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Q
What is a Cisco XENPAK Module?
A
A Cisco XENPAK Module is a hot-pluggable 10 Gigabit Ethernet optical transceiver that enables high-speed fiber or copper connectivity in Cisco switches and routers.
Q
Which data rates and link distances does Cisco XENPAK support?
A
Cisco XENPAK supports 10Gbps speeds with SR links up to 300 m on OM3 multimode fiber, LR links up to 10 km on single-mode fiber, and extended-reach variants up to 80 km.
Q
Which Cisco platforms are compatible with XENPAK Modules?
A
Cisco XENPAK is supported on Catalyst 6500/7600, 4500E, ASR 9000, MDS 9000 and selected UCS Fabric Interconnects; refer to the Cisco compatibility matrix for full details.
Q
How do I install a Cisco XENPAK Module?
A
Power down the target port or ensure hot-swap support, align the module keyed notch with the slot, insert firmly until it clicks, then verify detection via the device CLI.
Q
Are Cisco XENPAK Modules hot-swappable?
A
Yes, XENPAK Modules support hot-swap insertion and removal without powering down the entire device, minimizing service disruption.
Q
What fiber types and connectors does Cisco XENPAK support?
A
XENPAK Modules use LC connectors and support multimode (OM1-OM4) and single-mode (OS1/OS2) fiber, depending on the specific SR, LR or ER variant.
Q
How can I verify the status of a Cisco XENPAK Module?
A
Use IOS commands such as ‘show interface transceiver’ or ‘show hw-module subslot [slot] transceiver details’ to view module diagnostics, temperature and optical power levels.
Q
What are the differences between Cisco XENPAK and X2 Modules?
A
X2 is a smaller, lower-power 10GbE form factor introduced after XENPAK; both offer 10 Gbps connectivity, but X2 reduces slot space and power consumption.
Q
Can I use third-party or generic Cisco XENPAK Modules?
A
Cisco recommends genuine XENPAK Modules; unsupported third-party optics may cause compatibility issues, degrade performance and void warranties.
Q
How do I troubleshoot a non-detected Cisco XENPAK Module?
A
Ensure module-to-device compatibility, reseat the module, confirm supported IOS version, inspect fiber cabling, then review CLI error logs via ‘show interface transceiver errors’.
Q
Is the Cisco XENPAK Module end-of-life and what are the alternatives?
A
Cisco has declared XENPAK EOL; consider migrating to SFP+ or X2/SFP10G form factors for future 10 GbE deployments and easier procurement.
Q
How do I update firmware on a Cisco XENPAK Module?
A
XENPAK firmware is embedded and auto-upgraded by the switch or router IOS; ensure your device runs the recommended IOS release for optical support.
Q
What is the typical power consumption of a Cisco XENPAK Module?
A
Power varies by type: 10G SR modules draw around 3.5 W, LR modules up to 5.5 W, and ER modules up to 10 W; refer to the module datasheet for exact figures.
Q
How do I order genuine Cisco XENPAK Modules?
A
Order through authorized Cisco partners or the Cisco Commerce Workspace using part numbers like XENPAK-10G-SR or XENPAK-10G-LR to ensure authenticity.
Q
Can Cisco XENPAK Modules support CWDM or DWDM applications?
A
Certain DWDM/CWDM-enabled XENPAK variants exist; verify wavelength tuning capabilities and part number specifications in Cisco’s optics catalog.
Q
How do I ensure secure data transmission with Cisco XENPAK Modules?
A
Implement MACsec encryption on 10 GbE links, use secure fiber routes and consider optics with built-in diagnostic monitoring to detect physical tampering.
