878406-001 HPE 25GBPS Short Wave SFP28 Transceiver Module

Highlights of HPE 878406-001 SFP28 Optical Transceiver  

The HPE 878406-001 is a high-performance 25Gb SFP28 short-wave optical transceiver designed for enterprise and data center networking. Built for reliable, low-latency communication, this single-pack module supports multi-mode fiber connectivity and consistent throughput in demanding environments.

General Identification

• Manufacturer: HPE
• Part Number: 878406-001
• Product Type: Optical Transceiver

25GbE Short Wave Networking Capabilities

• Supports 25 Gigabit Ethernet based on IEEE 802.3 25GBASE-SR standards
• Optimized for short-range, high-speed data transmission
• Engineered for full-duplex operation only, ensuring stable performance

Port Configuration and Interface Details

• Single LC duplex optical port for 25GbE connectivity
• Industry-standard LC connector type for broad compatibility
• SFP28 form factor for seamless integration with supported HPE hardware

Optical and Fiber Characteristics

• Operating wavelength of 850 nm for short-wave optical signaling
• Designed for multi-mode fiber deployments
• Compatible with OM3 and OM4 fiber optic cables

Supported Transmission Distances

• Up to 70 meters over OM3 multi-mode fiber
• Up to 100 meters over OM4 multi-mode fiber

Fiber Patch Cord Recommendations

• Use Ultra Physical Contact (UPC) polished fiber connectors
• Angled Physical Contact (APC) connectors are not supported

Physical Dimensions and Build

• Compact design measuring 2.19 × 0.54 × 0.47 inches
• Metric dimensions: 55.7 × 13.8 × 11.9 cm
• Lightweight construction at approximately 0.04 lb (20 g)

Environmental and Operating Conditions

• Operating temperature range from 32°F to 158°F (0°C to 70°C)
• Non-operating temperature tolerance from -4°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C)
• Operating humidity between 5% and 85%, non-condensing
• Designed to function at altitudes up to 10,000 ft (3 km)

Power Efficiency and Consumption

• Typical power usage of 0.7 watts for energy-efficient operation
• Maximum power draw capped at 0.8 watts
• Low power profile helps reduce overall system energy costs

Overview of HPE 25GB Optical Networking Components

The HPE 878406-001 25Gb SFP28 Short Wave 1-pack Pull Tab Optical Transceiver belongs to a specialized category of high-performance optical networking components engineered for enterprise data centers, service providers, and cloud-scale infrastructures. This category focuses on short-range, high-speed optical connectivity that enables efficient data transmission across switches, routers, and server adapters. Products in this segment are designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern network architectures where bandwidth density, low latency, and operational reliability are critical to business continuity and scalability.

Within this category, SFP28 short wave optical transceivers are widely adopted for 25 Gigabit Ethernet deployments, offering a balanced combination of speed, energy efficiency, and cost effectiveness. These components are specifically optimized for multi-mode fiber environments and are commonly deployed in top-of-rack, end-of-row, and spine-leaf network designs. The HPE 878406-001 model exemplifies the design philosophy of this category by integrating precision optics, standardized form factors, and enhanced usability features such as the pull tab mechanism.

25Gb SFP28 Transceiver Technology  

The category of 25Gb SFP28 optical transceivers represents a significant evolution from earlier 10Gb SFP+ technologies. By doubling the data rate while maintaining a compact footprint, SFP28 modules allow organizations to upgrade network throughput without overhauling existing physical infrastructure. The HPE 878406-001 transceiver operates within this technological framework, supporting 25 Gigabit Ethernet signaling over short wave optical wavelengths typically centered around 850 nanometers.

SFP28 transceivers in this category are engineered to comply with industry standards such as IEEE 802.3 and MSA specifications, ensuring interoperability across compatible HPE networking equipment. The use of short wave optics makes these transceivers ideal for short-distance connections within data centers, where multi-mode fiber cabling is prevalent. This category emphasizes consistency in signal integrity, thermal stability, and mechanical durability to support continuous, high-volume data transfer.

