Eaton Tripp Lite Series Cisco-Compatible QSFP-DD Transceiver - 400GBase-SR8, MMF MPO/APC, 850 nm, 100 m

The Eaton Tripp Lite Series Cisco-Compatible QSFP-DD Transceiver is engineered to deliver exceptional high-speed connectivity for modern data centers. Designed to integrate seamlessly with existing routers, servers, and switches, this transceiver module unlocks the full potential of a 400 Gigabit Ethernet backbone. With an emphasis on reliability, interoperability, and performance, it is the ideal solution for data centers seeking to scale with confidence while preserving your current network investments. This 400GBase-SR8 transceiver leverages multimode fiber and an 850 nm VCSEL laser to provide a robust 400 Gbps link over short-reach applications, making it perfect for campus cores, rack-to-rack interconnects, and intra-data center deployments where speed, density, and simplicity matter most.

• High-Performance 400GBase-SR8 — This QSFP-DD transceiver delivers up to 400 Gbps of total data throughput across eight parallel 50 Gbps lanes, designed for short-reach multi-mode fiber. It is optimized for high-density data center networks, enabling rapid East-West traffic movement between switches and servers. The SR8 specification uses parallel optical signaling to maximize ecosystem efficiency and simplify cabling architecture in dense environments.
• Multimode Fiber (MMF) with MPO/APC — Built for MMF cabling, this transceiver uses an MPO/APC connector interface to support high-bandwidth, low-insertion loss optical paths. The MMF approach pairs well with OM4/OM3 fiber types, delivering reliable 100-meter reach in typical data-center layouts. The APC polish reduces back-reflections, helping maintain signal integrity across longer trunk cables and complex interconnects.
• Cisco-Compatible and Enterprise-Grade Reliability — The Eaton Tripp Lite transceiver is designed to work with Cisco-compatible networking gear, ensuring a smooth plug-and-play experience in mixed-vendor environments. It’s built to meet stringent industry standards for interoperability, enabling you to deploy with confidence in multi-vendor data centers, campus networks, or service-provider environments while preserving performance predictability and service levels.
• Easy Integration for Modern Data Centers — This QSFP-DD module is purpose-built for seamless integration into existing 400G-capable QSFP-DD ports. The rugged form factor, standard-compliant electrical interface, and standardized optical performance allow for straightforward deployment in spine-leaf topologies, L2/L3 network fabrics, and cloud-scale infrastructures. It supports hot-swapping in many chassis and switch platforms, minimizing downtime and operational disruption.
• Optimal for High-Density, Low-Latency Deployments — Ideal for applications requiring dense interconnects, the 400GBase-SR8 transceiver reduces module count and simplifies cable management. Its 850 nm VCSEL technology is optimized for short-reach links, delivering low latency and high signal quality essential for latency-sensitive workloads, including AI inference, real-time analytics, and virtualized data center services. The combination of SR8 speed, MMF compatibility, and APC termination makes it a strong choice for performance-driven networks.

Technical Details of Eaton Tripp Lite Series Cisco-Compatible QSFP-DD Transceiver

• Data Rate: 400 Gbps (400GBase-SR8)
• Standard: QSFP-DD form factor with 400GBase-SR8 specification
• Fiber Type: Multimode Fiber (MMF)
• Wavelength: 850 nm
• Distance: Up to 100 meters (328 feet) on MMF
• Connector Type: MPO/APC
• Compatibility: Cisco-compatible ecosystem; Eaton Tripp Lite Series transceiver family
• Form Factor: QSFP-DD hot-pluggable transceiver module

How to Install Eaton Tripp Lite Series Cisco-Compatible QSFP-DD Transceiver

Step 1 — Verify compatibility and prepare the system: Before installation, confirm that the host switch, router, or server supports QSFP-DD 400G NICs and SR8 optical modules. Ensure the slot is designated for 400GBase-SR8 and that the chassis power and cooling align with your data-center requirements. If you’re replacing an existing module, power down or follow hot-swapping guidelines as dictated by your equipment vendor.

Step 2 — Remove protective covers and inspect: If the transceiver arrives with protective caps, remove them from the optical interface and confirm the MPO/APC connector and fibers are clean and free from dust. Inspect the module’s exterior for any shipping damage. Handle the module by its edges to prevent contact with the optical ports.

Step 3 — Install the transceiver into the QSFP-DD slot: Align the module with the QSFP-DD port and carefully insert until you hear or feel a secure latch engage. Do not force the module; ensure the connector is fully seated and seated evenly. If your chassis supports hot-swapping, you can install without powering down the system; otherwise follow your equipment’s safe-disconnect procedures.

Step 4 — Attach fiber cables and route carefully: Connect the MMF trunk or ribbon cable to the MPO/APC interface on the transceiver. Ensure proper polarity and cleanliness of MPO connectors. Route fiber cables to avoid sharp bends or tension, using appropriate cable management to minimize stress on the connector interface. If using a breakout or trunk configuration, follow your network design guidelines to preserve signal integrity and minimize crosstalk between channels.

Step 5 — Verify operation and performance: Power on the equipment (if required) and verify link status via the switch’s management interface or CLI. Check for link negotiation, optical signal strength, and error counters. Run a basic throughput test and monitor for any anomalies such as high error rates or unexpected disconnects. If issues arise, re-seat the transceiver, re-terminate the fiber, or swap cables to isolate root causes. Maintain up-to-date firmware on both the transceiver and the host device to ensure compatibility and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is 400GBase-SR8?
A: 400GBase-SR8 is a short-reach, parallel optical transceiver standard that uses eight 50 Gbps lanes to achieve 400 Gbps total bandwidth over multimode fiber. It is designed for data-center interconnects and intra-data center links, typically deployed with QSFP-DD ports and MPO/MTP multimode fiber cabling. The SR8 approach emphasizes high-density cabling and reduced component counts while delivering high-speed performance over relatively short distances.

Q: Is this transceiver Cisco-compatible?
A: Yes. The Eaton Tripp Lite Series Cisco-Compatible QSFP-DD Transceiver is designed to work with Cisco-compatible networking equipment, helping ensure smooth interoperability in mixed-vendor environments while maintaining reliable 400G performance.

Q: What kind of fiber and connector does it require?
A: It uses Multimode Fiber (MMF) with an MPO/APC connector interface. The 850 nm wavelength is optimized for MMF lanes, typically performing best on OM4/OM3 fiber materials, with APC termination to minimize reflections and maintain signal integrity.

Q: How far can I run a 400GBase-SR8 link with this transceiver?
A: The SR8 implementation is designed for short-reach links, with a typical reach of up to 100 meters on suitable MMF cabling. Distance can vary based on fiber quality, connector cleanliness, and network design, so real-world measurements should be taken in the deployment environment.

Q: What should I do to maintain optimal performance?
A: Keep MPO/APC connectors clean, avoid bending fiber beyond recommended radii, and ensure proper cable management. Regularly inspect the transceiver and cables for wear, dust, or damage. Keep firmware and software on host devices up to date to preserve compatibility and performance stability.