Cisco Fiber Optic Module X2-10GB-SR

Cisco Fiber Optic Module X2-10GB-SR:

The Cisco fiber optic module X2-10GB-SR is an optical transceiver module designed to provide 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity over short distances using multimode fiber (MMF). It is built on the X2 form factor, which was widely used in earlier generations of Cisco hardware for 10GbE connections. Compared to newer form factors like SFP+, the X2 module is physically larger and consumes more power, but it remains an essential component for organizations maintaining legacy Cisco network equipment.

This module implements the 10GBASE-SR standard, which operates at an optical wavelength of 850 nanometers using a VCSEL (Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser). This network module supports typical distances of up to 26 meters on older FDDI-grade fiber, up to 300 meters on OM3 multimode fiber, and up to 400 meters on OM4 fiber. These distances make it ideal for short-reach applications such as intra-data center links, where high-speed connectivity is needed between switches, routers, and servers within the same building or campus environment.

The X2-10GB-SR Cisco module uses dual SC connectors for fiber termination and offers full-duplex communication. It is hot-swappable, which means it can be inserted or removed without shutting down the networking device an important feature for maintaining network uptime during upgrades or replacements. Additionally, it supports Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM), allowing network administrators to monitor parameters such as optical power, voltage, temperature, and laser bias current for proactive troubleshooting and maintenance.

Specifications of Cisco Fiber Optic Module X2-10GB-SR:

• Form factor: X2 module (larger than newer standards like SFP+, uses a XAUI interface)
• Speed: 10Gbps (10GBASE-SR standard)
• Wavelength: 850 nm (VCSEL laser)
• Fiber type: Multimode fiber (MMF), typically 50 µm core OM3 or OM4 types
• Connector: Dual SC/PC (Simplex) or SC Duplex interface
• Distance: ~26 m on legacy FDDI-grade MMF | Up to 300 m on OM3 MMF | Up to 400 m on OM4 MMF
• Hot-swappable: Can be inserted | removed without powering down the device
• Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM/DOM): Yes, monitors parameters like temperature, laser bias, voltage, etc.
• Pay-as-you-populate & Cisco ID: Supports identification of genuine Cisco-supplied modules on Cisco devices.
• Supported fiber type: MMF (Multimode Fiber)
• DDM / DOM: Yes
• Cisco ID Feature: Yes, for authenticity check

Uses of Cisco Fiber Optic Module X2-10GB-SR:

• Legacy Cisco hardware: Great when working with older Cisco switches/routers that still use the X2 slot architecture.
• Short-range 10G MMF links: Especially when OM3 or OM4 fiber is available, the module can deliver up to 300-400 m reach.
• Network monitoring needs: With DDM support, it’s useful in environments requiring active monitoring.

Other Recommended:

Cisco QSFP-40G-LR4-S Module

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Cisco Fiber Optic Module X2-10G-LRM