StarTech.com Brocade 40G-QSFP-SR4 Compatible QSFP+ Module - 40GBASE-SR4 - 40GE QSFP+ 40GbE MMF Transceiver 150m DDM

The StarTech.com Brocade 40G-QSFP-SR4 Compatible QSFP+ Module is a high-performance, plug-and-play transceiver designed to deliver reliable 40 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity over multimode fiber. Engineered to emulate the capabilities of the Broadcom/Brocade SR4 specification, this 40GBASE-SR4 QSFP+ module provides robust, low-latency links for data centers, enterprise campuses, and high-performance computing networks. With Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM) support, it offers real-time insights into link health, insertion loss, temperature, and optical power, empowering IT teams to monitor and maintain link integrity proactively. Built to the standards of industry-leading brands, this module is ideal for upgrading legacy infrastructure, expanding capacity, or replacing aging transceivers without vendor lock-in, all while maintaining compatibility with Brocade switches and routers in mixed-vendor environments. The 150m distance rating on multimode fiber (MMF) makes it suitable for data center interconnects, server-to-switch uplinks, and top-of-rack deployments that require high-bandwidth, scalable 40 GbE connectivity.

• Compatibility and performance: This SR4-compatible QSFP+ transceiver supports 40GBASE-SR4, delivering 40 Gbps of full-duplex bandwidth across four parallel multimode fiber lanes. It is designed to work seamlessly with StarTech.com’s ecosystem and is tested to ensure reliable operation with Brocade brand switches and routers, providing a cost-effective way to refresh or scale your 40 GbE networks without changing your core infrastructure. The module uses four 10 Gbps lanes that aggregate to 40 Gbps, enabling high-density uplinks in collapsed cores, leaf-spine topologies, and storage networks. Optimized for multimode fiber, it supports common MMF configurations, including OM3 and OM4, which are widely deployed in data centers for real-time data streaming, virtualization, and high-throughput applications. With DDM, administrators can monitor optical power, transceiver temperature, laser bias current, and other critical parameters to prevent unexpected link outages, enabling proactive maintenance and faster mean time to repair (MTTR).
• Distance, fiber type, and spectrum: The 40G-QSFP-SR4 module is specified for multi-mode fiber with an SR4 optical link, typically achieving up to 150 meters on OM3 and longer distances on OM4 fiber. This makes it an excellent choice for intra-data-center links, server-to-switch connections, and inter-rack communications where high bandwidth is essential but fiber runs are moderate. The 850 nm VCSEL-based design supports short-reach, high-density deployments, and the four parallel lanes help minimize crosstalk and enable reliable operation in dense fiber environments. For facilities already using MMF infrastructure, this module delivers an efficient upgrade path to 40 GbE without costly fiber changes or reconfiguration of existing networks.
• Diagnostics and management: Built with Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM) capabilities, the transceiver provides real-time data on optical transceiver conditions, including temperature, supply voltages, bias current, optical output power, and received optical power. This visibility allows proactive monitoring, quick fault diagnosis, and precise capacity planning. The DDM support also helps operators confirm link integrity during installation and troubleshooting, reducing network downtime and accelerating deployment cycles in busy data centers. In addition, the module is designed with robust signaling and error-handling features to maintain high reliability in demanding environments, even under thermal or optical stress conditions.
• Installation and compatibility: This StarTech.com module is designed for straightforward, plug-and-play installation. It adheres to the 40GBASE-SR4 specification and is compatible with Brocade switches and routers as well as other vendor platforms that support SR4 transceivers. The form factor is QSFP+ (208-pin), enabling hot-swapping in standard QSFP+ ports without requiring changes to the host system or firmware. The module supports standard MPO/MTP-based MMF cabling for SR4 configurations and is RoHS compliant, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility and safe handling in data centers and office environments. Operators can expect a smooth fit into existing QSFP+ cages, with clear LED indicators for link status and activity on compatible devices.
• Reliability, warranty, and use cases: StarTech.com is known for dependable hardware and strong support. The 40G-QSFP-SR4-compatible transceiver is designed for long-term operation in demanding environments, with rigorous testing to ensure compatibility with Brocade equipment and a wide range of SR4 network deployments. It is an ideal choice for data centers modernizing their backend connectivity, enterprise campus networks requiring scalable uplinks, small to mid-size storage networks, and HPC environments that demand consistent 40 GbE performance. The module’s durable construction, compliance with industry standards, and diagnostic capabilities contribute to a lower total cost of ownership, minimal downtime, and simpler network management over the device’s lifecycle.

