JD261A HPE 2-Ports 1000Base-X Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Module

Key Capabilities and Immediate Benefits

Network architects and IT managers choose the JD261A for its simplicity and operational advantages. Primary benefits include:

• Two dedicated 1000Base-X SFP ports for fiber uplink or optical transceiver flexibility.
• Compact mini form factor that preserves chassis slots and allows mixed module deployments.
• Seamless support for VLAN tagging, link aggregation (LACP), and advanced QoS features present in HP MSR firmware.
• High reliability designed for continuous operation in carrier-grade and enterprise environments.
• Easy install/remove hot-swap capability on supported platforms (refer to platform compatibility list).

The JD261A module

This module is ideal for:

• Branch offices that need fiber uplinks to metro aggregation rings.
• Service providers requiring compact gigabit optical interfaces in edge routers.
• Enterprise networks performing fiber-based redundant links between buildings or data closets.
• IT teams who want scalable port density without replacing existing router platforms.

Technical Characteristics

Physical and Interface Details

The JD261A exposes two SFP-style cages that accept a wide range of GBIC/SFP transceivers, allowing operators to select short-reach multimode optics (1000Base-SX) or long-reach single-mode optics (1000Base-LX/LH), depending on link distance and fiber plant. The mini module conserves space and maintains airflow profiles of the chassis, while meeting the mechanical and thermal constraints specified by HPE for MSR expansion modules.

Common SFP transceiver options

• 1000Base-SX (850 nm) multimode transceivers — short reach, multimode fiber (MMF).
• 1000Base-LX (1310 nm) single-mode transceivers — medium to long reach, single-mode fiber (SMF).
• DWDM/CWDM optics — for dense wavelength applications (verify vendor compatibility).
• WDM passive mux/demux — when used in conjunction with proper SFPs for wavelength routing.

Performance and Throughput

Each 1000Base-X port operates at full Gigabit Ethernet speed (1 Gbps) and supports auto-negotiation where applicable with SFPs that indicate capability. The module forwards packets at wire speed, preserving advanced switching and routing functions. Because the JD261A uses standard SFP interfaces, latency is primarily determined by the router’s forwarding plane and the choice of transceivers rather than the module itself.

Layer 2 and Layer 3 feature support

• VLAN tagging and trunking (802.1Q)
• Link Aggregation (802.3ad / LACP) for bandwidth scaling and redundancy
• Spanning Tree Protocol (STP/RSTP/MSTP) compatibility for loop prevention
• Advanced IP routing (static, OSPF, BGP, RIP — depending on router firmware)
• Quality of Service (QoS) policing, shaping and classification

Compatibility and Supported Platforms

The JD261A is manufactured to integrate with HPE MSR series routers and specified HPE modular systems. Before purchase and installation, verify compatibility with your router model and firmware revision to ensure the module is supported and that any required software license is present. Typical supported platforms include MSR models that accept mini expansion modules or equivalent HP modular chassis with matching slot types.

Firmware and software considerations

For optimal performance and feature availability, update the router’s OS image to a recommended release that explicitly lists JD261A compatibility. Some advanced features (such as vendor-specific QoS or enhanced security modules) may require particular firmware versions or licenses. Always consult HPE release notes and compatibility matrices when planning upgrades.

Interoperability with third-party optics

The SFP cages accept transceivers from multiple vendors. While generic SFPs typically work, using HPE-branded or certified optics reduces the risk of vendor lockouts or diagnostic discrepancies. When deploying third-party optics, validate administrative notices and test the link for stability, optical power margins and error rates.

Network Design Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios

Branch office uplink

Deploy JD261A modules when branch routers require fiber uplinks to aggregation points. With dual SFP ports, administrators can implement primary and backup fiber links, or aggregate both ports for higher throughput to regional aggregation routers.

Data center access and top-of-rack (ToR) integration

In small data centers or edge compute closets, JD261A modules provide a cost-effective optical interface for connecting server racks or micro-data centers to aggregation switches. Use LACP for resilient uplinks and enable QoS for latency-sensitive applications such as storage or virtualization traffic.

Metropolitan area network (MAN) edge aggregation

Service providers and large enterprises can use the module to add gigabit optical ports at the edge of MSR routing platforms, enabling connection to metro fiber rings and wavelength services offered by carriers. The optical flexibility supports both single-mode and multimode deployments depending on network architecture.

Durability and operational lifespan

Built to vendor quality standards, the JD261A is designed for continuous duty in controlled racks and wiring closets. Proper cooling, dust control and power stability extend operational life. Use manufacturer guidance for ambient temperature ranges and airflow patterns when installing the module.

Regulatory and safety certifications

The module complies with standard industry safety and electromagnetic compatibility guidelines as applicable for HPE networking hardware. Check product documentation for explicit certification listings, including regional marks (CE, FCC, etc.) if compliance is required for specific installations or procurement.

Ordering Information, Part Numbers and Lifecycle

Manufacturer part number and identifiers

The module is commonly identified by the manufacturer part number JD261A. When procuring, verify the SKU, shipping packaging and revision identifiers to ensure you receive the correct variant. Authorized resellers and HPE channel partners can confirm warranty status and available extended support packages.

Warranty, support and spares

Warranty terms vary by region and reseller policies. Typically, HPE modules are covered under the platform’s hardware warranty; extended support contracts such as HPE Care Pack provide advanced replacement, on-site support and accelerated RMA processing. Maintain spare modules if network uptime is critical so you can quickly swap faulty units and minimize downtime.

Lifecycle planning

Plan for lifecycle events such as end-of-sale (EOS) and end-of-support (EOSu) by tracking HPE announcements. When designing long-term networks, prefer modular solutions that allow incremental upgrades and ensure future optical technologies (e.g., 10G or higher) can be accommodated via alternate slots or uplink modules.

Security Considerations

Physical and logical security

Physical security for modules includes locked racks, tamper-evident seals, and restricted access to wiring closets. At the logical level, configure access control for the router (role-based access, secure management protocols such as SSH/SNMPv3) and harden interfaces by using ACLs, port security and disabling unused services.

Optical layer vulnerabilities

The optical layer can be susceptible to unauthorized taps or fiber interception. Use secure routing domain design, encryption over sensitive links (IPsec), and monitor for unusual traffic patterns to detect possible fiber security issues. In carrier and government environments, consider link encryption and physical route diversity for critical circuits.

Comparison, Alternatives and Upgrade Options

How JD261A compares to other mini gigabit modules

Compared to multi-port copper modules, the JD261A’s fiber-oriented design provides longer reach and reduced electromagnetic susceptibility. Versus higher speed 10Gb modules, JD261A is more cost-efficient for Gigabit needs but does not provide 10Gb throughput. It is a practical choice when the immediate requirement is gigabit fiber connectivity rather than future 10G migration.

When to upgrade to 10G or higher

• Consistent link saturation at or near 1 Gbps per port.
• Growing numbers of east-west traffic in data centers and virtualization platforms.
• Planned migrations to converged infrastructure that require higher bandwidth.