H3C Switch Multimode Fiber Optic Card

H3C multimode fiber optic cards use SFP+ or QSFP transceivers to enable high-speed optical connections over multimode fiber, typically for short-range data center and enterprise networks.

Overview

H3C switches support a variety of optical transceivers for multimode fiber (MMF) connections, including SFP, SFP+, SFP28, QSFP+, and QSFP28 modules . These transceivers perform optical-to-electrical and electrical-to-optical conversions, providing functions such as optical power control, signal modulation, and decision regeneration . Multimode fibers have thicker cores than single-mode fibers, allowing multiple light modes to propagate, but they are generally limited to short-range transmission due to inter-mode dispersion .

Common H3C Multimode Fiber Modules

• H3C SFP-XG-SX-MM850-E: A 10Gbps SFP+ short-range transceiver operating at 850nm, designed for OM3/OM4 multimode fiber. It is widely used in top-of-rack switches, aggregation switches, and server interconnects for low-latency, cost-efficient 10G Ethernet links .
• H3C SFP-GE-SX-MM850-A/D: Supports 1GbE over multimode fiber, with typical link distances up to 550 meters. These modules are cost-effective and suitable for Gigabit Ethernet and Fibre Channel applications .
• QSFP28 100G SR4: For high-density 40G/100G multimode fiber connections, often used in data center core or ToR switches. These modules support short-range multimode links with MPO connectors .

Key Specifications

• Wavelength: Most multimode modules operate at 850nm, compatible with OM3/OM4 fibers .
• Data Rates: Available from 1Gbps to 100Gbps, depending on the module type .
• Transmission Distance: Typically up to 550 meters for 1G/10G SFP+ modules; QSFP28 SR4 modules can reach 100 meters over OM4 fiber .
• Form Factor: SFP, SFP+, QSFP+, QSFP28, compatible with H3C switch slots .

Deployment Considerations

• Compatibility: Ensure the transceiver matches the switch slot type and supports the intended data rate.
• Fiber Type: Use OM3 or OM4 multimode fiber for 10G+ links; single-mode fibers are for long-range connections .
• Short-Range Use: Multimode fiber is ideal for intra-data center connections due to lower cost and easier handling compared to single-mode fiber .
• Maintenance: H3C transceivers support hot-plugging, allowing easy replacement or upgrades without powering down the switch .

Summary

H3C multimode fiber optic cards rely on pluggable SFP/SFP+/QSFP modules to provide high-speed, short-range optical connectivity. Selecting the right module involves considering data rate, fiber type, wavelength, and transmission distance. For 10G Ethernet, the SFP-XG-SX-MM850-E is a common choice, while QSFP28 SR4 modules are used for 40G/100G high-density links in modern data centers . Proper selection ensures reliable, low-latency, and cost-efficient network performance.