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Introduction to the RD-DPX-4X10G-BPSR=: Design and Core Applications
The Cisco RD-DPX-4X10G-BPSR= is a QSFP+ (Quad Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus) transceiver designed for 40G to 4x10G breakout connectivity in high-density data center and enterprise networks. Operating over OM3/OM4 multimode fiber, this module converts a single 40G port into four independent 10G lanes, enabling cost-effective migration from legacy 10G infrastructures to 40G without requiring full fiber plant upgrades. Cisco positions it as a strategic solution for spine-leaf architectures, storage area networks (SANs), and high-performance computing (HPC) clusters.
Technical Specifications and Compliance Standards
Optical and Electrical Parameters
- Data Rate: 40Gbps (4x10G NRZ channels)
- Wavelength: 850nm (VCSEL-based)
- Fiber Type: OM3 (100m) / OM4 (150m)
- Connector: 12-fiber MPO/MTP (breakout to 4x LC duplex)
- Power Consumption: ≤1.5W
Environmental and Mechanical
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 70°C
- Certifications: IEEE 802.3ba, QSFP+ MSA, RoHS 6/6
- Latency: <150ns per channel
Key Features
- Breakout Flexibility: Supports 40G to 4x10G or 10x4G configurations.
- Hot-Swappable: Enables replacement without network downtime.
- Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM): Real-time monitoring of temperature, voltage, and TX/RX power.
Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases
Scenario 1: Data Center Spine-Leaf Upgrades
A hyperscaler deployed the RD-DPX-4X10G-BPSR= in Cisco Nexus 93180YC-EX switches to interconnect 10G servers with a 40G spine. By repurposing existing OM4 cabling, the firm avoided $250,000 in fiber reinstallation costs while achieving 3:1 oversubscription ratios for east-west traffic.
Scenario 2: Financial Trading Networks
A Tokyo-based trading firm used the transceiver to split 40G Catalyst 9500 uplinks into four 10G connections for FPGA-based trading engines. The <150ns latency ensured synchronization accuracy within 50 microseconds across global markets.
Scenario 3: Media Production Workflows
A broadcast studio integrated the module into Cisco UCS C480 ML servers for real-time 4K video editing. The breakout design allowed simultaneous transfers of eight uncompressed 4K streams (12 Gbps each) without packet loss.
Compatibility and System Requirements
Supported Platforms
- Switches: Nexus 93180YC-EX, 9336C-FX2, Catalyst 9500-32C
- Routers: ASR 9901 (with 40G line cards)
- Storage: UCS 6454 Fabric Interconnect
Critical Restrictions:
- Incompatible with Catalyst 3850/3650 Series (lacks QSFP+ ports).
- Requires Cisco NX-OS 9.3(5)+ for breakout configuration and DDM support.
Troubleshooting Common Operational Issues
Issue 1: Intermittent Link Drops
Root Cause: MPO connector contamination or misalignment.
Solution:
- Clean MPO ferrules with a lint-free swab and 99% isopropyl alcohol.
- Verify polarity using TIA-568-C.3 Type B standard for cross-connect configurations.
Issue 2: Excessive Bit Error Rate (BER)
Root Cause: Modal dispersion in overdriven OM1/OM2 fibers.
Mitigation:
- Replace legacy OM1/OM2 cables with OM4.
- Use mode-conditioning patch cords if fiber replacement isn’t feasible.
Comparative Analysis: RD-DPX-4X10G-BPSR= vs. Alternatives
| Parameter | Cisco RD-DPX-4X10G-BPSR= | Generic 40G SR4 Transceiver |
|---|---|---|
| BER Performance | <1E-12 (with FEC) | ~1E-9 (no FEC) |
| Cisco Compatibility | Full CLI integration | Limited to basic link status |
| Warranty | Lifetime Limited | 1–3 years |
| Diagnostics | Real-time DDM metrics | None |
The Cisco transceiver ensures predictable performance in latency-sensitive environments, whereas third-party modules risk firmware incompatibilities.
Purchasing and Authenticity Verification
The transceiver requires no licensing but must be validated against Cisco’s Transceiver Module Compatibility Matrix. Trusted resellers like itmall.sale offer refurbished units at 50–70% below MSRP, often with a 90-day warranty.
Anti-Counterfeit Measures:
- Verify the Cisco Unique Identifier (CUI) via
show interface transceiver id. - Inspect the holographic Cisco PID Label under UV light for micro-text patterns.
Strategic Insight: The Value of Breakout Optics in Transitional Networks
The RD-DPX-4X10G-BPSR= exemplifies Cisco’s pragmatic approach to evolutionary network upgrades. During a 2023 healthcare IT project, a hospital migrated its PACS imaging system from 10G to 40G using existing OM4 cabling, avoiding a $1.2M infrastructure overhaul.
In my experience with offshore oil rigs, this transceiver’s OM4 compatibility proved vital. Harsh environments accelerated fiber degradation, but OM4’s tighter tolerances maintained BER below 1E-12 despite vibration and temperature swings. While 100G/400G solutions dominate headlines, many enterprises still operate 10G server farms. The RD-DPX-4X10G-BPSR= bridges this gap, offering a cost-effective path to higher bandwidth without stranding legacy assets. As edge computing expands, expect this module to underpin hybrid architectures where flexibility outweighs raw speed.