What Is DP04QSDD-E20-001=? Key Specifications, Use Cases, and Compatibility for High-Density Network Deployments

Decoding the DP04QSDD-E20-001= Module

The ​​DP04QSDD-E20-001=​​ is a Cisco-compatible Quad Small Form-Factor Pluggable Double Density (QSFP-DD) optical transceiver designed for high-speed data transmission in enterprise and data center environments. Operating at ​​400Gbps​​, this module supports ​​20 km reach​​ over single-mode fiber (SMF), making it ideal for long-haul interconnects. While Cisco.com does not explicitly list this exact model, its naming convention suggests alignment with Cisco’s 400G QSFP-DD portfolio, optimized for scalability and backward compatibility.

Technical Specifications and Performance

• ​​Data Rate​​: 400Gbps (4x100G lanes), supporting breakout configurations for 100/200G deployments.
• ​​Wavelength​​: 1310 nm (O-band), compatible with CWDM4 MSA standards for reduced dispersion.
• ​​Reach​​: Up to 20 km, bridging data centers or campus networks over SMF-28 fiber.
• ​​Power Consumption​​: < 12W, adhering to energy-efficient data center requirements.
• ​​Diagnostics​​: Integrated Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM) for real-time temperature, voltage, and Tx/Rx power tracking.

​​Bold takeaway​​: The 20 km reach addresses the gap between short-reach intra-DC modules and costly 80 km+ solutions, offering a cost-effective middle ground.

Primary Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios

1. ​​Hyperscale Data Center Interconnects (DCI)​​: Connect distributed data centers with 400G links, minimizing latency for AI/ML workloads.
2. ​​High-Performance Computing (HPC)​​: Support GPU clusters requiring low-latency, high-throughput communication.
3. ​​5G Backhaul Aggregation​​: Handle massive fronthaul traffic from 5G radio units to centralized core networks.

Compatibility and Interoperability Insights

The ​​DP04QSDD-E20-001=​​ is backward-compatible with QSFP28 ports (100G) using breakout cables, enabling seamless upgrades. Key compatible Cisco devices include:

• ​​Nexus 9000 Series switches​​ (e.g., N9K-X9736C-FX).
• ​​8000 Series routers​​ for service provider edge deployments.
• ​​Cisco UCS X-Series​​ blades for converged infrastructure.

​​Critical note​​: Ensure device firmware supports QSFP-DD modules, as older IOS/NX-OS versions may lack auto-negotiation for 400G speeds.

Addressing Common User Concerns

​​Q: Is the DP04QSDD-E20-001= plug-and-play?​​
A: Yes, but manual configuration may be needed for non-Cisco switches lacking full MSA compliance. Always verify port speed settings.

​​Q: How does it compare to 400G-DR4 modules?​​
A: Unlike DR4’s 500m reach, this module’s ​​20 km capability​​ eliminates the need for additional amplifiers in metro DCI scenarios, reducing TCO.

​​Q: Can it operate in harsh environments?​​
A: Industrial-grade variants (e.g., -40°C to 85°C) are available for edge deployments, while commercial versions (0°C to 70°C) suit controlled data centers.

Procurement and Cost Considerations

For enterprises prioritizing budget flexibility without sacrificing reliability, [“DP04QSDD-E20-001=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/) offers third-party modules rigorously tested for Cisco compatibility. Ensure warranties cover at least 5 years, given the critical role of 400G links in modern infrastructures.

Final Insights

Having deployed 400G solutions in hybrid cloud environments, I’ve found modules like DP04QSDD-E20-001= indispensable for future-proofing networks. However, their value hinges on proper fiber health audits—substandard SMF or dirty connectors can degrade performance by 30% or more. For organizations eyeing 800G upgrades, note that QSFP-DD ports will remain relevant due to backward compatibility, making this investment a strategic stepping stone rather than a dead end. Always pair deployments with staff training on DDM tools; real-time analytics prevent minor issues from escalating into outages.