HPE Expansion Module for HP 7500 Switch – 2.4 Tbps Fabric, 8 x 1/10 GbE SFP+, 2 x 40 GbE QSFP+

The HPE Expansion Module is engineered to unlock the full potential of your HP 7500 switch by adding vast, scalable fabric capacity and flexible port options. Featuring a robust 2.4 Tbps fabric and a dedicated main processing unit, this module is designed to meet the demands of modern data centers, campuses, and enterprise networks. It delivers high-throughput performance, low-latency traffic movement, and streamlined management for mixed workloads such as data center interconnect, virtualization, cloud access, and large-scale campus networking. With 8-port 1/10 GbE SFP+ and 2-port 40 GbE QSFP+ slots, this expansion module provides dense, adaptable connectivity that can grow with your organization while preserving your existing HP infrastructure. Built to support 10GBase-X technology, it enables up to 10 Gbps data transfer rates per link, empowering you to scale without sacrificing reliability or control. Whether you’re expanding capacity at the access layer, boosting uplink bandwidth, or implementing high-availability architectures, this module is designed to deliver consistent, predictable performance and ease of deployment.

• Unmatched scalability with a 2.4 Tbps Fabric and a dedicated Main Processing Unit, delivering wire-speed forwarding for large-scale traffic and minimizing bottlenecks across core-to-edge paths. This backbone capacity supports multi-service workloads, including virtualization, security policies, and real-time telemetry, so your network can grow without a costly hardware refresh. The architecture is designed to handle peak traffic bursts and complex traffic patterns with precision, enabling you to consolidate services and reduce latency across the network.
• Versatile port configuration that combines 8 x 1/10 GbE SFP+ ports with 2 x 40 GbE QSFP+ ports. This flexible mix lets you deploy dense access connectivity while provisioning high-bandwidth uplinks to the core or data center fabric. It simplifies segmentation, supports VLAN-rich environments, and provides room for future expansion as your workloads—such as server virtualization, database clustering, and backup replication—require more bandwidth per link.
• Seamless integration with the HP 7500Switch ecosystem, including compatibility with existing management tools and policies. The expansion module is designed to slot into your current chassis and integrate with HP’s network orchestration, monitoring, and fault-management frameworks. This translates into streamlined provisioning, consistent firmware levels, and centralized visibility for faster troubleshooting and improved IT efficiency.
• 10GBase-X readiness delivers up to 10 Gbps data transfer per link, enabling high-speed, low-latency connectivity for demanding workloads. This capability is ideal for workloads that demand quick, reliable access to storage networks, distributed computing resources, and real-time analytics. Paired with the 40 GbE QSFP+ uplinks, you gain a balanced, scalable architecture capable of handling sudden spikes in traffic without compromising performance.
• Future-proof, modular expansion that reduces forklift upgrades and preserves your investment in HP infrastructure. The module’s architecture supports ongoing software-defined networking (SDN) integrations, evolving security features, and capacity growth as your organization expands. This design philosophy keeps your network agile, supporting new services and connectivity models without forcing disruptive, large-scale hardware overhauls.

Technical Details of HPE Expansion Module

• Fabric capacity: 2.4 Tbps
• Main Processing Unit: integrated for high-efficiency data handling
• Compatibility: designed for the HP 7500 Switch family
• Ports: 8 x 1/10 GbE SFP+; 2 x 40 GbE QSFP+
• Networking technology: 10GBase-X capable, delivering up to 10 Gbps per link
• Form factor: expansion module designed to slot into compatible HP chassis
• Power and cooling: engineered for standard data-center environments with appropriate thermal management

How to Install HPE Expansion Module

• Power down the HP 7500 switch and disconnect it from the power source to ensure safe installation.
• Open the chassis or access panel and locate the dedicated expansion slot designed for the HPE Expansion Module.
• Gently align the module with the slot and insert it until it seats securely, then secure any latches or fasteners as required by your chassis.
• Reconnect power and boot the switch, then enter the management console to confirm the module is detected and operating properly.
• Configure interfaces: assign VLANs, set up link aggregation if needed, enable 10GBase-X links, and apply QoS, security policies, and monitoring profiles through your standard network management workflow.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the purpose of the 2.4 Tbps fabric in the HPE Expansion Module?
  A: The 2.4 Tbps fabric provides a high-capacity internal backbone that enables rapid data movement across the module’s ports, reducing congestion, improving throughput, and supporting multiple concurrent services such as virtualization, security, and analytics without bottlenecks.
• Q: How many ports does the module offer and what types are they?
  A: The module includes 8 ports of 1/10 GbE SFP+ and 2 ports of 40 GbE QSFP+. This mix supports dense access connectivity at 10 GbE levels and fast uplinks to the core or data center fabric with 40 GbE capacity.
• Q: Is this expansion module compatible with all HP 7500 Switch models?
  A: It is designed for use with the HP 7500 Switch family and should be deployed in supported chassis configurations and firmware baselines as specified by HP documentation and product support.
• Q: Does the module support 10GBase-X technology?
  A: Yes, the module supports 10GBase-X, delivering up to 10 Gbps per link when connected to compatible devices, which helps meet the performance demands of modern workloads.
• Q: How should I approach installation and initial configuration?
  A: Follow standard safety procedures for power-down installation, physically install the module into the designated slot, verify detection in the management console, and configure interfaces, VLANs, QoS, and monitoring according to your network design and security policies.