HPE 50G SFP56 LC SR 100m MMF Transceiver

Upgrade your data center’s uplinks with the HPE 50G SFP56 LC SR 100m MMF Transceiver – a compact, high-performance module engineered for demanding 50 Gigabit Ethernet deployments over multimode fiber. Designed to deliver dependable, low-latency connectivity in dense environments, this SFP56 transceiver brings the power of 50GBase-X to your optical network and data networking fabrics. It fits standard SFP56 slots, uses an LC duplex connector, and is optimized for short-reach links where bandwidth and efficiency matter most. Ideal for server-to-switch uplinks, storage-area networks, and high-density leaf/spine architectures, it enables seamless capacity upgrades without ripping and replacing existing fiber infrastructure. The SR designation signals a short-reach capability that suits links within a typical data center rack, cabinet, or adjacent racks, making it a practical and cost-effective choice for modernization. Whether you’re modernizing a legacy 10G/40G fabric or expanding a brand-new 50G network, this transceiver provides a reliable upgrade path with excellent compatibility across HPE equipment and many third-party devices that support SFP56 modules.

• The heart of the solution: 50GBase-X performance in a compact SFP56 form factor for multimode fiber, delivering high-throughput uplinks that can power modern workloads, including high-speed virtualization, large-scale storage, and accelerated data analytics. By moving to 50 gigabits per second over MMF, you unlock significantly more bandwidth per port while preserving your existing fiber backbone and reducing the need for expensive rewiring. The SR capability targets short-range links up to 100 meters on compliant MMF, which is a common footprint in data centers and campus environments. This makes it an ideal upgrade for top-of-rack (ToR) switches, blade enclosures, and edge deployments where latency and density are critical.
• Seamless installation and confidence-inspiring reliability: The HPE 50G SFP56 LC SR transceiver is designed for plug-and-play integration with compatible switches, routers, and optical NICs. The LC duplex connector is widely supported and easy to terminate with standard multimode fiber. The hot-swappable nature of the transceiver minimizes downtime during upgrades, enabling you to swap modules without powering down critical systems in many environments. With robust mechanical design and careful optical alignment, it delivers consistent link performance and lower misalignment risk, helping IT teams keep networks online during maintenance windows.
• Compatibility and ecosystem strength: Built to work with HPE networking gear and many third-party devices that adhere to SFP56 standards, this transceiver provides flexibility for mixed-vendor environments. It helps you extend your existing fiber plant and leverage current investments, while offering the significant throughput uplift that 50G Ethernet provides for modern workloads. Whether you’re migrating from 25G or 40G uplinks, this module helps balance cost, performance, and scalability by enabling a gradual transition to higher bandwidth without a full rip-and-replace of your fiber infrastructure.
• Quality optics and fiber versatility: The transceiver is engineered for reliable multimode fiber operation, typically leveraging OM3/OM4-grade fiber to maximize bandwidth and reach for SR links. The 850 nm wavelength of short-reach VCSEL-based technology provides robust performance across standard MMF deployments, delivering stable signaling with tight eye diagrams and strong error margins. This translates to better link stability under real-world data center loads, improved tolerance to small fiber imperfections, and consistent throughput even as racks heat up during peak usage.
• Future-friendly upgrade path and return on investment: Upgrading to 50G is a strategic move that unlocks higher aggregate bandwidth per rack without replacing all cabling. The HPE 50G SFP56 LC SR MMF transceiver lets you scale your network in a staged, cost-conscious manner while preserving existing fiber infrastructure. As your workloads grow—from AI/ML analytics to large-scale backups and virtualization—this module provides headroom for growth and helps you avoid early-out network refresh cycles. It’s a practical choice for data centers pursuing efficiency, density, and resilience in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Technical Details of HPE 50G SFP56 LC SR 100m MMF Transceiver

• Product type: Transceiver module for 50 Gigabit Ethernet (SFP56)
• Interface: SFP56 hot-pluggable optical transceiver
• Data rate: 50 Gbps (50GBASE-X)
• Fiber type: Multi-mode fiber (MMF)
• Connector: LC duplex
• Reach: Short-range (SR) up to 100 meters on compatible MMF (OM3/OM4 recommended)
• Wavelength: 850 nm (short-reach VCSEL-based operation)
• Form factor: Standard SFP56 module compatible with a wide range of SFP56 slots
• Compliance: Designed to meet industry standards for 50GBASE-X optics and to integrate with HPE networking ecosystems and compatible third-party devices
• Target applications: Optical network, data networking, server uplinks, storage networks, and high-density top-of-rack deployments

How to Install HPE 50G SFP56 LC SR 100m MMF Transceiver

To install, first verify that your switch, router, or NIC supports 50GBASE-X SFP56 optics and that the port is designated for SR-MMF operation. Power-down is not always required for hot-swappable SFP modules in supported devices, but follow your equipment’s maintenance guidelines. Once verified, remove the protective caps from the transceiver and the switch or router port, align the module with the slot, and gently insert until it seats with a confident click. Attach a clean LC duplex multimode fiber patch cord to the LC duplex connectors, ensuring you maintain proper fiber polishing and cleanliness. Avoid sharp bends and keep fiber routing tidy to prevent micro-bends that can degrade signal integrity. Once the fiber is connected, reapply power or wake the system if it is not already on, and monitor the device’s management interface for link status. A successful installation typically yields a solid link indicator and stable throughput under load. If the port does not recognize the transceiver, check firmware compatibility on both the transceiver and the host device, confirm that the fiber is OM3/OM4 MMF and properly terminated in LC connectors, and ensure the fiber polarity is correct. Keep the fiber connectors clean and use appropriate ESD precautions during handling. For best results, perform a basic throughput test and verify that near-zero loss and error rates are maintained.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What does SR mean for this HPE transceiver? A: SR stands for Short Reach. This module is optimized for MMF links up to about 100 meters, making it suitable for data center uplinks and same-campus connections where high bandwidth is needed without long-haul optics.
• Q: What fiber type should I use with this transceiver? A: Multi-mode fiber is required. OM3 or OM4 MMF fibers are recommended to maximize performance and reach for SR links, while ensuring compatibility with LC duplex connectors and standard multimode cabling practices.
• Q: Can I use this transceiver in non-HPE equipment? A: This is designed for use with devices that support SFP56 50GBase-X optics, including many HP/HPE switches and third-party devices that specify SFP56 compatibility. Always verify vendor-specific compatibility and firmware requirements before deployment in mixed-vendor environments.
• Q: Is installation hot-swappable? A: In many supported devices, SFP56 modules are hot-swappable, meaning you can replace or install without powering down. Check your device’s documentation to confirm hot-swap capability and follow standard ESD precautions during handling.
• Q: Do I need any special configuration after installation? A: Basic plug-and-play operation often requires no advanced configuration. If your network uses VLANs, QoS policies, or link aggregation, you may need to configure those settings in the switch or router as you would with other 50G uplinks. If a port does not auto-negotiate, verify speed settings and ensure the correct SFP56 profile is active on the device.