Cisco 10-3227-03 SFP28 25GBase-SR MMF 850nm Transceiver Module

Cisco 10-3227-03 SFP28 25GBase-SR MMF 850 nm Transceiver Module Overview

The Cisco 10-3227-03 SFP28 25GBase-SR MMF 850 nm transceiver module serves short-reach 25 Gigabit Ethernet links inside modern data centers and enterprise aggregation layers. Built around the SFP28 form factor and optimized for multimode fiber, this optical module enables high-density 25 GbE switching and server connectivity with low power draw, proven interoperability, and hot-swap convenience. Because it operates at 850 nm with a VCSEL light source, it is tailored for high-performance short-range runs across structured cabling that uses OM3 or OM4 multimode fiber, making it a staple building block of spine-leaf fabrics, top-of-rack designs, and campus cores seeking to balance cost, simplicity, and bandwidth.

This category page highlights the key capabilities, common deployment scenarios, best-practice design notes, cabling guidance, lifecycle and support considerations, and purchasing tips for organizations standardizing on the Cisco 10-3227-03 SFP28 25GBase-SR. Whether you are refreshing server access links, migrating from 10 GbE to 25 GbE, or building out a new cloud-ready network, the information below will help you specify, deploy, and maintain these optics with confidence.

Key Use Cases at a Glance

• Server access: High-density 25 GbE NIC uplinks from servers to top-of-rack (ToR) switches.
• Switch interconnects: Short-run 25 GbE links between ToR and end-of-row (EoR) or aggregation switches within the same room.
• Campus distribution: High-speed interconnects across wiring closets using existing OM3/OM4 plant when distances are modest.
• Storage and hyperconverged: 25 GbE connectivity for iSCSI/NFS/RDMA over Converged Ethernet (RoCE) in compact clusters.
• Test/dev and labs: Flexible, hot-swappable optics for quickly reconfiguring 25 GbE links during staging or validation.

Technical Specifications and Optical Characteristics

While actual specifications vary by manufacturing revision, the Cisco 10-3227-03 SFP28 25GBase-SR module is designed to meet the SFP28 25GBase-SR optical interface standard and typical data center requirements. The following characteristics are commonly associated with this optical category:

Optical Interface

• Wavelength: nominal 850 nm (short-wave), leveraging VCSEL technology for efficiency at short distances.
• Fiber type: Multimode fiber (MMF), typically OM3 or OM4; supports legacy OM2 for very short jumpers where permitted by link budget.
• Connector: Duplex LC interface for straightforward, widely available patching.
• Reach: up to ~70 m over OM3 and up to ~100 m over OM4 under standard conditions; exact distances depend on channel insertion loss and modal bandwidth.

Data and Electrical Interface

• Line rate: 25.78125 Gb/s typical for 25 Gigabit Ethernet.
• Host interface: SFP28 electrical connector compliant with industry MSA, designed for 25 GbE ports on Cisco switches and NICs.
• FEC considerations: Many platforms enable RS-FEC for 25 GbE to improve link margin; enablement is platform-dependent and may be automatic or configurable.
• Backward operation: Certain environments may operate at 10 Gb/s when both host port and optics support rate adaptation; confirm platform support before planning mixed-speed links.

Environmental and Power

• Operating temperature (typical commercial): 0 °C to 70 °C at the module case; observe switch airflow and thermal design to maintain headroom.
• Power consumption: commonly low (on the order of <1 W to ~1.2 W depending on revision), contributing to dense deployments and reduced heat.
• Hot-swappable: yes; modules can be inserted and removed without powering down the host system, following ESD and handling best practices.
• Digital diagnostics: DOM/DDM support for monitoring Tx/Rx power, temperature, supply voltage, and bias current.

Standards Alignment

The 25GBase-SR optical specification is defined for short-reach links over MMF. Cisco’s 10-3227-03 SFP28 module is designed to interoperate within platforms that support 25 GbE SR optics and adheres to the SFP28 form-factor Multi-Source Agreement (MSA). Always review your specific switch or adapter software release notes for interoperability matrices and any platform-specific restrictions.

Deployment Scenarios and Topologies

Because 25 GbE offers a better cost-per-gigabit than 10 GbE and avoids the cabling bulk associated with 40 GbE parallel optics, 25GBase-SR modules are prevalent in modern designs. Below are canonical topologies that showcase how the 10-3227-03 fits in.

