QSFP-4X10G-AOC7M= Active Optical Cable: Techn
Overview of the QSFP-4X10G-AOC7M= Module Th...
Product Overview and Design Specifications
The Cisco ONS-CXP2-MPO-90= is a 12-fiber MPO (Multi-Fiber Push-On) breakout cable designed for 100G optical networks, specifically optimized for use with Cisco’s CXP2 transceiver modules. This solution enables seamless connectivity in high-density environments, such as data centers and service provider networks, by converting CXP2-based 100G links into 10x10G channels via an MPO interface. Key design features include:
- Fiber Type: OM4 multimode fiber (50/125 µm) for short-reach applications up to 90 meters.
- Insertion Loss: ≤1.5 dB per channel, ensuring compatibility with IEEE 802.3bm 100G-SR10 standards.
- Durability: Reinforced MPO connectors rated for 500+ mating cycles, compliant with IEC 61754-7 and TIA-604-5 specifications.
The cable is pre-terminated and factory-tested to guarantee performance in 40G/100G spine-leaf architectures and SAN/NAS storage fabrics.
Technical Performance and Compatibility
Cisco’s 2024 Optical Validation Report highlights critical metrics for the ONS-CXP2-MPO-90=:
- Data Rate: 10×10.3125 Gbps (100G aggregate) using NRZ modulation.
- Wavelength: 850 nm VCSEL arrays for OM4 compatibility.
- Power Consumption: 1.5W per transceiver link, 40% lower than earlier CXP1-based solutions.
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 70°C, with humidity tolerance up to 85% non-condensing.
In lab tests, the cable maintained <1E-15 BER (Bit Error Rate) at 90 meters, even under -5°C thermal stress, validating its reliability in edge computing environments.
Key Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios
1. Hyperscale Data Center Interconnects
A cloud provider deployed 500 cables in Cisco Nexus 92300YC spine switches, aggregating 10x10G NVMe-oF traffic into 100G uplinks. This reduced cabling complexity by 70% and saved $150K in switch port costs.
2. Financial Trading Infrastructures
A Tokyo stock exchange achieved sub-500 ns latency for market data distribution using Cisco MDS 9700 switches with ONS-CXP2-MPO-90= cables, avoiding packet fragmentation in 40G-to-100G migration.
3. Media Production Networks
A broadcast studio used the cables to connect Cisco UCS X-Series servers with 10G-SR storage arrays, enabling real-time 8K video editing with zero dropped frames over 80-meter links.
Addressing Critical Customer Concerns
Q: How does this solution compare to QSFP28-based 100G-SR4?
- Channel Density: MPO-12 supports 12 fibers vs. QSFP28’s 8, enabling future 200G upgrades via breakout adapters.
- Cost Efficiency: 30% lower per-port cost than QSFP28-SR4 in large-scale deployments.
- Compatibility: Works with legacy CXP2/CFP2 transceivers, unlike QSFP28-only systems.
Q: Can it support mixed 10G/40G environments?
Yes. Use Cisco MPO-12-to-4xLC breakout cassettes to split 100G into 4x25G or 10x10G links, ideal for hybrid SAN fabrics.
Q: What maintenance is required?
- Cleaning: Use Cisco FBC-1.25 fiber cleaners every 3 months to prevent >0.5 dB loss from dust.
- Inspection: Validate connectors with Cisco OCS-FC-2000 scopes to detect scratches or contamination.
Installation and Maintenance Best Practices
- Cable Routing: Maintain ≥30 mm bend radius to avoid microbending losses.
- Polarity Management: Follow TIA-568-C.1 Method A for end-to-end fiber alignment.
- Testing: Validate links with Cisco NCS 2000 OTDR tools, targeting ≤2.0 dB total loss per 90-meter span.
- Documentation: Label MPO trunks with Cisco CAB-LBL-MPO-12 tags for traceability.
For enterprises migrating from 10G-SR infrastructures, Cisco offers trade-in credits covering 15% of costs under its Optical Modernization Program.
Why Enterprises Choose Cisco’s Solution
- Interoperability: Validated with Arista 7050X3 and Juniper QFX5220 switches via MSA-compliant transceivers.
- Sustainability: Halogen-free jacket materials meet RoHS 3 and REACH SVHC standards.
- Scalability: Supports 200G-SR4 upgrades via Cisco QSFP-DD transceivers without re-cabling.
For pricing and availability, visit the Cisco ONS-CXP2-MPO-90= product page at ITMall.sale.
Operational Insights from Field Deployments
From 20+ global deployments, two critical lessons emerge:
- Labeling Prevents Chaos: A European MSP reduced troubleshooting time by 50% after labeling MPO groups with QR codes linked to asset databases.
- Proactive Cleaning Saves Costs: A cloud operator avoided $300K in downtime by replacing contaminated MPO connectors flagged during quarterly inspections.
While 400G/800G technologies dominate headlines, the ONS-CXP2-MPO-90= underscores the enduring value of robust, standards-based cabling. For network architects balancing innovation with practicality, this solution isn’t just a cable—it’s the backbone of reliable, high-speed connectivity. In industries where latency and uptime equate to revenue, investing in certified, future-ready infrastructure isn’t optional; it’s the foundation of competitive advantage.