HPE 8400X 6-port 40GbE/100GbE QSFP28 Advanced Module

Elevate your data center’s optical and data networking capabilities with the HPE 8400X 6-port 40GbE/100GbE QSFP28 Advanced Module. Engineered for high-density environments, this expansion module delivers flexible, scalable connectivity across the core of your network. Designed to meet the demands of modern enterprises, cloud providers, and service providers, it enables seamless integration into HPE’s 8400X platform, unlocking rapid adaptation to evolving traffic patterns. With 6 QSFP28 ports that support both 40 Gigabit Ethernet and 100 Gigabit Ethernet, this module is a strategic solution for consolidating rack space, reducing cabling complexity, and accelerating your path to 100G/40G connectivity in data centers and campus networks.

• High-density expansion for mission-critical networks: The HPE 8400X Advanced Module provides six QSFP28 interfaces in a compact footprint, enabling you to maximize port density without expanding the chassis footprint. Perfect for data centers requiring scalable, future-proof 100G/40G connectivity across spine-leaf architectures, core networks, and aggregation layers.
• Flexible 40G/100G Ethernet capabilities: Each port supports both 40 Gigabit and 100 Gigabit Ethernet, giving you the versatility to tailor bandwidth to your workloads. This flexibility is ideal for provisioning large-scale data transfers, storage backbones, and latency-sensitive applications where consistent, high-throughput performance matters.
• Robust, enterprise-grade reliability: Built for continuous operation in demanding environments, the Advanced Module meets stringent industry standards and is designed to deliver dependable performance, low error rates, and stable throughput for extended service windows. It’s engineered to withstand the rigors of dense network deployments while maintaining consistent efficiency.
• Seamless compatibility with HPE 8400X platforms: Engineered as a purpose-built expansion module for HPE switches and routers in the 8400X family, it integrates smoothly with existing configurations, management tools, and service contracts. This ensures simplified deployment, management, and ongoing support across your network lifecycle.
• Optimized for optical and data networking workloads: The module is designed to handle high-bandwidth optical networks and data networking tasks, delivering reliable performance for data center interconnect (DCI), campus backbones, and service-provider backhaul. Its QSFP28 form factor and 100GBase-X capabilities help organizations scale efficiently as traffic grows.

Technical Details of HPE 8400X 6-port 40GbE/100GbE QSFP28 Advanced Module

• Product type: QSFP28 expansion module for optical network and data networking applications
• Ports: 6 QSFP28 ports, each supporting 40GbE or 100GbE (10/25/40/100G signaling not guaranteed across all configurations; verify with your transceivers and cables)
• Interface standard: 100GBase-X capable; optimized for high-throughput, low-latency traffic across data center fabrics
• Compatibility: Designed for HPE 8400X series switches/routers and compatible chassis where the 6-port QSFP28 expansion slot is available
• Form factor: Expansion module with QSFP28 connectors; intended for internal rack deployment within compatible HPE environments
• Performance characteristics: High-density, scalable bandwidth with robust reliability for enterprise-grade data centers, cloud networks, and service provider backbones
• IEEE and industry support: Built to align with modern Ethernet standards and interoperability requirements for 40G/100G deployments

how to install HPE 8400X 6-port 40GbE/100GbE QSFP28 Advanced Module

• Prepare the chassis: Power down the chassis or follow hot-swap procedures as recommended by HPE for your specific model. Ensure you follow electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions before handling the module.
• Verify compatibility: Confirm that your HPE 8400X chassis has an available 6-port QSFP28 expansion slot and that the firmware/software on the chassis supports the Advanced Module.
• Install the expansion module: Align the module with the expansion slot and firmly seat it into place. Ensure any locking mechanism engages to secure the module.
• Connect fiber and transceivers: Attach the appropriate QSFP28 transceivers and fiber cables to the six ports, following your network design for SR4/LR4 or other applicable configurations. Use proper fiber routing to minimize crosstalk and maintain link integrity.
• Power up and configure: Power on the chassis, access the management interface, and verify port status. Configure each port for the desired speed (40G or 100G), duplex settings, and any required VLANs or QoS policies. Validate connectivity across the fabric by running throughput and latency tests.
• Monitor and manage: Use your network management tools to monitor port health, error counters, and performance metrics. Apply firmware updates as required to ensure ongoing compatibility and reliability with your 8400X environment.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the primary purpose of the HPE 8400X 6-port QSFP28 Advanced Module?
A: It serves as a high-density expansion module that adds six QSFP28 ports to an HPE 8400X chassis, enabling scalable 40G/100G optical network and data networking connectivity in data centers and enterprise networks.

Q: Which environments is this module best suited for?
A: It is ideal for data centers, cloud networks, and service provider backbones that require flexible, high-bandwidth connectivity, efficient cabling, and rapid deployment of 100G/40G links within HPE-based infrastructure.

Q: How many ports does the module provide and what speeds are supported?
A: The module provides six QSFP28 ports, each capable of supporting 40G or 100G Ethernet depending on the transceivers, cables, and configuration used in the network.

Q: Is the module hot-swappable?
A: In compatible HPE 8400X environments, expansion modules like this are designed to support streamlined installation and maintenance, including hot-swappable operations as part of standard best practices. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for safe replacement.

Q: Does this module require special management software?
A: Management and monitoring are integrated with the HPE 8400X management stack. You will typically configure and monitor ports using the chassis’s built-in management interface or compatible network management tools, ensuring proper alignment with your network policies.

Q: Are there firmware requirements I should be aware of?
A: Yes, ensure the chassis firmware and the module’s firmware are compatible. Keeping firmware up to date helps maximize performance, compatibility with transceivers, and reliability across your 100G/40G deployments.