854196-001 HPE Ethernet Pass-Thru Module

The HPE 854196-001 10Gb Ethernet Expansion Module

The HPE 854196-001 10Gb Ethernet Pass-Thru Module for C-Class Blade System is a high-performance connectivity expansion component designed to deliver direct, low-latency network access within enterprise blade server environments. Built for integration into Hewlett Packard Enterprise C-Class Blade System enclosures, this pass-thru module plays a crucial role in simplifying network architecture while maintaining high-speed data transmission capabilities. It provides a seamless physical layer connection between blade servers and external network infrastructure through 16 ports supporting SFP and SFP+ transceiver interfaces.

Integration with Blade System Networking

Within the HPE C-Class Blade System architecture, networking components are designed to optimize space, power efficiency, and performance. The HPE 854196-001 module fits into the interconnect bays of the enclosure, replacing traditional switch modules with direct pass-through connectivity. This design allows each server blade to communicate externally without internal switching logic, ensuring a clean and direct data path.

Physical Layer Connectivity Design

The module operates strictly at the physical layer of networking, meaning it does not perform packet switching or routing functions. Instead, it maps internal blade connections directly to external ports. This approach reduces complexity, minimizes potential points of failure, and provides a highly transparent networking environment that is especially useful in environments where external switches already provide advanced network intelligence and policy control.

16-Port SFP and SFP+ Interface Design

The module provides 16 individual ports that support both SFP and SFP+ transceivers, enabling flexible connectivity options for 1GbE and 10GbE environments. This flexibility allows organizations to deploy a mixed-speed network infrastructure depending on workload requirements, legacy system compatibility, and future upgrade paths.

Support for Fiber and Copper Transceivers

The SFP and SFP+ compatibility allows the module to support a variety of transceiver types, including fiber optic connections for long-distance, high-bandwidth communication, as well as copper-based DAC (Direct Attach Copper) cables for short-range, cost-effective deployments. This versatility makes the module suitable for a wide range of data center topologies.

Non-Blocking Architecture Benefits

The module’s architecture ensures that each port operates independently without internal contention. This non-blocking behavior allows full bandwidth utilization on all active connections simultaneously. As a result, network traffic remains stable even under heavy load conditions typical in enterprise-scale deployments.

Reduced Internal Complexity

By removing active switching components from the enclosure, the HPE 854196-001 reduces the number of potential failure points. This simplification leads to improved hardware reliability and easier troubleshooting processes when diagnosing network issues.

Power Efficiency Advantages

Energy consumption is reduced because the module does not require the same level of processing power as a managed switch. This makes it an attractive option for organizations seeking to optimize data center power usage and operational costs.

Integration with C-Class Enclosures

The module is specifically designed for HPE C-Class Blade System enclosures, ensuring seamless physical and electrical compatibility. It fits into designated interconnect bays and aligns with existing blade server network interfaces without requiring structural modifications.

Blade Server Models

A wide range of HPE blade servers can utilize this module for external connectivity. This includes compute-optimized blades, general-purpose blades, and virtualization-optimized server configurations. The consistent interface model ensures compatibility across multiple generations of hardware.