Short Wave Optical Transmission Characteristics

Short wave optical transceivers, including the HPE 878406-001, utilize vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers optimized for short-reach communication. This category is designed to deliver reliable performance over distances typically extending up to 70 meters on OM3 fiber and up to 100 meters on OM4 fiber. These characteristics make short wave transceivers particularly suitable for intra-data center connectivity, where equipment racks are often positioned in close proximity.

The emphasis on short wave transmission within this category allows for lower power consumption compared to long-range optical solutions. Reduced power draw contributes to improved energy efficiency and lower operational costs, which is a key consideration for large-scale deployments. The HPE 878406-001 transceiver reflects these advantages by maintaining stable optical output and consistent signal quality across supported distances.

Single-Pack Deployment Model

The one-pack configuration of the HPE 878406-001 places it within a category that caters to precise deployment needs rather than bulk installations. Single-pack optical transceivers are often chosen for targeted upgrades, replacements, or incremental network expansions. This approach allows network administrators to manage inventory more efficiently while maintaining flexibility in procurement and deployment strategies.

This category prioritizes packaging that protects the optical components during handling and transportation while simplifying installation processes. The single-pack format aligns with environments where specific port upgrades or maintenance tasks are required without committing to large quantities of identical modules.

Pull Tab Design and Operational Usability

A defining characteristic of the HPE 878406-001 category is the inclusion of a pull tab mechanism. This design feature enhances the usability of SFP28 transceivers in dense networking environments where space constraints can make module insertion and removal challenging. Pull tab designs are especially beneficial in high-density switch configurations, allowing technicians to safely and efficiently manage optical modules without disrupting adjacent connections.

The pull tab category focuses on minimizing physical strain on both the transceiver and the host port. By providing a controlled grip point, the pull tab reduces the risk of accidental damage during maintenance activities. This design philosophy supports long-term reliability and simplifies routine network operations, particularly in environments that demand frequent reconfiguration or hardware refresh cycles.

High-Density Data Center Compatibility

Optical transceivers with pull tab features are commonly deployed in data centers that prioritize port density and efficient airflow management. The HPE 878406-001 fits seamlessly into this category, supporting compact switch designs without compromising accessibility. Network operators benefit from improved serviceability, which directly impacts uptime and operational efficiency.

This category also addresses ergonomic considerations, acknowledging that ease of handling contributes to faster maintenance windows and reduced risk of human error. The pull tab design is an integral part of this user-centric approach to optical transceiver development.

HPE-Certified Optical Transceiver Category

The HPE 878406-001 belongs to a category of HPE-certified optical transceivers that are rigorously tested for compatibility and performance within HPE networking ecosystems. Certification ensures that these transceivers meet stringent quality standards and function reliably with HPE switches, adapters, and network interface cards. This category is particularly important for enterprises that rely on vendor-supported configurations to maintain warranty coverage and technical support eligibility.

HPE-certified transceivers are designed to integrate seamlessly with HPE network management tools, enabling accurate monitoring of optical parameters such as temperature, voltage, and transmit power. This level of integration enhances visibility into network health and simplifies troubleshooting processes. The category emphasizes end-to-end reliability, from physical connectivity to management-layer interoperability.

Interoperability and Compliance Assurance

Within this category, strict adherence to industry standards ensures consistent interoperability across supported hardware platforms. The HPE 878406-001 transceiver aligns with this objective by conforming to established electrical and optical specifications. Compliance reduces the risk of compatibility issues and supports predictable performance across diverse network topologies.

This category also addresses firmware-level integration, ensuring that transceivers are recognized and properly configured by host devices. Such integration is essential for maintaining stable link establishment and optimal throughput in enterprise environments.

25 Gigabit Ethernet Network Architecture Enablement

The category encompassing the HPE 878406-001 plays a pivotal role in enabling modern 25 Gigabit Ethernet architectures. As organizations transition from legacy 10Gb networks to higher-speed infrastructures, 25Gb solutions offer a cost-effective path to increased bandwidth without the complexity of 40Gb or 100Gb deployments. This category supports scalable network designs that accommodate growing data volumes and evolving application demands.

25Gb SFP28 transceivers are commonly used in server-to-switch connections, aggregation layers, and spine-leaf architectures. The HPE 878406-001 is optimized for these use cases, providing consistent performance and low latency that align with the requirements of virtualization, cloud computing, and high-performance computing workloads.

