Q2P64B HPE 25GB SFP28 1 Pack Optical Transceiver

Q2P64B HPE 25GB SFP28 Short Wave Extended Optical Transceiver Overview

The Q2P64B HPE 25GB SFP28 Short Wave Extended 1 Pack Optical Transceiver is a high-performance, hot-pluggable transceiver module designed for 25 Gigabit Ethernet (25GbE) connectivity over multimode fiber (MMF). Engineered to meet the ever-growing demands of modern data centers, cloud infrastructures, and enterprise networking environments, this SFP28 module offers optimized performance, energy efficiency, and scalability in one compact form factor.

Key Features of the Q2P64B HPE 25GB SFP28 Transceiver

• Supports data rates of up to 25 Gbps
• Utilizes SFP28 (Small Form-factor Pluggable) form factor
• Shortwave Extended (SWX) optics for optimized distance and compatibility
• Wavelength: 850nm for multimode fiber links
• Hot-pluggable to SFP28 ports for quick deployment and maintenance
• Transmission distance up to 100m on OM4 MMF and up to 70m on OM3
• Low power consumption — less than 1W
• Compatible with a wide range of HPE network switches and servers

Form Factor and Interface: SFP28 Explained

The SFP28 (Small Form-factor Pluggable 28) interface is the latest generation of SFP interconnect systems. The "28" signifies 28 Gbps of throughput capability, which is essential for 25GbE networks. The Q2P64B utilizes this interface to deliver reliable high-speed data transmission while maintaining backward compatibility with 10GbE SFP+ ports (at reduced speeds).

Mechanical Design and Thermal Efficiency

Built to standard SFP28 dimensions, the Q2P64B optical transceiver features a rugged, metal housing that offers superior electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection. The transceiver's efficient thermal dissipation mechanism ensures consistent operation even under sustained high-load scenarios. With power consumption under 1 watt, it supports high-density installations without overloading power or cooling infrastructure.

Hot-Swappable and Easy to Deploy

One of the core benefits of the SFP28 design is its hot-swappable functionality. This allows network engineers and administrators to install or replace the module without shutting down the system, minimizing downtime and maximizing uptime for mission-critical applications.

Short Wave Extended Optics: Optimized for Data Center Use

The "Short Wave Extended" or SWX designation of the Q2P64B transceiver refers to its ability to transmit over short-range multimode fiber while extending beyond traditional SR (Short Reach) optical modules. It uses an 850nm VCSEL (Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser), providing superior signal integrity over distances up to 100 meters using OM4 cabling.

Short Wave Extended Matters

SWX transceivers like the Q2P64B are designed for the most demanding, high-throughput environments where latency, signal loss, and network congestion must be minimized. Extended reach allows for more flexible data center designs, accommodating longer cable runs between switches, routers, and storage arrays without additional signal boosting or regeneration.

Use Cases and Application Scenarios

The Q2P64B is tailored for a broad spectrum of networking applications. From large-scale cloud deployments to enterprise-level data centers and HPC (high-performance computing) environments, it delivers outstanding speed and reliability. Below are several specific use cases where this optical transceiver proves invaluable.

Data Center Interconnect (DCI)

With its 25Gbps data rate and low latency, the Q2P64B is ideal for DCI applications where servers and switches must be connected across short distances with maximum throughput. Using OM3 or OM4 MMF, organizations can achieve extended link lengths without compromising on performance.

Top-of-Rack (ToR) and End-of-Row (EoR) Architectures

In ToR and EoR configurations, the transceiver provides seamless connectivity between servers and aggregation switches. Its plug-and-play installation and compact design make it easy to deploy in high-density rack environments.

Server-to-Switch Connectivity

High-speed server-to-switch connectivity is crucial in virtualization and storage-heavy applications. The Q2P64B ensures reliable, error-free communication between compute and networking resources, reducing bottlenecks in data flow.

Cloud-Scale Networking

Cloud providers and colocation facilities benefit from the transceiver's energy efficiency and extended range, facilitating scalable growth while maintaining low operational costs. The module supports high availability and redundancy for cloud workloads.

Compatibility and Interoperability with HPE Systems

Designed and tested by Hewlett Packard Enterprise, the Q2P64B SFP28 transceiver guarantees complete compatibility with a wide range of HPE ProLiant servers, Aruba network switches, and Synergy compute modules. It undergoes rigorous validation testing for seamless integration with HPE firmware, drivers, and network operating systems.

Supported HPE Platforms

• HPE ProLiant DL and ML Server Series
• HPE Synergy Compute Modules
• HPE FlexFabric 5950, 5940, 5130, and 5710 switches
• Aruba CX Switch Series
• HPE Virtual Connect Modules

Firmware and Software Compatibility

The Q2P64B works with HPE networking OS versions that support 25Gbps SFP28 ports. It is recommended to keep firmware updated to ensure full compatibility and take advantage of the latest enhancements, including diagnostics and remote management capabilities.

Fiber Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Contaminated fiber ends are the leading cause of signal loss and performance issues. Use lint-free wipes and approved fiber optic cleaning tools to maintain optical interfaces. Regular inspection using a fiber scope is advised for mission-critical links.

Benefits of Choosing the Q2P64B HPE 25GB SFP28 Optical Transceiver

Selecting the Q2P64B means choosing performance, efficiency, and reliability. As a genuine HPE transceiver, it delivers unmatched synergy with HPE hardware and network systems. Below are several key advantages:

High-Speed Performance

With full duplex 25Gbps capability, the module ensures that bandwidth-intensive applications such as machine learning, database clustering, and virtualization operate without throughput constraints.

Energy Efficiency

Operating under 1W of power makes it ideal for environments that prioritize sustainability, power saving, and heat reduction. In dense networking deployments, every watt saved translates to long-term cost efficiency.

Scalability and Future-Readiness

As enterprise networks grow to accommodate 100GbE and beyond, 25GbE serves as a natural stepping stone. The Q2P64B is future-proof, supporting breakout configurations and compatibility with existing 10GbE infrastructure.

OEM Reliability and Support

Being an official HPE part, it comes with full support, firmware integration, and diagnostics functionality via HPE management tools such as HPE OneView and iLO. Counterfeit or third-party transceivers lack this level of assurance.

Compliance and Certification

The Q2P64B meets multiple international standards for optical modules. It adheres to the SFP28 MSA (Multi-Source Agreement), ensuring cross-vendor compatibility while supporting RoHS compliance for environmentally conscious data centers.

Industry Certifications

• RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances)
• Class 1 Laser Product (IEC 60825-1)
• SFP28 MSA Compliant
• FCC Part 15 Class A
• EN 55022 Class A
• EMC Directive 2014/30/EU