StarTech.com Dell EMC SFP-1G-BX80-U Compatible SFP Module - 1000BASE-BX-U BiDi Fiber (SMF)

Elevate your Dell EMC network infrastructure with the StarTech.com Dell EMC SFP-1G-BX80-U Compatible SFP Module. This 1000BASE-BX-U BiDi fiber transceiver delivers reliable, high-performance Gigabit Ethernet over single-mode fiber, while optimizing your fiber plant with a single-fiber, bi-directional link. Designed to plug into Dell EMC switches and routers, this SFP module combines enterprise-grade reliability with easy deployment, making it an ideal choice for campus cores, data centers, and edge deployments where long-reach fiber connections are essential. Whether you’re upgrading an aging link, expanding a backbone, or implementing a greenfield deployment, this StarTech SFP module provides a cost-effective, future-ready solution that respects your existing Dell equipment and fiber infrastructure.

• 1 Gbps BiDi SFP transceiver (1000BASE-BX-U) for Dell EMC networks: This compact SFP module uses bi-directional optics to send and receive data over a single fiber strand. By employing different wavelengths for transmit (1310 nm) and receive (1550 nm), it significantly reduces fiber cabling requirements while maintaining full-duplex, high-speed performance for managed networks. It’s the perfect fit for Dell EMC switches and routers that demand dependable Gigabit Ethernet with minimal fiber congestion and streamlined fiber management.
• Long-reach, single-fiber operation up to 80 km: The BX80-U designation targets longer-haul links, enabling connections across campuses or between data center buildings without the need for multiple fibers. This capability is particularly valuable for remote access, disaster recovery links, and backbone connectivity, where fiber distance and signal integrity are critical. The BiDi design helps you maximize fiber efficiency while preserving link quality across your network.
• Dell EMC compatibility and industry-standard reliability: Engineered to align with Dell EMC SFP specifications, this StarTech module is designed to slip into Dell EMC-compatible environments with plug-and-play ease. Built to the MSA standard and rigorously tested for compatibility, it delivers dependable performance across a wide range of Dell EMC switches, routers, and fiber-optic infrastructures. You can trust it to work alongside existing Dell hardware without costly compatibility surprises.
• Low-profile, hot-swappable design with monitor support: The SFP module is hot-swappable, enabling non-disruptive upgrades and maintenance without powering down devices. It supports Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM), giving administrators real-time visibility into optical transceiver health, temperature, bias current, transmitted optical power, and received optical power. This visibility helps you anticipate failures, optimize link performance, and simplify network operations.
• Easy deployment, robust performance, and future-proofing: With a standard LC duplex connector and compatibility with a broad ecosystem of SFP-enabled devices, this module simplifies deployment and future upgrades. Its BiDi chemistry reduces fiber management overhead while delivering gigabit performance that aligns with modern, scalable networks. The module’s rugged design and tight tolerances ensure stable operation in typical data center and campus environments, making it a practical long-term investment for growing networks.

Technical Details of [product]

• Data rate: 1 Gbps
• Standard: 1000BASE-BX-U
• Transmitter wavelength: 1310 nm
• Receiver wavelength: 1550 nm
• Fiber type: Single-mode fiber (SMF)
• Connector: LC duplex
• Distance: Up to 80 km
• Form factor: SFP transceiver
• MD monitoring: Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM) support
• MSA-compliant: Yes
• Hot-swappable: Yes
• Operating temperature: 0°C to 70°C (typical for standard data-center environments)

how to install [product]

Installing the StarTech.com Dell EMC SFP-1G-BX80-U is straightforward and designed to minimize downtime. Follow these steps to ensure a successful deployment:

1) Power down is not always required for hot-swappable SFPs, but plan for maintenance windows if you are upgrading an active link. Identify the correct Dell EMC switch or router port that will host the SFP module and determine the appropriate fiber path to the remote device.

2) Inspect the SFP slot and align the module with the connector side facing the device. Hold the module by its edges and gently insert it into the SFP slot until it seats securely with a click. Avoid excessive force, and ensure the module is oriented correctly to match the port type (SFP in the switch, LC connectors facing outward).

3) Prepare your fiber patch cable. For BX-U BiDi operation, you will use a single-mode fiber with LC duplex connectors. Connect the LC duplex end to the SFP module on the local device and the other end to the corresponding port on the remote device, ensuring the correct Tx/Rx alignment. Unlike traditional duplex fiber, BiDi relies on the wavelength separation; there is no need for two separate fibers on the same link when endpoints are configured correctly.

4) Power up the device (if you powered down) and verify link status. On most Dell EMC devices, you can check the port status via the management interface (CLI or GUI). The link should come up at 1 Gbps, with DOM providing real-time status if supported by the device. If the link does not come up, re-check the fiber connections, verify the correct TX/RX pairing, and confirm that both ends are configured for 1000BASE-BX-U operation.

5) Enable optional monitoring and diagnostics. If your Dell EMC ports support DOM or similar monitoring features, enable them to track optical power, temperature, and signal integrity. This helps you monitor the health of the link over time and quickly respond to any degradation that might affect performance.

6) Document the installation for future maintenance. Record cable routes, endpoint devices, and port configurations. Keeping a record of the fiber path and device pairing simplifies future upgrades, replacements, or troubleshooting, and helps you maintain optimal network reliability.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is 1000BASE-BX-U BiDi? A: 1000BASE-BX-U is a Bi-Directional fiber transceiver standard that uses different wavelengths for transmit and receive over a single-mode fiber. It enables full-duplex Gigabit Ethernet over a single fiber pair by separating the TX and RX channels spectrally, reducing fiber count and simplifying fiber management.
• Q: Is this StarTech module compatible with Dell EMC switches? A: Yes. The module is described as Dell EMC SFP-1G-BX80-U compatible, and it is designed to work with Dell EMC switches and routers that support 1000BASE-BX-U BiDi SFPs.
• Q: What distance can I cover with BX80-U? A: The BX80-U variant is designed for long-haul links, with reach up to 80 kilometers over single-mode fiber, depending on the fiber quality, connector quality, and network equipment.
• Q: Does this SFP support DOM? A: Yes. Digital Optical Monitoring is supported on this module, providing real-time metrics for transmitter power, received power, temperature, and other optical parameters where the host device supports DOM.
• Q: Do I need two fiber strands for BiDi? A: No. BiDi over BX-U uses one fiber strand with separate wavelengths for TX and RX. Ensure compatibility with the remote end and proper configuration on both devices to utilize the single-fiber BiDi link.