Leaf-Spine Fabrics

In leaf-spine architectures, servers connect to leaf switches using 25 GbE. The Cisco 10-3227-03 is ideal for server-to-leaf connections where rack-level distances are usually within a few meters to tens of meters. Using duplex LC OM4 jumpers keeps patching simple, while structured cabling in the row supports aggregation uplinks at higher speeds. Because 25 GbE lanes are single-lane serial, the optics avoid the complexity of parallel MPO breakouts used by 40 GbE SR4, reducing both costs and operational overhead.

Top-of-Rack to End-of-Row

For operators standardizing on 25 GbE from the access edge up to aggregation, SFP28 SR links can connect ToR units to EoR or middle-of-row aggregation switches placed within the same data hall. With OM4 fiber trunks and LC cassettes, organizations enjoy clean cable management and predictable performance. The reach profile—up to ~100 m on OM4—comfortably spans most rows in contemporary facilities.

Hyperconverged and Storage Fabrics

Hyperconverged clusters (HCI) and scale-out storage frequently adopt 25 GbE for east-west traffic. The low latency and solid signal integrity of short-wave SR optics, combined with RS-FEC on the host, enable reliable links for iSCSI, NFS, SMB Direct (where supported), and RoCE deployments. Administrators often prefer optical patching over copper direct-attach cables (DACs) when rack layouts are fluid or when airflow concerns suggest keeping heavy twinax cables to a minimum.

Campus Core and Distribution

In high-end campus environments seeking to upgrade from 10 GbE, the Cisco 10-3227-03 allows reuse of existing OM3/OM4 fiber between distribution and core switches, provided distances are within SR limits. This approach preserves budget while boosting backbone capacity for Wi-Fi 6/6E/7 access, multi-gigabit uplinks, and application backhaul.

Cabling Guidance and Best Practices

Proper cabling ensures consistent performance and predictability. The guidelines below align with typical 25GBase-SR deployments.

Fiber Type and Distances

• OM3 (50/125 µm MMF): plan for ~70 m maximum under standard link budgets; verify channel insertion loss and modal bandwidth.
• OM4 (50/125 µm MMF): plan for up to ~100 m maximum; suitable for most row-to-row runs and patching through cassettes.
• OM4+ or enhanced OM4 may offer additional margin; rely on vendor specs and loss calculators rather than assuming extended reach.
• Patch cords: Use low-loss LC-LC duplex jumpers with proper polarity (A-to-B).

Connector Quality and Cleanliness

Short-wave optics are sensitive to end-face contamination. Follow an Inspect-Clean-Inspect routine before mating LC connectors. Keep dust caps on transceivers and patch cords when not in use, and avoid touching ferrules. Even minor debris can increase insertion loss and back reflection, reducing link margin and potentially causing intermittent errors.

Polarity and Patching

Ensure A-B duplex polarity from transmitter to receiver in both directions. When patching through cassettes or panels, maintain polarity standards consistently across the channel. Label patch fields clearly, and document patch paths to simplify moves, adds, and changes (MACs).

Link Budget Considerations

25GBase-SR link budgets assume a limited number of mated pairs and defined insertion loss. Keep total connector count minimal, prefer low-loss components, and avoid unnecessary couplings. If your structured cabling introduces multiple cross-connects, calculate worst-case loss and compare to the optic’s launch power and receiver sensitivity, leaving margin for aging and temperature drift.

Platform Compatibility and Interoperability Notes

The Cisco 10-3227-03 SFP28 25GBase-SR is intended for Cisco platforms that support 25 GbE SR optics in the SFP28 form factor. Compatibility is subject to software versions, transceiver EEPROM coding, and hardware revision levels. Review your switch, router, or server adapter data sheets and release notes for supported transceiver lists. When designing multi-vendor links, ensure both ends support 25GBase-SR over duplex LC MMF and that any required FEC settings are aligned.

Auto-Negotiation and FEC

25 GbE ports may support auto-negotiation and FEC capabilities that affect link stability. If your platform exposes FEC configuration (e.g., RS-FEC on/off), follow vendor guidance. RS-FEC is often recommended to protect against burst errors and to extend link margin, especially on longer OM3 channels. Consistent settings on both ends are essential to avoid link bring-up issues.

