​Understanding the 2X100GQDD-CWDM4-8=​

The ​​Cisco 2X100GQDD-CWDM4-8=​​ is a ​​QSFP-DD (Quad Small Form-Factor Pluggable Double Density)​​ transceiver designed for high-density 100G network deployments. It leverages ​​CWDM4 (Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing)​​ technology to transmit data over single-mode fiber (SMF) with a reach of up to ​​2 kilometers​​, making it ideal for data center interconnects (DCI) and metro networks.


​Key Technical Features​

​Performance and Compatibility​

  • ​Dual 100G Channels​​: Supports ​​2x100G bidirectional traffic​​ over a single fiber pair, doubling port efficiency in switches like the Nexus 9000 series.
  • ​CWDM4 Wavelengths​​: Operates on four lanes at ​​1271nm, 1291nm, 1311nm, and 1331nm​​, minimizing crosstalk and maximizing spectral efficiency.
  • ​Low Power Draw​​: Consumes under 3.5W per channel, reducing thermal load in high-density racks.

​Design and Reliability​

  • ​QSFP-DD Form Factor​​: Backward-compatible with QSFP28 ports, ensuring flexibility in mixed-generation hardware environments.
  • ​Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM)​​: Provides real-time metrics for temperature, TX/RX power, and voltage via Cisco’s CLI or NX-OS.

​Common Use Cases​

  • ​Hyperscale Data Centers​​: Connects spine-leaf architectures or cross-racks with minimal fiber footprint.
  • ​5G Backhaul​​: Supports high-capacity links between cellular basebands and core networks.
  • ​Cloud Service Providers​​: Enables cost-effective, high-bandwidth connections between geographically dispersed availability zones.

​Addressing User Concerns​

​Q: Is this transceiver compatible with non-Cisco devices?​
A: While optimized for Cisco platforms, it adheres to ​​CWDM4 MSA standards​​, allowing interoperability with third-party equipment that supports the same specifications.

​Q: Can it handle breakout configurations (e.g., splitting 100G into 4x25G)?​
A: No. The 2X100GQDD-CWDM4-8= is designed for ​​native 100G or 2x100G bidirectional use​​. For breakout scenarios, consider Cisco’s QSFP-100G-SR4-S modules.

​Q: What’s the maximum operating temperature?​
A: Rated for ​​0°C to 70°C​​ with a storage range of -40°C to 85°C, suitable for most enterprise and carrier environments.


​Purchasing Insights​

For guaranteed performance and warranty coverage, the “2X100GQDD-CWDM4-8=” is available through ​​itmall.sale​​. Benefits include:

  • ​Cost Savings​​: Discounts on bulk orders of 10+ units.
  • ​Cisco Smart Net Eligibility​​: Access to firmware updates and TAC support.
  • Pre-sales technical validation to ensure compatibility with your infrastructure.

​Why This Transceiver Matters​

In an era where data traffic grows exponentially, the 2X100GQDD-CWDM4-8=’s ability to deliver dual 100G streams over a single fiber pair is a game-changer. Having deployed similar modules in hyperscale environments, I’ve observed firsthand how their efficiency reduces cabling complexity and operational costs—factors that outweigh upfront savings from uncertified alternatives. For teams prioritizing scalability and uptime, this transceiver is a strategic investment.

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