Cisco 6-Port 10-G SR FTW Network Module (spare)

Elevate your data center capabilities with the Cisco 6-Port 10-G SR FTW Network Module (spare). This high-performance expansion module is designed for data networking environments that demand scalable 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, robust optical performance, and seamless integration with Cisco’s trusted chassis ecosystems. With six 10GBASE-SR ports, this spare module provides a reliable, plug-and-play solution to extend uplink density, accelerate aggregation, and future-proof your network infrastructure. Built to support short-range fiber connections, it leverages the proven advantages of SR optics to deliver fast, low-latency links over multi-mode fiber, making it an ideal fit for data centers, campus networks, and enterprise data backbones that require flexible, high-bandwidth expansions.

In today’s data-driven world, bandwidth demands are on the rise. The Cisco 6-Port 10-G SR FTW Network Module is engineered to address this reality by offering dense port counts in a compact module form factor. As a spare part, it minimizes downtime; simply swap in the module to restore full port functionality without costly system outages. The SR (short-range) optics are optimized for multi-mode fiber runs typical of intra-building and data center environments, delivering reliable 10 Gbps links across distances that balance performance and cost. This module is a strategic addition to a Cisco-based deployment, enabling network operators to scale capacity in a modular, predictable way while preserving the integrity of existing configurations.

• High-density 6-port design: Six independent 10GBASE-SR ports provide ample uplink and interconnect capacity within a single module, improving cabling organization and reducing complexity in crowded racking environments.
• 10 Gigabit Ethernet over SR optics: Each port supports 10 Gbps performance, ideal for data-intensive workloads, clustering, virtualization, and storage interconnects that require low latency and high throughput.
• Short-range multi-mode fiber compatibility: Optimized for SR optics over multi-mode fiber, delivering efficient, cost-effective links for intra-data-center and campus networks with typical OM3/OM4 fiber cabling.
• Plug-and-play expansion for Cisco chassis: Designed to integrate with compatible Cisco chassis, enabling quick field upgrades and streamlined maintenance without significant downtime.
• Spare part for downtime reduction: As a spare module, it minimizes service interruptions by allowing fast replacement, ensuring ongoing network availability during maintenance windows or failure events.

Technical Details of Cisco 6-Port 10-G SR FTW Network Module (spare)

• Ports: 6 x 10GBASE-SR optical ports
• Data rate: 10 Gbps per port (aggregate performance scales with the connected fabric)
• Fiber type: Short-range multi-mode fiber (optimized for SR optics)
• Connectors: LC duplex connectors for SR fiber links
• Form factor: Expansion module designed for compatible Cisco chassis with expansion slots
• Compatibility: Part of Cisco data networking and optical network ecosystems; intended for use in supported chassis environments
• Operational considerations: Hot-swappable design in applicable chassis with standard Cisco management integration
• Warranty and support: Sold as a spare part to support maintenance strategies and rapid recovery in data centers

how to install Cisco 6-Port 10-G SR FTW Network Module

Installing this 6-port 10-G SR FTW Network Module is designed to be straightforward within compatible Cisco chassis. Follow these general steps to ensure a smooth, safe installation. Always refer to your chassis’ official installation guide for model-specific instructions and safety precautions.

1) Prepare the chassis and workspace: power down or follow hot-swappable procedures as defined by your Cisco platform. Verify that you have an available expansion slot and that you’re working in an ESD-safe environment to prevent damage to delicate optics.

2) Verify compatibility: confirm that the module is appropriate for your chassis and that the expansion slot is capable of hosting SR-based 10GBASE-SR modules. Check the chassis’ maintenance and service documentation to ensure correct compatibility and firmware alignment.

3) Insert the module: carefully align the module with the expansion slot and insert it firmly until it is seated. Ensure seating is secure and that there are no misaligned connectors that could affect optical performance or port operation.

4) Attach fiber cabling: connect the LC duplex fiber cables to the 10GBASE-SR ports, ensuring correct polarity (transmit/receive alignment) and fiber type. Use multimode OM3/OM4 fiber with appropriate bend-radius considerations to protect signal integrity.

5) Power and verify: re-energize the chassis according to your platform’s guidelines, then use the management interface (CLI or GUI) to confirm that all six ports are recognized. Check LED indicators for link integrity on each port, and verify that traffic paths align with your intended topology.

6) Configure as needed: apply VLANs, QoS, routing or bridging configurations as required by your network design. If you’re using this module as a spare, document the slot, port mapping, and the intended standby status to simplify future activations.

7) Validation and testing: perform baseline throughput tests and latency measurements to confirm that the SR-based links meet your performance targets. Validate redundancy and failover paths to ensure continued operation in the event of a module swap or link disruption.

With this installation flow, you gain confidence that your Cisco 6-Port 10-G SR FTW Network Module will operate as expected within your data center fabric. The module’s design emphasizes reliability, ease of maintenance, and compatibility with Cisco’s robust management capabilities, providing a pragmatic solution for expanding 10G Ethernet capacity without overhauling existing infrastructure.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the primary use of the Cisco 6-Port 10-G SR FTW Network Module (spare)?
  A: It serves as a 6-port 10GBASE-SR expansion module designed to augment data center uplinks and interconnects. As a spare, it enables rapid replacement to minimize downtime and keep networks running smoothly.
• Q: Which environments is this module best suited for?
  A: It’s ideal for data centers and enterprise networks that rely on Cisco chassis platforms and require high-density 10GbE SR links for intra-building or campus deployments with multi-mode fiber cabling.
• Q: Do I need any special tools to install this module?
  A: Installation generally uses standard hardware procedures defined by your Cisco chassis, along with optical fiber handling tools. Always follow the vendor’s safety and installation guidelines and use ESD protection.
• Q: Can I mix this module with other 10GBASE-SR modules from Cisco?
  A: In most supported chassis configurations, you can mix SR-based expansion modules as long as the platform and firmware support the combination. Check your chassis compatibility matrix and firmware requirements for best results.
• Q: What warranty or support options come with this spare module?
  A: Spare parts typically carry the seller’s or vendor’s standard warranty policy, providing coverage during maintenance and replacement scenarios. Confirm warranty terms with your vendor at purchase.