StarTech.com Cisco SFP-10G-BX-D-20 Compatible SFP+ Module - 10GBASE-BX BiDi SMF Transceiver

Upgrade your Cisco network with a reliable, plug‑and‑play 10 Gigabit Ethernet transceiver engineered for BiDi (Bi-Directional) single‑mode fiber. The StarTech.com SFP-10G-BX-D-20 compatible SFP+ module delivers seamless 10GBASE-BX downlink performance, pairing perfectly with StarTech’s SFP-10G-BX-U-20-ST for a complete BX-D/BX-U solution. This transceiver is designed, programmed and tested to work with 10GBase-BX compatible Cisco switches and routers, offering a practical, cost‑effective upgrade path for high‑bandwidth links, data center uplinks, and campus networks. When you need a dependable, cross‑vendor compatible solution for BX optics, this module stands out for its reliability, quick deployment, and robust performance in mixed environments.

• High‑performance 10GBASE‑BX Downlink SFP+ module designed for BiDi single‑mode fiber, enabling efficient use of fiber strands by transmitting on one wavelength and receiving on another.
• BiDi technology with distinct TX and RX wavelengths ensures reduced fiber count and simplified link budgeting in fiber‑rich networks, delivering full 10 Gbps throughput over SMF.
• Designed for Cisco BX‑D deployments and tested to work with Cisco switches and routers, providing a compatible, plug‑and‑play upgrade path for enterprise and data center environments.
• Cross‑vendor compatibility: pairs with StarTech’s BX‑U module to create a complete BX fiber link, while remaining compatible with other BX‑D capable devices that adhere to SFP+ and 10GBASE‑BX standards.
• MSA compliant SFP+ form factor with an LC duplex connector, hot‑swappable in supported SFP+ slots, enabling minimal downtime during maintenance or upgrades.

Technical Details of StarTech.com Cisco SFP-10G-BX-D-20 Compatible SFP+ Module

• Product type: SFP+ transceiver module (SFP+ form factor)
• Standard: 10GBASE‑BX‑D (BiDi, downstream) protocol for SMF
• Fiber type: Single‑mode fiber (SMF)
• Wavelengths: TX and RX wavelengths dedicated to BiDi operation (TX at one wavelength, RX at another) to support two‑fiber BiDi links
• Connector: LC duplex
• Data rate: 10 Gbps (10GBASE‑BX‑D) over BiDi SMF
• Distance: Suitable for typical SMF deployments up to several kilometers, with performance dependent on fiber quality and link budget
• Compatibility: Cisco BX‑D downlink optics; designed to pair with StarTech BX‑U uplink module (SFP‑10G‑BX‑U‑20‑ST) for complete BX‑D/BX‑U configurations
• Interoperability: MSA compliant and widely compatible with devices that support 10GBASE‑BX optics and SFP+ transceivers
• Form factor standard: SFP+ (small form factor pluggable Plus) designed for hot‑swap in compatible switches and routers

How to install StarTech.com Cisco SFP-10G-BX-D-20 Compatible SFP+ Module

Installing this SFP+ module is straightforward and designed to be quick and non‑disruptive in compatible Cisco devices. Follow these steps to ensure a proper, reliable link:

• Identify an available SFP+ slot on a Cisco switch or router that supports 10GBASE BX optics and BiDi SFP+ modules.
• Power down the device only if required by your maintenance policy; in many cases, BX optics are hot‑swappable and can be changed with the system powered on.
• Align the SFP+ module with the slot, ensuring the notch and connector edge are oriented correctly. Gently insert until it sits firmly in place with a light click.
• Connect the appropriate single‑mode fiber pair using LC duplex cables. Ensure TX on one side corresponds to RX on the opposite side according to your network design (TX/RX direction as documented for BX links).
• Power on the device (or allow it to boot). Most supported devices will recognize the new transceiver automatically, and link status should show within seconds. Use the device’s management interface to verify the 10G link is active and the correct optical parameters are reported.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What devices is this transceiver compatible with?

A: This StarTech.com SFP+ module is designed to be compatible with Cisco 10GBASE BX‑D optics and is tested to work with Cisco switches and routers that support BX‑D BiDi SFP+ modules. It is also intended to pair with StarTech’s BX‑U counterpart for complete BX downlink/upLink configurations. For best results, verify device compatibility from Cisco documentation and StarTech’s compatibility notes.

Q: What fiber type and connector are required?

A: The module uses single‑mode fiber (SMF) with a duplex LC connector. It is designed for BiDi operation, which utilizes two wavelengths on a single fiber pair to achieve 10 Gbps over SMF.

Q: Do I need any special configuration?

A: In most installations, the module operates as a plug‑and‑play optic within BX‑D capable devices. No special configuration is required, but you should verify the link budget, fiber length, and wavelengths listed in your device documentation. If the link does not come up automatically, check fiber integrity and confirm TX/RX pair orientation.

Q: What is the typical reach of this BX‑D transceiver?

A: BiDi BX transceivers are designed for long‑haul SMF links. Typical deployments support multi‑kilometer distances (often up to 10 km and beyond on quality fiber), but actual reach depends on fiber type, quality, connector losses, and network budget. Consult your network design specs for precise expectations.

Q: Can this module be used with non‑Cisco equipment?

A: While the module is designed for Cisco BX‑D systems and has been tested in Cisco environments, it adheres to SFP+ and BX optical standards. It may work in other vendors’ equipment that supports 10GBASE BX optics, but interoperability is not guaranteed across all devices. Always verify compatibility with your equipment vendor before deployment.

Q: Is this a hot‑swappable component?

A: Yes. SFP+ transceivers like this StarTech BX‑D module are hot‑swappable in compatible SFP+ slots, meaning you can replace or upgrade without powering down the entire device in many cases. Follow your device manufacturer’s best practices for hot‑swap operations to minimize risk and downtime.

Whether you’re upgrading a core uplink, expanding a data center spine, or adding a campus backbone, the StarTech.com Cisco SFP-10G-BX-D-20 compatible SFP+ module delivers the rugged reliability and straightforward deployment you expect from BX optics. Its BiDi design helps maximize fiber utilization while delivering true 10 Gbps performance over single‑mode fiber, enabling fast, scalable growth for modern networks. This module is a smart choice for IT teams seeking Cisco‑friendly BX optics that maintain compatibility with StarTech’s ecosystem, simplifying procurement and maintenance across mixed‑vendor environments. Ready to implement into your BX‑D pathway, it offers a streamlined, future‑proof option for high‑speed interconnects that demand consistent, dependable fiber performance.