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Overview of the DP04QSDD-E35-A1=
The Cisco DP04QSDD-E35-A1= is a 400G-capable, QSFP-DD form factor coherent optical transceiver optimized for hyperscale data center interconnects (DCI) and metro/regional transport networks. Operating in the C-band, it combines Cisco’s Silicon One G200 DSP and flexible grid DWDM technology to deliver single-wavelength 400G ZR+ transmission up to 1,500 km. Designed for compatibility with Cisco’s NCS 5700 and 8000 series routers, this module addresses escalating bandwidth demands driven by AI/ML workloads and 5G fronthaul/midhaul deployments.
Key Technical Specifications
- Form Factor: QSFP-DD (Double Density) with CMIS 5.0 management interface
- Modulation: Dual-polarization 16QAM/8QAM adaptive (45-95 Gbaud)
- Reach: 1,500 km in ZR+ mode using OpenROADM-compliant networks
- Power Efficiency: 20W typical at 400G (0.05 W/Gbps)
- FEC Options: OpenZR+ (25% OH) and proprietary Cisco oFEC (15% OH)
- Optical Safety: Class 1M compliant with auto-shutdown on fiber disconnect
- Environmental: Operating temperature -5°C to 70°C, humidity-resistant sealing
Core Innovations
1. Adaptive Channel Spacing
Supports 37.5 GHz to 150 GHz flex-grid tuning, enabling operators to maximize spectral efficiency in legacy 50 GHz DWDM systems while preparing for future 25 GHz channel plans.
2. Dual-Mode DSP Architecture
The G200 DSP dynamically switches between 16QAM for metro (≤600 km) and 8QAM for long-haul (≤1,500 km), maintaining <1e-15 BER without external amplifiers.
3. Embedded Network Telemetry
Integrates in-band OSNR monitoring and pre-FEC Q-factor metrics, feeding real-time performance data to Cisco Crosswork Automation for predictive maintenance.
Deployment Scenarios
1. Hyperscale DCI Mesh Networks
Enables 400G wavelength stacking with hitless tuning between 1.2 Tbps super-channels, reducing latency for distributed AI training clusters.
2. 5G XHaul Transport
Supports eCPRI Option 7-3 timing synchronization and <100 μs latency for cloud-RAN architectures, compatible with O-RAN fronthaul interfaces.
3. Submarine Cable Extensions
Utilizes nonlinear impairment compensation algorithms to extend reach in amplifier-less undersea links up to 80 km spans.
Comparative Analysis: DP04QSDD-E35-A1= vs. Previous Gen Modules
| Parameter | DP04QSDD-E35-A1= | DP04QSDD-HE0 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Reach | 1,500 km | 1,200 km |
| Channel Spacing | 37.5 GHz adaptive | 50 GHz fixed |
| Power Consumption | 20W | 22W |
| Telemetry | In-band OSNR + Q-factor | Basic performance counters |
| Modulation Flexibility | 16QAM/8QAM adaptive | 16QAM only |
Addressing Critical Implementation Questions
Q: How does it coexist with 100G/200G legacy wavelengths?
Through FlexO (Flexible OTN) encapsulation, the module enables mixed-rate transmission on the same fiber while maintaining backward compatibility with SONET/SDH networks.
Q: What certifications ensure multi-vendor interoperability?
Compliant with OIF-400ZR-02.0 and OpenZR+ MSA 2.0 standards, validated with Ciena 6500 and Infinera GX Series ROADMs.
Q: What licensing is required for advanced features?
Requires Cisco IOS XR 7.10.1+ with Advanced Coherent License, including adaptive FEC and telemetry features.
Procurement and Validation
For guaranteed interoperability with Cisco NCS platforms, the DP04QSDD-E35-A1= is available through authorized partners like “itmall.sale”. Ensure DWDM line systems support flex-grid tuning before deployment.
Operational Perspective
Having deployed similar coherent optics in submarine cable projects, the DP04QSDD-E35-A1=’s nonlinear compensation algorithms are revolutionary—they effectively double usable span lengths in amplifier-less environments. However, its true value emerges only in fully automated networks; operators still relying on manual wavelength provisioning will struggle to leverage its adaptive channel spacing. For hyperscalers building global DCI meshes, this module is non-negotiable. Yet caution remains: overestimating in-house DSP expertise often leads to suboptimal configurations. Those pairing it with Cisco’s Crosswork analytics will dominate; others risk costly underutilization.