Running at 10 GbE

Some environments run SFP28 SR optics at 10 GbE rates when both the port and the optic permit rate adaptation. Confirm with platform documentation; do not assume universal support. If 10 GbE operation is required broadly, consider using dedicated 10GBase-SR SFP+ optics to simplify operations.

Performance, Reliability, and Monitoring

The 10-3227-03 supports digital optical monitoring (DOM/DDM), enabling administrators to observe Tx power, Rx power, temperature, voltage, and bias currents via the network OS. Proactive monitoring helps predict failures and validate cabling health.

DOM Thresholds and Alerts

• Optical power: Track receive levels to identify marginal channels caused by dirty connectors or excessive loss.
• Temperature: Hot aisles and high-density chassis can push optics toward thermal thresholds; ensure adequate airflow.
• Bias current: Rising laser bias over time can indicate aging or stress; investigate jumps beyond normal drift.

Error Counters and KPIs

Monitor interface error counters—CRC errors, symbol errors, FEC stats (if exposed)—to catch subtle degradation. In controlled environments, baseline counters after install and compare periodically. A sudden increase in alignment errors often points to a patching issue or degrading connector.

Migration from 10 GbE to 25 GbE

Organizations moving from 10 GbE server access can often preserve their multimode fiber plant. The Cisco 10-3227-03, paired with SFP28 ports, provides a speed uplift with minimal physical changes. Consider the following migration steps:

1. Assess fiber routes: Inventory OM3/OM4 channels, count mated pairs, and measure insertion loss where possible.
2. Validate optics inventory: Standardize on the 10-3227-03 for short-reach 25 GbE to simplify spares and maintenance.
3. Stage FEC settings: Align FEC policies across switches and NICs prior to cutover.
4. Run pilot links: Enable a small subset, monitor DOM values and errors, then scale out.
5. Document and label: Update patch panels, logical diagrams, and port descriptions as you transition racks.

Short-Wave SR over Alternative Options

The 10-3227-03 SFP28 25GBase-SR occupies a sweet spot between performance, simplicity, and cost. Here’s how it compares to neighboring technologies:

SR vs. DAC (Twinax Copper)

• Reach: DAC typically supports very short distances (1–5 m, occasionally 7 m), while SR supports tens of meters to ~100 m on OM4.
• Flexibility: SR with duplex LC patches through structured cabling allows flexible rack layouts; DACs are point-to-point and bulky.
• Thermals and airflow: Optical patching is lighter and less obstructive than thick copper assemblies.

SR vs. LR (Single-Mode)

• Cost: SR optics and MMF are generally more cost-effective for short links; LR shines at hundreds of meters to kilometers.
• Operations: MMF with LC is ubiquitous in data centers; quick to patch, easy to manage for short runs.
• Future-proofing: If long-range growth is anticipated, single-mode may be strategic; otherwise, SR keeps TCO low.

SR vs. Breakout Designs

Unlike parallel optics that split lanes (e.g., 100 GbE to 4×25 GbE), SFP28 SR operates on a single serial lane end-to-end, simplifying optical paths and reducing the need for MPO components when only 25 GbE is required.

Capacity Planning and Economics

25 GbE offers an attractive cost-per-bit for east-west and access-layer traffic. When planning budgets:

• Standardize SKUs: Consolidate on the 10-3227-03 for SR needs to streamline spares and maintenance.
• Bundle purchases: Acquire optics in forecasted batches aligned to rack rollouts to minimize per-unit costs.
• Power and cooling: Account for ~1 W per module in thermal budgets; SR’s efficiency improves rack-level density.

Environmental Considerations

Data centers vary from cold aisle containment to free-air cooling. The 10-3227-03’s low power draw means less local heat, but proper airflow is still paramount. Ensure fan policies on the host switch are set appropriately and that cable management does not occlude intake paths around SFP28 cages.

Quality Assurance and Testing

Before production, lab validation reduces risk.

Functional Tests

• Loopback validation with LC loopback adapters to verify port behavior.
• Bit-error tests using traffic generators to stress the link at line rate.
• Thermal soak—operate optics under expected ambient to confirm stability.

Optical Power Verification

Use an optical power meter to measure Tx at the jumpers and Rx at the far end where accessible. Compare readings against nominal targets and ensure adequate margin.

Standard Temperature vs. Extended Temperature

Most data center deployments rely on commercial temperature modules (0–70 °C). If you operate in harsher environments (industrial, outdoor enclosures), consult for hardened variants. The 10-3227-03 is typically targeted at data center and enterprise gear rooms.

