United States
Q
What is an HPE compatible QSFP28 transceiver?
A
An HPE compatible QSFP28 transceiver is a third-party 100 Gb/s optical or DAC module designed to interoperate seamlessly with HPE switches, routers and NICs while meeting HPE’s hardware specifications and firmware requirements.
Q
Which HPE switches support QSFP28 modules?
A
HPE ProCurve, Aruba CX and HPE FlexNetwork series switches with 100 Gb/s uplink or line-card slots support QSFP28 modules; always verify compatibility in the HPE Quick Specs for your specific switch model.
Q
What data rates does QSFP28 support?
A
QSFP28 supports four lanes at 25 Gb/s each, delivering an aggregate 100 Gb/s data rate, making it ideal for high-performance computing, hyperscale data centers and enterprise backbone links.
Q
Which fiber and distance options are available for HPE compatible QSFP28?
A
Common options include 100GBASE-SR4 for multimode up to 100 m, 100GBASE-LR4 for single-mode up to 10 km, 100GBASE-ER4 up to 40 km and 100GBASE-DR4 up to 500 m over parallel single-mode fiber.
Q
What types of direct attach copper (DAC) cables work with QSFP28?
A
Passive and active QSFP28 DAC cables are available in lengths from 1 m to 7 m; passive is cost-effective for short runs, while active DAC extends reach up to 10 m with lower power consumption.
Q
Can I mix HPE compatible QSFP28 modules with other vendors’ optics?
A
Yes, if both modules adhere strictly to the QSFP28 MSA specification and HPE firmware requirements, they can co-exist, but for guaranteed support use parts validated for HPE equipment.
Q
How do I choose the correct QSFP28 part number?
A
Match your required speed, fiber type, distance and module style against HPE’s compatibility matrix; reference OEM part numbers and cross-reference with the third-party supplier’s equivalent code.
Q
What is the typical power consumption of a QSFP28 transceiver?
A
Power consumption ranges from 3.5 W for SR4 modules to 4.5 W for LR4/ER4 modules; DAC cables consume under 1 W, supporting dense, low-power data center deployments.
Q
How do I install a QSFP28 in an HPE switch?
A
Ensure the switch is powered on, align the QSFP28 module with the port opening, gently insert until it clicks, then verify link lights and run a port-status check in the CLI or web interface.
Q
Are HPE compatible QSFP28 modules hot-swappable?
A
Yes, QSFP28 modules are hot-swappable, allowing insertion or removal without powering down the system; always confirm link traffic has migrated before removal for minimal disruption.
Q
How do I verify QSFP28 link status on HPE equipment?
A
Use the HPE CLI command show interfaces or view the port status in the web GUI; active optics display ‘up’ state and report lane-by-lane diagnostics such as temperature and voltage.
Q
Do HPE compatible QSFP28 modules support Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM)?
A
Yes, most HPE-validated QSFP28 transceivers support DOM, providing real-time monitoring of optical power, temperature, voltage and bias current via SFF-8636 registers.
Q
What warranty and support come with third-party QSFP28 modules?
A
Leading vendors offer lifetime warranty, 24/7 RMA service and HPE compatibility guarantee; always check the supplier’s policy for coverage details and response times.
Q
What are common troubleshooting steps for QSFP28 issues?
A
Verify optical end-face cleanliness, check cable pin-outs, confirm firmware compatibility, replace transceiver or cable to isolate faults, and review switch logs for SFP+ errors or alarms.
Q
What are the benefits of using HPE compatible QSFP28 over OEM optics?
A
Third-party QSFP28 offers up to 40% cost savings, strict HPE compliance, immediate availability, and equivalent performance and reliability under warranty and interoperability tested by the vendor.
Q
How do I select the best QSFP28 module for my data center?
A
Assess your network’s speed, distance, fiber type and power budget, consult HPE’s compatibility matrix, compare module specifications and choose a vendor with proven HPE validation and support.
