Q28-100G-LR4-G3 Dell 100GBE QSFP28 Transceiver

Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 100GbE QSFP28 Transceiver Overview

The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 100GbE QSFP28 10km LR4 LC SMF Transceiver is a high-performance optical module engineered to support 100 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity across long-distance single-mode fiber infrastructure. Designed for enterprise data centers, cloud computing platforms, high-performance computing environments, and service provider networks, this QSFP28 transceiver delivers reliable 100GbE throughput with extended reach capabilities up to 10 kilometers. By leveraging LR4 optical technology and LC duplex connectivity, this module enables seamless integration into modern high-bandwidth switching and routing environments.

As network architectures evolve toward spine-leaf topologies and software-defined infrastructures, 100GbE connectivity has become a fundamental requirement for scalable, low-latency communication. The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 optical transceiver plays a critical role in enabling long-range optical interconnects between core switches, aggregation layers, and distributed data center facilities. Its support for QSFP28 form factor ensures high port density, while the LR4 optical standard ensures stable and consistent performance over single-mode fiber links.

100GbE QSFP28 Transceiver Category

The 100GbE QSFP28 optical transceiver category represents a core component of next-generation networking infrastructure. QSFP28 modules are designed to provide 100 Gigabit per second data rates while maintaining compact dimensions suitable for high-density switch and router platforms. Within this category, LR4 modules are specifically tailored for long-reach single-mode fiber deployments, enabling connectivity over distances up to 10km without signal regeneration.

As data volumes grow exponentially due to virtualization, artificial intelligence workloads, cloud-native applications, and edge computing, enterprises require robust optical interconnect solutions. The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 meets these requirements by delivering deterministic performance, low power consumption, and reliable optical transmission across metropolitan-scale data center environments.

Role of QSFP28 in Modern Data Centers

QSFP28 modules have become standard in 100GbE switching platforms because they support four 25Gbps lanes combined into a single 100Gbps data stream. This design enables efficient signal multiplexing while maintaining compact physical dimensions. In large-scale deployments, QSFP28 transceivers reduce port congestion and improve airflow management within high-density chassis environments.

The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 supports seamless insertion into QSFP28-compatible switch ports, making it suitable for top-of-rack, end-of-row, aggregation, and core network layers. Its compatibility with enterprise-grade networking hardware ensures simplified integration into existing infrastructures.

Importance of LR4 Optical Technology

LR4 optical modules utilize four distinct wavelengths transmitted over a single pair of single-mode fiber strands. This wavelength-division multiplexing technique enables 100Gbps throughput while maintaining long-range performance up to 10 kilometers. LR4 technology is particularly advantageous for inter-building connectivity, campus environments, and metropolitan data center interconnects.

With the Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3, organizations benefit from stable long-haul connectivity without requiring complex amplification equipment. The module’s design ensures signal integrity, low bit error rates, and consistent optical power levels across extended fiber distances.

Key Specifications and Optical Performance

Form Factor and Physical Interface

The QSFP28 form factor is engineered to maximize density while maintaining thermal efficiency. The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 adheres to industry-standard QSFP28 mechanical specifications, ensuring hot-swappable functionality and simplified maintenance. The module integrates seamlessly into high-speed Ethernet ports without requiring specialized tools or downtime.

LC Duplex Connector Interface

This transceiver utilizes a duplex LC connector interface optimized for single-mode fiber connections. LC connectors are widely adopted in enterprise optical environments due to their compact size and reliable alignment characteristics. The use of LC connectivity allows easy integration into structured cabling systems and optical patch panels.

Single-Mode Fiber Compatibility

The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 is designed for deployment over single-mode fiber, which provides lower attenuation and longer transmission distances compared to multimode alternatives. Single-mode fiber is ideal for extended campus networks and data center interconnect applications requiring stable signal propagation across kilometers of fiber infrastructure.

Distance and Reach Capabilities

Supporting distances up to 10 kilometers, this LR4 transceiver enables high-speed interconnections between geographically separated network segments. Whether linking data centers across a business campus or connecting facilities within a metropolitan region, the module ensures consistent throughput and minimal signal degradation.

Optical Wavelength Transmission

LR4 modules operate using four CWDM wavelengths typically centered around 1310nm. This approach allows multiplexing of four separate data lanes onto a single fiber pair. The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 maintains precise wavelength control to ensure signal integrity and compliance with 100GbE standards.

Signal Integrity and Error Performance

Maintaining low bit error rates is critical for high-speed Ethernet communication. The transceiver is engineered with advanced digital diagnostics monitoring features that provide real-time visibility into temperature, voltage, transmit power, and receive power levels. These capabilities help administrators proactively manage network reliability and performance.

Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases

Data Center Interconnect

One of the primary use cases for the Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 is data center interconnect. Organizations operating multiple data centers often require secure, high-bandwidth links for workload replication, backup synchronization, and application distribution. The 10km reach capability supports inter-facility connectivity without additional signal boosters.

Enterprise Core Networking

Large enterprises with distributed buildings or campuses can deploy LR4 QSFP28 modules to connect core switches and aggregation layers. By using single-mode fiber infrastructure, network architects can design resilient, scalable backbones capable of supporting mission-critical applications.

Cloud and Hyperscale Environments

Cloud service providers and hyperscale data center operators require high-density 100GbE connectivity to handle virtualization traffic, storage replication, and AI workloads. The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 ensures reliable optical links within large-scale switching fabrics and spine-leaf architectures.

Telecommunications and Service Providers

Service providers benefit from long-range 100GbE optical modules for metropolitan and regional connectivity. LR4 technology supports high-capacity transmission across fiber networks that span multiple distribution points, enhancing bandwidth availability for customers.

Performance Efficiency and Thermal Management

Power Consumption Optimization

Energy efficiency is a critical factor in dense networking environments. The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 is engineered to operate within specified power consumption parameters that align with QSFP28 standards. Efficient power usage reduces operational costs and supports sustainability initiatives in modern data centers.

Heat Dissipation and Reliability

High-speed optical modules generate heat during operation. Proper thermal design ensures long-term stability and reduced risk of component degradation. This transceiver incorporates thermal management features that maintain optimal operating temperatures within high-density switch chassis.

Compatibility and Standards Compliance

IEEE 802.3ba Compliance

The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 adheres to IEEE 802.3ba standards for 100GbE optical transmission. Compliance ensures interoperability across compatible networking platforms and adherence to performance specifications defined by industry standards.

Integration with Dell Networking Platforms

Engineered for compatibility with Dell enterprise networking hardware, this transceiver integrates seamlessly with supported switches and routers. Proper compatibility reduces deployment risks and ensures consistent firmware recognition within the host device.

Hot-Swappable Design

The module supports hot-swappable installation, allowing administrators to replace or upgrade optical connections without powering down network equipment. This feature minimizes service interruptions and enhances operational efficiency.

Network Scalability and Future-Ready Infrastructure

Supporting High-Bandwidth Applications

Emerging applications such as real-time analytics, machine learning clusters, and distributed storage systems demand substantial network bandwidth. The Dell Q28-100G-LR4-G3 provides the necessary throughput to accommodate growing data volumes while maintaining predictable latency.

Enabling Spine-Leaf Architectures

Spine-leaf network topologies rely on high-speed links between spine switches and leaf nodes. Deploying 100GbE LR4 transceivers ensures consistent inter-switch communication and scalable fabric expansion as infrastructure demands increase.