United States
Q
What types of Brocade fiber optic cables are available?
A
Brocade fiber optic cables include single-mode OS2 and multimode OM3/OM4 variants with LC-LC, LC-SC, and MPO connectors, supporting 16G/32G/64G Fibre Channel and 10G/40G Ethernet.
Q
What direct attach copper (DAC) cables does Brocade offer?
A
Brocade DAC cables are available in passive and active SFP+ (10 GbE/16 GFC) and QSFP+ (40 GbE/32 GFC) formats, in fixed lengths from 0.5 m to 7 m, delivering low-latency, cost-effective connectivity.
Q
Which Brocade transceiver modules are supported?
A
Brocade supports SFP+, SFP28, QSFP+, QSFP28 and XFP transceivers for 10G–100G Ethernet and 16G–64G Fibre Channel, including CWDM/DWDM options for extended reach.
Q
What Brocade host bus adapters (HBAs) are available?
A
Brocade HBAs include 16G/32G Fibre Channel PCIe adapters (e.g., 1860, 1870 series) offering hardware offload, multipath I/O support, and virtual machine integration.
Q
How do I choose the right Brocade cable for my SAN?
A
Select Brocade cables based on port speed, distance, media type and connector. Use single-mode OS2 for long-haul, multimode OM3/OM4 for shorter links, and DAC for up to 7 m copper runs.
Q
What is the difference between passive and active DAC cables?
A
Passive DACs use fixed copper wiring for short links (<3 m), while active DACs incorporate signal conditioning for longer distances (up to 7 m) and improved signal integrity.
Q
What cable lengths do Brocade cables support?
A
Brocade offers fiber cables from 1 m to 100 m, passive DACs from 0.5 m to 3 m, active DACs from 1 m to 7 m, and custom assemblies upon request.
Q
Are Brocade cables and adapters compatible with third-party switches?
A
Yes. Brocade cables, DACs and transceivers comply with industry standards (SFF, MSA) and interoperate with certified third-party switches and HBAs.
Q
How do I install a Brocade transceiver or cable?
A
Insert the transceiver into the SFP/QSFP port until it clicks, then attach the fiber or DAC cable. Verify link lights and use Brocade SANnav or CLI to confirm port status.
Q
How should I clean Brocade fiber optic connectors?
A
Use lint-free wipes and isopropyl alcohol or dedicated fiber-optic cleaning pens. Clean both end faces before mating and perform visual inspection with a fiber microscope.
Q
What troubleshooting steps resolve Brocade link issues?
A
Check LED status, verify cable type and length, inspect connectors for damage, confirm port configuration via CLI, and replace suspect cables or modules.
Q
How can I verify genuine Brocade cables and adapters?
A
Inspect serial numbers and holographic labels, validate part numbers against Brocade’s compatibility matrix, and purchase through authorized Brocade partners.
Q
What warranty and support options are available for Brocade cables?
A
Brocade cables and adapters carry a limited lifetime warranty. Premium support contracts offer expedited RMA, software upgrades and 24×7 technical assistance.
Q
Can I order custom-length Brocade cable assemblies?
A
Yes. Brocade offers custom fiber and copper cable assemblies in specific lengths and connector configurations through its authorized OEM and distribution channels.
Q
What performance specifications define Brocade adapters?
A
Brocade adapters deliver line-rate throughput, <2 µs latency, 99.999% availability, hardware iSCSI/FC offload, NPIV, security features and support for RDMA technologies.
Q
Are Brocade cables and transceivers hot-swappable?
A
Yes. Brocade fiber, DAC cables and transceivers support hot-swap operations without powering down the switch, enabling non-disruptive maintenance.
Q
What environmental conditions do Brocade cables and adapters require?
A
Operating temperature: 0–70 °C, storage: –40–85 °C, humidity: 5–85% non-condensing. Refer to product datasheets for altitude and vibration tolerances.
