Description
Dell QSFP28 Module
Designed for modern data centers, the Dell QSFP28 Module is a high-density, 100 Gigabit Ethernet transceiver that delivers scalable bandwidth for increasingly demanding workloads. This hot-pluggable module uses the QSFP28 footprint to enable dense port configurations in spine-leaf architectures, large campus networks, and cloud deployments. With a duplex LC optical interface and a reach of up to 100 meters on appropriate fiber, it is ideal for connections between top-of-rack switches and core routers, server aggregation, and high-speed storage networks. The Dell QSFP28 Module is engineered for reliability and plug-and-play convenience, allowing IT teams to expand capacity without significant downtime or service interruption. It integrates seamlessly into Dell Networking ecosystems and is compatible with a broad range of 100G-capable switches and routers, ensuring predictable behavior, consistent performance, and simplified management. Whether you’re consolidating data center footprints, upgrading legacy 10G links, or building a multi-site backbone, this transceiver provides a proven, future-ready pathway to 100G. Its design emphasizes thermal efficiency, robust protection features, and long-term reliability, so administrators can scale their networks with confidence while maintaining exceptional application performance and uptime.
- Ultra-fast 100 Gbps throughput with scalable performance: The Dell QSFP28 Module is engineered to deliver 100GBASE connectivity, enabling high-density links between switches, servers, and storage arrays. It supports demanding workloads such as virtualization, data analytics, AI/ML workloads, and real-time analytics, where predictable latency and sustained throughput are critical. The module’s compact QSFP28 form factor allows data centers to maximize port density in dense rack environments while preserving airflow and cable organization for better cooling and maintenance. Its compatibility with standard Ethernet specifications ensures straightforward deployment across multi-vendor data centers, reducing integration risk and accelerating time-to-value for network modernization projects.
- Duplex LC fiber interface for flexible, clean deployments: Equipped with a duplex LC connector, this transceiver supports single-mode fiber configurations ideal for longer reach and simplified fiber management. The duplex LC interface pairs with common optical fiber paths used in data centers and campuses, enabling clean labeling, easy cross-connects, and reliable cabling in high-density racks. By supporting standard LC cabling, the module integrates smoothly with existing fiber infrastructures, reducing the need for specialized cabling or adapters and helping administrators maintain consistent link quality across the network.
- Hot-pluggable, service-ready design for minimal downtime: The Dell QSFP28 Module is designed for hot-swapping in supported devices, allowing insertion or removal without powering down the entire chassis. This capability minimizes maintenance windows, accelerates upgrades, and aligns with best practices for continuous service delivery in mission-critical environments. The physical design includes precise latching and alignment features to ensure secure engagement with the host port, along with safeguards against electrostatic discharge and other handling risks during installation or replacement.
- Seamless Dell Networking compatibility and broad interoperability: Optimized for Dell switches and routers, this transceiver also offers broad interoperability with other 100G QSFP28-enabled devices that adhere to standard Ethernet specifications. The module provides a reliable upgrade path from older 40G/100G links and supports mixed-vendor deployments when firmware compatibility is confirmed. This versatility helps IT teams protect existing investments while delivering the performance gains required for modern workloads, virtualization, and cloud-scale applications.
- Reliability, efficiency, and robust protection for data-center operations: With a focus on energy efficiency and thermal stability in densely packed racks, the module is built to sustain high-throughput operations with minimal heat generation. It incorporates protective features such as robust connectors and ESD safeguards to maintain link integrity in active data-center environments. The transceiver is designed for long-term operation under continuous load, delivering consistent performance, predictable latency, and stable behavior across diverse workloads and network topologies.
Technical Details of Dell QSFP28 Module
- Form Factor: QSFP28 hot-pluggable transceiver
- Data Rate: 100 Gbps (100GBASE family compatibility)
- Connector: Duplex LC optical interface
- Reach: Up to 100 meters on appropriate fiber
- Compatibility: Dell Networking 100G QSFP28 platforms and other 100G-capable switches
- Operating Conditions: Standard data-center ambient temperature range
- Power and Thermal: Optimized for data-center power environments with reliable thermal performance
How to install Dell QSFP28 Module
- Step 1: Verify compatibility with your device model, firmware version, and fiber type. Confirm that the port supports a QSFP28 module and that the link path uses duplex LC connectors.
- Step 2: If your equipment supports hot-swapping, you may insert the module with the system powered on; otherwise follow your vendor’s guidelines to safely power down before installation.
- Step 3: Remove any existing transceiver or prepare the port according to your device’s maintenance procedures. Ensure the slot is clean and free of debris before inserting the new module.
- Step 4: Align the module with the port, apply even pressure, and seat it firmly until you hear or feel a secure click. Avoid excessive force to prevent damage to connectors or the host port.
- Step 5: Attach the duplex LC fiber cables to the module, ensuring proper polarity and complete seating of each connector. Hand-tighten connectors and avoid overtightening to protect the fiber tips.
- Step 6: Power on or resume operation, then access the management interface to verify the link status, negotiated speed, and error-free performance. Run a basic throughput test to confirm the expected 100 Gbps performance and monitor for any link downtime or CRC errors.
Frequently asked questions
- Q: What is the Dell QSFP28 Module used for?
- Q: How far can this transceiver reach?
- Q: Is the module hot-swappable?
- Q: What connector type does it use?
- Q: Is it compatible with non-Dell switches?
The Dell QSFP28 Module is a high-density 100 Gigabit Ethernet transceiver designed to extend network connectivity between switches, servers, and storage arrays using QSFP28 ports and duplex LC optical cables. It enables scalable backbone and spine-leaf deployments, supports virtualization and cloud workloads, and helps data centers achieve faster interconnectivity with reduced wiring complexity.
Typically up to 100 meters when deployed with the appropriate single-mode fiber and optical components, enabling efficient connections between adjacent data-center layers, aggregation points, and campus network links without compromising signal integrity.
Yes. The Dell QSFP28 Module is designed as a hot-pluggable transceiver, allowing insertion and removal without powering down supported devices in compatible systems, thereby minimizing downtime during upgrades or maintenance.
The module uses a duplex LC optical connector, which is common for single-mode fiber deployments and simplifies fiber management in dense rack environments.
In many cases, yes—if the switch supports 100G QSFP28 modules and the firmware is compatible with the transceiver. Always verify vendor compatibility, firmware alignment, and MSA compliance before deployment in mixed-vendor environments.
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