QSFP-100G-SR1.2 Cisco 100G SR1.2 BiDi QSFP Transceiver Module

Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 QSFP Module Overview

The Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 QSFP Module is a high-performance optical transceiver designed for high-speed data networking. This module supports 100 Gigabit Ethernet (100GbE) standards and offers reliable, cost-effective solutions for businesses and organizations looking to scale their network infrastructure. With a focus on providing exceptional bandwidth, speed, and low latency, the QSFP-100G-SR1.2 is an ideal choice for data centers, enterprise networks, and telecommunications networks. Featuring a 100GBASE-SR Bidi (bidirectional) specification, this optical module is engineered to provide high-capacity performance over multi-mode fiber (MMF) networks.

Key Features of the Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 Module

• 100GbE Connectivity: The module supports high-speed 100 Gigabit Ethernet connections, delivering the bandwidth necessary for demanding network applications.
• Bidirectional (Bidi) Optics: The 100GBASE-SR Bidi design allows for bidirectional transmission over a single fiber pair, optimizing fiber utilization and reducing infrastructure costs.
• Compatibility: The QSFP-100G-SR1.2 is compatible with a variety of Cisco networking platforms, making it versatile for various deployments.
• Short-Range Connectivity: With a transmission distance of up to 70 meters over OM3 fiber and 100 meters over OM4 fiber, it is ideal for short-range, high-bandwidth applications.
• Energy Efficient: The module is designed to be power-efficient, ensuring lower operational costs and contributing to a greener network environment.

Applications of the QSFP-100G-SR1.2

The Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 module is widely used in several network configurations due to its high data transfer rates and versatile design. Some of the key applications include:

• Data Center Connectivity: The QSFP-100G-SR1.2 provides fast, reliable links between switches, routers, and servers within large data center environments.
• Enterprise Networking: For enterprises requiring high-speed, low-latency connections across campus networks, this module is a perfect solution.
• Telecommunications Infrastructure: Service providers benefit from the QSFP-100G-SR1.2’s ability to handle large-scale traffic in optical networks.
• High-Performance Computing (HPC): It supports high-throughput workloads, making it a key component in data-intensive applications such as research, simulations, and machine learning.

Advantages of Bidirectional (Bidi) Optics

The 100GBASE-SR Bidi design in the Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 module offers several advantages over traditional multi-fiber optic transceivers. These include:

Improved Fiber Utilization

Traditional optical modules often require separate fibers for sending and receiving data. In contrast, bidirectional optics combine these functions onto a single fiber, effectively doubling the network’s fiber utilization. This enables network designers to optimize the use of available infrastructure, making it ideal for environments with limited fiber resources.

Cost Savings on Fiber Infrastructure

By utilizing a single fiber for both transmission and reception, the QSFP-100G-SR1.2 reduces the need for additional fiber cables. This can result in significant cost savings, especially in environments where the cost of running fiber is high. Additionally, the module helps decrease space requirements by reducing the number of cables and connectors required for a high-performance network.

Longer Reach and Increased Performance

The bidirectional nature of this module allows it to offer increased performance over longer distances, with the added benefit of reducing signal degradation, especially in multi-mode fiber networks. This design ensures that high-speed connections are maintained across larger areas, allowing for more flexible network topologies.

Networking and Data Transfer Standards Supported

The Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 module is fully compliant with several industry standards, ensuring interoperability with a broad range of devices and systems. Key standards include:

IEEE 802.3bm Standard

This module adheres to the IEEE 802.3bm standard for 100GbE, which ensures that it meets the technical requirements for reliable Ethernet communications. The standard covers physical layer specifications, data encoding methods, and data integrity mechanisms to maintain high-speed, low-latency connections across optical fiber links.

100GBASE-SR Bidi Standard

The Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 is specifically designed for 100GBASE-SR Bidi, a specification developed for short-range, bidirectional communication over multi-mode fiber. This standard defines the optical signal characteristics and ensures that the module delivers consistent performance and reliable connectivity for high-speed applications.

Multi-Mode Fiber (MMF) Compliance

Supporting multi-mode fiber (MMF) transmission, the QSFP-100G-SR1.2 leverages the properties of MMF to deliver high-speed data transmission over shorter distances, making it suitable for intra-data center connections or between equipment racks. The module is compatible with OM3 and OM4 MMF, providing flexibility in fiber choice depending on the network requirements and distance constraints.

Physical Specifications and Form Factor

The Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 module has a compact and efficient form factor that helps optimize space in data centers and telecommunications equipment. This form factor, known as QSFP (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable), is a widely used design in high-speed networking modules and is recognized for its versatility and ease of integration into various networking devices.

Connector and Cable Type

The Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 features an LC connector, which is commonly used for high-density installations. The module is designed for use with multi-mode fiber cables that support OM3 or OM4 performance. It is important to note that the LC connector is a standard in fiber optic connections, ensuring broad compatibility across different platforms and network equipment.

Benefits of Upgrading to 100G Network Speeds

Upgrading to 100G speeds offers a range of benefits for businesses and network administrators. As data traffic increases, the need for higher bandwidth becomes more pressing. The Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 enables organizations to meet the growing demands of high-speed applications and services.

Scalability for Future Growth

By incorporating 100G Ethernet into their networks, organizations can prepare for future scalability. The increased bandwidth capacity allows businesses to grow their networks without requiring a complete overhaul of existing infrastructure. This is especially beneficial in data centers, where traffic volume is expected to increase exponentially in the coming years.

Enhanced Performance for Cloud and Virtualization

The Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 is well-suited for cloud environments, which rely on high-speed interconnects for quick data transfer between servers, storage, and network equipment. It is also optimized for virtualized environments, where network performance is critical for running multiple virtual machines and handling large-scale workloads.

Reduced Latency

Latency is a key factor in network performance, especially in applications that require real-time communication or data processing. The Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 minimizes latency, providing the high-speed connectivity necessary for latency-sensitive applications, such as financial trading, real-time analytics, and media streaming.

Integration with Cisco Networking Solutions

As part of Cisco's extensive lineup of networking products, the QSFP-100G-SR1.2 module is fully compatible with Cisco’s range of switches, routers, and other networking equipment. This ensures seamless integration into existing Cisco-based network environments. Cisco’s industry-leading technology also offers superior reliability, security, and scalability, making it a trusted choice for enterprises and service providers.

Compatibility with Cisco Switches and Routers

The QSFP-100G-SR1.2 is designed to be compatible with a wide range of Cisco switches, such as the Cisco Nexus 9000 series and Cisco Catalyst 9000 series. It also integrates with Cisco routers that support 100G connectivity, providing flexibility for customers to choose the best networking solutions for their needs.

Seamless Software Integration

Cisco’s software platforms, such as Cisco DNA Center and Cisco ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure), offer powerful network management and automation features that complement the QSFP-100G-SR1.2 module. This integration enables businesses to monitor and manage their high-speed networks efficiently, ensuring optimal performance and uptime.

Conclusion

The Cisco QSFP-100G-SR1.2 QSFP module is a top-tier optical transceiver module that is perfect for high-speed data networks. Whether you are building a data center, upgrading an enterprise network, or enhancing a telecommunications infrastructure, this module offers the performance, efficiency, and scalability needed for today’s demanding applications. With its bidirectional optics, short-range capabilities, and seamless integration with Cisco products, it is the ideal solution for organizations looking to stay ahead of the curve in networking technology.