DOM-Enabled SKUs

DOM/DDM capability is critical for proactive monitoring. Ensure your operational tooling surfaces DOM values per interface, and confirm that your OS supports reading thresholds from the 10-3227-03.

Platform-Coded vs. Open Coding

Some optics are coded expressly for certain platforms. The 10-3227-03 is intended for Cisco platforms that expect Cisco coding. When mixing vendors, verify acceptance policies on each device to avoid unsupported transceiver warnings.

Safety, Storage, and Logistics

Storage and Transport

• Store optics in anti-static clamshells with dust plugs installed.
• Avoid high humidity and extreme temperatures during long-term storage.
• Label cartons with SKU, serials, and received date for inventory control.

On-Site Spares Strategy

Maintain a spare pool sized to the criticality of 25 GbE links. For dense ToR deployments, a 2–5% spare ratio per model is a common starting point, refined by observed failure rates and SLA requirements.

Design Patterns and Examples

Server Access at Scale

In a 40-rack pod, each rack may host 20 dual-port 25 GbE servers connected to redundant ToR switches. Standardizing on 10-3227-03 across all server NICs and ToR ports simplifies operations. Using color-coded OM4 jumpers for each fabric (e.g., blue for Fabric A, aqua for Fabric B) enhances visual management. DOM monitoring feeds into a single pane of glass, where alerts trigger on Rx power <–7 dBm (example threshold—check platform specifics).

Spine-Leaf Aggregation

While spines often run at 100/400 GbE, leaf uplinks to spines can still utilize 25 GbE in smaller fabrics or for non-critical pods. The 10-3227-03 delivers predictable performance without introducing MPO-based cabling. As growth demands, leaves can be upgraded to higher-speed QSFP ports while preserving SR optics at the server edge.

Sustainability Considerations

Opting for energy-efficient optics like the 10-3227-03 reduces cumulative power draw compared with older generations. Short-wave SFP28 modules typically consume around a watt, enabling dense deployments without significant thermal impact. Extend service life through proper cleaning and handling to minimize e-waste, and recycle end-of-life units in accordance with local directives.

Integration with Modern Workloads

25 GbE remains a sweet spot for virtualization clusters, container platforms, and AI/ML pipelines that do not yet demand 100 GbE at the node. The 10-3227-03 supports these workloads by providing:

• Predictable latency: Short optical paths and single-lane serial signaling minimize added latency.
• Cost efficiency: Affordable optics and cabling that scale cleanly across many nodes.
• Operational simplicity: Duplex LC patching aligns with existing skill sets; no MPO polarity puzzles for 25 GbE.

Risk Mitigation and Resilience

Redundant Paths

Design dual-homed server links across independent ToR switches, each equipped with 10-3227-03 optics on separate fibers. Leverage LACP with fast timers or active-active NIC teaming where supported. Keep patch cords physically separated to reduce common-cause failure risk.

Spare Strategy and Rapid Replacement

Store labeled, pre-tested spare 10-3227-03 units in each row or at least each data hall. Maintain a run-book that includes exact steps, expected LED states, and a post-swap verification script to ensure quick, consistent MTTR.

Documentation and Labeling Best Practices

Accurate documentation makes scale manageable:

• Maintain an authoritative source for patch panel maps and port assignments.
• Record DOM baselines at install and any subsequent anomalies with timestamps.
• Use QR codes on switch doors that link to rack-level diagrams and port inventories.

Glossary for the 10-3227-03 SFP28 25GBase-SR Category

SFP28: A small form-factor pluggable interface standardized for 25 Gb/s serial links, mechanically similar to SFP+ but with higher signaling rates.

25GBase-SR: Short-reach 25 GbE optical standard designed for multimode fiber at 850 nm.

OM3 / OM4: 50/125 µm multimode fiber categories characterized by modal bandwidth; OM4 provides greater reach at the same data rate than OM3.

LC Connector: A compact duplex fiber connector common in data centers; used by SFP-class optics.

FEC (Forward Error Correction): Encoding that adds redundancy to detect and correct errors on a link, improving reliability at high speeds.

DOM/DDM: Digital Optical Monitoring / Digital Diagnostics Monitoring—telemetry exposed by the transceiver.