Technical Details of StarTech.com Brocade 40G-QSFP-SR4 Compatible QSFP+ Module

• Product Type: QSFP+ transceiver module for 40GBASE-SR4
• Data Rate: 40 Gbps aggregate (4 x 10 Gbps lanes)
• Interface: QSFP+ (4x10 Gbps lanes) with MSAs compatible with Brocade infrastructure
• Fiber Type: Multimode Fiber (MMF) — OM3/OM4 compatible
• Distance: Up to 150 meters on MMF (typical SR4 performance; actual distance depends on fiber type and installation)
• Wavelength: 850 nm VCSEL transmitters
• Connector: MPO/MTP 12-fiber interface for SR4 standard cabling
• Diagnostics: Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM) for real-time optical and electrical parameters
• Hot-Swap: Yes; maintainable with standard QSFP+ ports
• Compliance: IEEE 802.3ba 40GBASE-SR4; RoHS compliant
• Compatibility: Designed to be compatible with Brocade-brand switches and routers as well as other vendors supporting SR4 transceivers
• Operating Environment: Standard data-center conditions; verify device-specific temperature and humidity requirements

how to install StarTech.com Brocade 40G-QSFP-SR4 Compatible QSFP+ Module

• 1. Power down the switch or router and unplug from power to ensure a safe installation environment.
• 2. Locate an available QSFP+ port or remove the existing transceiver if you are replacing an old module.
• 3. Align the transceiver with the QSFP+ cage and gently insert it until it seats fully and the locking mechanism engages. Do not force it; if it does not seat, remove and reinsert.
• 4. Connect the multimode fiber patch cable to the transceiver’s MPO/MTP connector using the appropriate MPO-to-MPO or MPO-to-LC harness as required by your network cabling setup. Ensure the patch cable is clean, with no dust or damage on connectors.
• 5. Reconnect power and power on the device. The link LED indicators on the switch should illuminate to indicate a successful connection. Use the device’s management interface to verify the 40GbE link status and to confirm traffic is flowing across the SR4 interface. If available, consult the DDMMonitor to review optical power and temperature readings for continued healthy operation.
• 6. If the link does not come up, reseat the module, verify fiber polarity and connector cleanliness, and confirm that the port is configured for 40GBASE-SR4 operation. In mixed-vendor environments, ensure any device-specific compatibility settings are enabled and that the port is not administratively blocked.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: Is this module compatible with Brocade switches?
• A: Yes. The StarTech.com 40G-QSFP-SR4 Compatible QSFP+ Module is designed to work with Brocade brand switches and routers that support 40GBASE-SR4 SR4 transceivers, delivering reliable 40 GbE connectivity over MMF.
• Q: What type of fiber does it support?
• A: It supports multimode fiber (MMF), typically OM3 or OM4, optimized for SR4 short-reach links up to 150 meters depending on fiber type and installation conditions.
• Q: What is the distance capability?
• A: The module is rated for up to 150 meters on MMF in SR4 configurations; actual distance can vary based on fiber quality, connector cleanliness, and network topology.
• Q: Does it require drivers or special software?
• A: No additional drivers are required for standard SR4 operation. It is designed as a plug-and-play transceiver that follows industry standards and is compatible with devices that support SR4 QSFP+ modules.
• Q: What is the benefit of DDM on this transceiver?
• A: Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM) provides real-time feedback on key optical and electrical parameters. This enables proactive monitoring, quicker fault isolation, and improved maintenance planning, which helps reduce downtime in data centers and enterprise networks.
• Q: Is it covered by warranty?
• A: StarTech.com offers its standard warranty terms on transceiver modules, presenting a reliable option for data-center-grade deployments and long-term network investments.