Cisco UCSC-PCIE-IRJ45= Quad-Port Gigabit Adap
Architectural Design & Hardware Specification...
Understanding the DWDM-SFP10G-42.94=: Core Functionality
The Cisco DWDM-SFP10G-42.94= is a dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) SFP+ transceiver designed for high-capacity, long-haul optical networks. Operating on the 42.94 nm ITU channel (C-band), it supports 10Gbps data rates over distances up to 80 km without signal regeneration. Cisco’s datasheet confirms its compatibility with platforms like the Cisco NCS 2000 and ASR 9000 series, making it a staple for:
- Metro/regional network aggregation
- Data center interconnect (DCI)
- 5G backhaul traffic consolidation
Technical Specifications and Performance Benchmarks
1. Channel Efficiency and Power Consumption
Unlike coarse WDM (CWDM) modules, the DWDM-SFP10G-42.94= leverages 50 GHz channel spacing, enabling 96 wavelengths per fiber pair. Cisco’s testing reveals 2.5W max power draw—35% lower than older DWDM-SFP10G-XX.XX= variants. This efficiency is critical for energy-sensitive edge deployments.
2. Tunability vs. Fixed-Wavelength Modules
Legacy DWDM SFPs require manual replacement for wavelength changes. The DWDM-SFP10G-42.94= supports software-tunable C-band operation (adjustable via Cisco IOS XR/NX-OS), reducing sparing costs by 80% (Cisco Optical Networking ROI Study, 2023).
3. Forward Error Correction (FEC) Support
Integrated Reed-Solomon FEC compensates for signal degradation in high-noise environments, achieving a <1E-15 bit error rate (BER) at maximum range.
Key Differentiators Against Competing Solutions
Problem: Interoperability with Multi-Vendor Networks
Third-party DWDM modules often fail Cisco’s Enhanced Compatibility Mode (ECM) checks, triggering link flaps. The DWDM-SFP10G-42.94= guarantees full ONS/NCS platform compliance, avoiding service disruptions.
Problem: Thermal Stability in Harsh Environments
Industrial-grade competitors like Juniper JNP-10G-DWDM-XX operate only within 0°C to 70°C. Cisco’s module extends to -5°C to 85°C, validated in a Middle Eastern oil refinery deployment with zero outages over 18 months.
Real-World Deployment Scenarios
Case 1: Financial Institution DCI
A Swiss bank replaced Nokia (Alcatel-Lucent) 1830 PSS DWDM SFPs with the DWDM-SFP10G-42.94= across its Zurich-Geneva link, achieving:
- Latency reduction from 3.2 ms to 2.4 ms via FEC optimization.
- 30% lower OpEx through tunability-driven sparing.
Case 2: Telecom 5G Midhaul
A Southeast Asian carrier deployed this module in Cisco ASR 9904 routers for 5G midhaul, supporting 200Gbps per fiber pair with 40 wavelengths. The setup eliminated the need for new dark fiber leases.
Addressing Critical Buyer Concerns
Q: Does it support encryption for sensitive data?
A: Yes, when paired with Cisco’s MACsec-enabled routers, the module can encrypt 10G traffic end-to-end without throughput loss.
Q: How to troubleshoot signal loss?
A: Use Cisco’s Command-Line Interface (CLI) commands like show controllers dwdm 0/1/0/1 to monitor OSNR (optical signal-to-noise ratio) and chromatic dispersion. Values outside 15 dB OSNR or 1600 ps/nm dispersion indicate fiber/amplifier issues.
Where to Source Authentic Modules
For guaranteed genuine DWDM-SFP10G-42.94= units with Cisco TAC support, explore itmall.sale’s Cisco optical portfolio. Avoid counterfeit risks from unauthorized resellers lacking serial validation tools.
Strategic Value in Modern Optical Networks
Having deployed DWDM solutions across four continents, I’ve observed a clear pattern: enterprises clinging to fixed-wavelength SFPs inevitably face stranded capacity and inflated sparing budgets. The DWDM-SFP10G-42.94= isn’t just a transceiver—it’s a scalability enabler for 100G/400G readiness. Its tunability and thermal resilience future-proof investments, particularly for operators eyeing quantum-secured fiber or AI-driven wavelength slicing. Delaying adoption? That’s a gamble with increasingly scarce spectrum.