VCSEL: Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser used for efficient 850 nm short-reach transmission.

Checklist for Standardizing on Cisco 10-3227-03

1. Confirm platform compatibility and software release support.
2. Align FEC and auto-negotiation policies across all 25 GbE ports.
3. Audit fiber plant for OM3/OM4 compliance and total insertion loss.
4. Adopt cleaning kits and an Inspect-Clean-Inspect routine for all LC connections.
5. Implement DOM telemetry collection and alerting.
6. Define spare ratios and stocking locations.
7. Document labeling conventions and patch field standards.

Attributes and Search Phrases

When researching and cataloging this category, commonly used phrases include: “Cisco 10-3227-03 SFP28,” “25GBase-SR MMF 850 nm transceiver,” “Cisco 25G SR LC duplex,” “SFP28 25GbE short reach,” “OM3/OM4 25G optics,” “LC duplex SFP28 SR,” and “Cisco 25G multimode fiber module.” Incorporate these naturally in product listings, comparison charts, and support articles to improve discoverability while remaining accurate and helpful to readers.

Edge Cases and Special Considerations

High-Density Chassis

In chassis packed with many SFP28s, local heating can raise case temperatures. Ensure front-to-back airflow is unobstructed and avoid tight fiber bundles that block vents. Monitor DOM temperature trends after densification projects.

Mixed-Speed Environments

In racks where 10 GbE and 25 GbE coexist, use clear labeling to prevent cross-patching. Establish port-profile templates in the network OS that enforce speed and FEC settings to reduce human error.

Value Proposition Summary for the Category

• Simplicity: Duplex LC over OM3/OM4 with single-lane serial signaling keeps deployment straightforward.
• Efficiency: Low power draw supports dense access tiers without thermal penalties.
• Scalability: Easy to replicate across racks and pods; inventory-friendly SKU standardization.
• Interoperability: Designed for Cisco 25 GbE platforms with DOM support and SR optics conventions.

Content Blocks for Category Pages

Feature Highlights

• 25 GbE SFP28 form factor for compact, high-density ports.
• Short-wave 850 nm operation optimized for OM3/OM4 MMF.
• Low-power, hot-swappable design with DOM diagnostics.
• Typical reach up to ~100 m on OM4; ~70 m on OM3.

Applications

• Server NIC uplinks to ToR switches in cloud and enterprise data centers.
• Short-run switch interconnects in aggregation tiers.
• Storage and HCI clusters requiring reliable 25 GbE east-west bandwidth.

What’s in the Box

Each unit typically ships as a single SFP28 optical transceiver with protective dust plugs and standard labeling. Packaging varies by distributor; retain all materials for RMA eligibility.

Planning for Growth

Even as 100/200/400 GbE uplinks proliferate, 25 GbE at the server edge remains cost-effective. Standardizing on the 10-3227-03 for short-reach access preserves optionality: as nodes demand more bandwidth, you can add ports, bond links (where appropriate), or step up at the aggregation layer without replacing your structured cabling plant.

Interoperability with Breakout and Aggregation

When connecting to higher-speed uplinks, keep the 25 GbE edge independent. Use dedicated uplink ports for 100 GbE or 400 GbE spines. Avoid makeshift breakouts unless they are expressly supported. The clarity of single-lane 25 GbE SR optics at the edge prevents the operational pitfalls of mixed media paths.

Change Management and Documentation Templates

Incorporate consistent templates in your change records for optics work:

• Device name, slot/port, and optic serial.
• Before/after DOM readings (Tx/Rx power, temperature).
• Fiber path description (panel IDs, cassette IDs, jumper lengths).
• Verification steps and test results.

End-User Outcomes and Business Impact

Reliable 25 GbE links translate to faster application response, improved VM density per host, and smoother data replication. Choosing the Cisco 10-3227-03 for short-reach needs helps network teams deliver these outcomes without over-engineering or overspending.

Selecting the Right 25 GbE SR Optic

When the requirement is short-distance, high-reliability 25 GbE over multimode fiber, the Cisco 10-3227-03 SFP28 25GBase-SR MMF 850 nm transceiver module is a practical, standardized choice. Pair it with clean, well-labeled OM3/OM4 cabling; align FEC and speed policies; monitor DOM; and maintain a modest spare pool. These fundamentals will keep your access and aggregation layers humming—rack after rack, pod after pod.