Cisco SFP (mini-GBIC) Module – 1000BASE-LX/LH Optical Transceiver

Upgrade your data network with a high‑quality Cisco SFP (mini‑GBIC) Module engineered for dependable, long‑haul fiber connectivity. Built to meet the demands of modern enterprise, data centers, and campus networks, this 1000BASE-LX/LH transceiver delivers robust 1 Gbps performance over single‑mode fiber, while remaining compact, hot‑swappable, and fully compatible with Cisco Catalyst, Nexus, and ISR devices. Whether you are extending a LAN backbone, building a metropolitan area link, or connecting remote distribution cabinets, this Cisco SFP module provides the reliability, ease of deployment, and scalable bandwidth your network architecture requires.

• Seamless Cisco ecosystem compatibility: Designed to integrate flawlessly with Cisco switches, routers, and other compatible devices, this SFP module ensures optimum interoperability across your network. It works with Cisco OS platforms such as IOS, IOS-XE, and NX‑OS, enabling straightforward provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting. Whether you’re upgrading an existing link or deploying a new fiber backbone, you can count on predictable behavior, consistent performance, and simplified management within your Cisco environment.
• 1000BASE-LX/LH performance for long‑reach fiber: Leveraging 1310 nm wavelength technology, the transceiver delivers up to 1 Gbps data rates with low input/output jitter for stable, high‑throughput links. The LX/LH family is optimized for long‑haul single‑mode fiber, enabling you to bridge dispersed campus buildings, connect data centers over metropolitan networks, and extend fiber distances without sacrificing reliability. This makes it an ideal choice for backbone networks, inter‑switch uplinks, and high‑density server access paths.
• Compact mini‑GBIC design with hot‑swappable convenience: The tiny, modular SFP form factor minimizes space consumption in dense switch racks and blade chassis. Its hot‑swap capability reduces maintenance windows, letting you insert or replace the module without powering down devices (in devices that support hot‑swap). The compact housing also aids in cable management and airflow, contributing to cleaner installations and easier upgrades in crowded data environments.
• Long‑haul single‑mode fiber support for flexible topologies: Ideal for campus cores, data center interconnects, and metro networks, the LX/LH transceiver is built to handle long distances over SMF fiber. With proper fiber type and connectors, you can achieve extended reach—connecting distant buildings, aggregating dispersed workloads, or linking remote sites—while maintaining reliable 1 Gbps performance and precise signal integrity.
• Diagnostic and reliability features for proactive maintenance: This SFP module includes modern health monitoring capabilities (DDM/DOM) that expose real‑time metrics such as optical power, temperature, supply voltage, and transceiver status. These diagnostics support proactive fault isolation, easier troubleshooting, and improved uptime. Coupled with Cisco‑level build quality and RoHS compliance, you get a dependable component designed for consistent performance in mission‑critical networks.

Technical Details of Cisco SFP (mini-GBIC) Module

• Data rate: 1.25 Gbps nominal for 1000BASE‑LX/LH operation, delivering reliable gigabit Ethernet over fiber
• Wavelength: 1310 nm transmit and receive, optimized for low attenuation in standard SMF runs
• Fiber type: Single‑mode fiber (SMF) for long‑haul connections and backbone applications
• Connector: LC duplex optical connector, compatible with common SMF cabling and patch panels
• Distance: Up to 10 km on standard SMF, with actual reach dependent on fiber quality, attenuation, and installation practices
• Transmitter/Receiver: TX 1310 nm and RX 1310 nm optics designed for stable gigabit performance
• DDM/DOM: Yes, enabling real‑time monitoring of optical power, temperature, and other vital parameters
• Hot‑swappable: Yes, designed for easy insertion/removal in compatible Cisco devices
• Operating temperature: 0 to 70 °C (commercial grade); some variants may offer extended temperature ranges
• Power consumption: Typically around 1.0 W maximum, depending on model and operating conditions
• Standards compliance: 1000BASE‑LX/LH compliant; RoHS compliant; suitable for deployment with Cisco networking gear

How to Install Cisco SFP (mini-GBIC) Module

Installing a Cisco SFP (mini‑GBIC) Module is a straightforward process designed to minimize downtime and maximize network availability. Follow these best‑practice steps to ensure a clean, reliable deployment. The SFP is engineered for hot‑swap operation on supported devices, but always confirm your specific hardware and firmware support before proceeding with any maintenance activity.

• Power down the device only if required by your environment or if your equipment mandates a shutdown for safety; many Cisco devices support hot‑swap insertion of SFP modules without powering down.
• Remove the dust caps from both the SFP slot and the fiber optic cable ends. Store caps in a safe place to protect connectors during handling and transport.
• Gently align the SFP module with the port and insert it straight into the slot until it seats with a distinct click. Do not apply sideways force or overt pressure.
• Prepare the fiber optic cable: ensure the LC connectors are clean, dry, and free of dust. Remove protective caps just before insertion and avoid touching the fiber end faces.
• Connect the LC fiber to the SFP, verify proper polarity and seating, then reattach any dust caps to the fiber ends if you anticipate movement or re‑cabling.
• Power up the device (if it was powered down) and monitor the link status LEDs or the device management interface to confirm a stable 1 Gbps connection. Use your switch/router CLI or GUI to verify interface status and speed.

Frequently asked questions

• What is 1000BASE-LX/LH? It is a fiber optic Ethernet standard that provides 1 Gbps data rate over long‑reach single‑mode fiber using a 1310 nm wavelength, enabling extended links between switches, servers, and storage devices.
• Is this Cisco SFP module hot‑swappable? Yes. It is designed to be inserted or removed from compatible Cisco devices without powering down the entire system in many cases, reducing maintenance time and downtime.
• What type of fiber does it use? Single‑mode fiber (SMF) to achieve longer distances with lower attenuation, making it suitable for backbone and campus backbone scenarios.
• What is the maximum distance? The typical maximum distance is up to 10 kilometers on standard SMF; actual reach depends on fiber quality, installation practices, and the specific hardware in the link.
• Is it compatible with all Cisco devices? Compatibility depends on the device model and firmware version. This module is designed for Cisco devices that support 1000BASE‑LX/LH SFP modules. Always check the device's compatibility matrix and firmware requirements before purchase or installation.