Scalability  

Products in this category are designed with scalability in mind, allowing organizations to incrementally upgrade network capacity as demand increases. The standardized SFP28 form factor ensures compatibility with a wide range of networking equipment, reducing the risk of obsolescence. The HPE 878406-001 exemplifies this forward-looking approach by supporting current 25Gb standards while maintaining alignment with evolving network design principles.

This category also supports mixed-speed environments, enabling coexistence with 10Gb and higher-speed links through appropriate network design. Such flexibility is essential for organizations managing transitional phases in their infrastructure lifecycle.

Optical Signal Integrity and Performance Stability

The category of short wave SFP28 transceivers emphasizes consistent optical signal integrity under varying operational conditions. The HPE 878406-001 is engineered to maintain stable performance across supported temperature ranges, ensuring reliable data transmission in controlled data center environments. This focus on stability is critical for minimizing packet loss, retransmissions, and latency fluctuations.

Advanced manufacturing processes and quality control measures define this category, resulting in transceivers that deliver predictable performance over extended service lifetimes. Optical components are carefully calibrated to ensure accurate wavelength output and receiver sensitivity, contributing to robust link performance.

Thermal Management Considerations

Thermal efficiency is a key consideration within this category, as high-density deployments can generate significant heat. The HPE 878406-001 is designed to operate efficiently within the thermal envelopes of modern networking equipment. Effective heat dissipation supports sustained performance and reduces the likelihood of thermal-related failures.

This category also emphasizes compatibility with system-level cooling strategies, ensuring that transceivers do not impede airflow or contribute disproportionately to thermal load. Such considerations are essential for maintaining overall data center efficiency.

Operational Reliability  

Optical transceivers in this category are selected not only for performance but also for long-term reliability and lifecycle value. The HPE 878406-001 is intended for continuous operation in mission-critical environments, where downtime can have significant business impacts. This category prioritizes durable materials, robust assembly, and thorough testing to ensure dependable operation over time.

Lifecycle value is further enhanced through vendor support, documentation, and compatibility assurances. HPE-certified transceivers benefit from comprehensive support resources, contributing to lower total cost of ownership and improved return on investment.

Multi-Mode Fiber Infrastructure Alignment

The short wave SFP28 transceiver category is closely aligned with multi-mode fiber infrastructure commonly deployed in enterprise and data center environments. The HPE 878406-001 is optimized for use with OM3 and OM4 fiber types, which offer high bandwidth capabilities over short distances. This alignment ensures efficient utilization of existing cabling investments while delivering enhanced network performance.

By leveraging multi-mode fiber, this category supports cost-effective optical connectivity that balances performance and affordability. The widespread availability of compatible fiber cabling further reinforces the practicality of short wave transceivers in modern network designs.

Enterprise and Cloud Use Case Alignment

The category encompassing the HPE 878406-001 addresses the needs of both enterprise and cloud service providers. In enterprise environments, these transceivers support internal data center connectivity, disaster recovery infrastructures, and high-speed access to critical applications. In cloud and service provider contexts, they enable scalable, high-density network fabrics that support multi-tenant workloads and dynamic traffic patterns.

This versatility reflects the category’s focus on adaptability and performance consistency across diverse deployment scenarios. The HPE 878406-001 is positioned to meet the demands of organizations seeking reliable 25Gb optical connectivity as part of their broader digital transformation initiatives.

Workload Optimization and Network Efficiency

By delivering low-latency, high-throughput connections, this category contributes to optimized workload performance. Applications such as virtualization platforms, containerized environments, and data analytics benefit from the increased bandwidth and reduced congestion enabled by 25Gb SFP28 transceivers. The HPE 878406-001 supports these outcomes through its robust optical design and HPE-certified integration.

Network efficiency is further enhanced through reduced cabling complexity and improved port utilization, aligning with modern best practices in network design and management.

Category Positioning  

The HPE 878406-001 25Gb SFP28 Short Wave 1-pack Pull Tab Optical Transceiver occupies a strategic position within the broader ecosystem of modern networking components. This category bridges the gap between legacy lower-speed solutions and emerging ultra-high-speed technologies, offering a practical and widely adopted option for contemporary network deployments.