HPE 400G QSFP-DD SR8 Transceiver — MPO-16 Multi-Mode 400GBase-SR8 Optical Module for High-Density Data Centers

The HPE QSFP-DD Module is a high-density, high-performance transceiver designed for modern data centers that demand scalable bandwidth and reliable optical networking. Built for data networking and optical networks, this module uses a QSFP-DD form factor with an MPO-16 interface to deliver a robust 400 Gigabit Ethernet link over short-reach multi‑mode fiber. Whether you’re upgrading a spine‑leaf fabric, expanding a high‑throughput data center interconnect, or refreshing your optical topology, this transceiver provides a single, future‑proof solution that aligns with today’s demand for speed, efficiency, and manageability. Its compact footprint helps maximize rack density while maintaining compatibility with a wide range of enterprise-grade switches and routers, offering a seamless path to 400G readiness across your campus or cloud environment.

• 400GBase-SR8 performance — This QSFP-DD module supports 400 Gigabit Ethernet using the SR8 8‑lane parallel active‑optics design, enabling multi‑gigabit throughput across a single, compact device. It’s engineered to deliver high-bandwidth interconnects between data center devices, reducing equipment sprawl while maintaining excellent signal integrity and reliability.
• MPO-16 interface — The module features an MPO-16 connector that simplifies high-density fiber cabling for short-reach applications. This interface is purpose-built for parallel optics, allowing eight fiber lanes to carry data concurrently and efficiently, which is essential for achieving the full 400G potential of the SR8 specification.
• Multi‑mode, short‑reach design — Optimized for multi‑mode optical fiber, the HPE QSFP-DD Module supports short-reach deployments typical of data centers. It enables high-speed links within a single facility or between nearby racks, with a maximum practical distance that aligns with standard OM3/OM4 fiber installations, ensuring compatibility with existing fiber infrastructure.
• Maximized port density and efficiency — The QSFP-DD form factor is designed to maximize port density per rack, reducing cabling complexity and power consumption per gigabit. This module is an ideal choice for dense spine‑leaf architectures where space, air flow, and power budgets are critical considerations for scale-out networks.
• Versatile deployment for data networking & optical networks — Suitable for a wide range of applications, from data networking to enterprise optical networks, this module supports high‑speed interconnects across switches, routers, and storage fabrics. Its robust performance underpins reliable, scalable service delivery for cloud, virtualization, and AI workloads while maintaining compatibility with standard data center cabling practices.

Technical Details of HPE QSFP-DD Module

• Form factor: QSFP-DD — A high-density, hot‑swappable transceiver form factor designed for modern data centers and scalable deployments.
• Interface: 1 x MPO-16 — A multi‑fiber, parallel optic interface optimized for high-bandwidth SR8 operation.
• Data rate: 400GBase-SR8 — 400 Gigabit Ethernet data rate leveraging eight parallel lanes for efficient intra‑data center connectivity.
• Fiber type: Multi‑mode optical fiber — Suitable for short‑reach links within data centers, enabling cost-effective high‑speed interconnects.
• Maximum distance: Up to 100 meters (328 feet) — Typical maximum reach for SR8 over standard multi‑mode fiber, aligning with common data center link requirements.
• Applications: Data Networking, Optical Network — Ideal for high‑volume interconnects between switches, routers, and other optical networking devices in modern infrastructures.

How to Install HPE QSFP-DD Module

• Power down or prepare the device according to your equipment’s maintenance guidelines, ensuring you follow proper ESD precautions before handling the transceiver.
• Identify an available QSFP-DD slot on the switch or router that supports 400GBase-SR8 operation and is compatible with MPO-16 fiber interfaces.
• Align the QSFP-DD module with the slot orientation, ensuring the connector edge and latch align with the device’s receptacle. Do not force the module; if it doesn’t seat smoothly, recheck alignment and slot type.
• Gently insert the module until it seats and the latches engage securely. Confirm that the module is firmly connected and that there is no excessive force applied to the fiber cables.
• Connect the MPO-16 fiber cable to the module, route cabling neatly to avoid bending or stress, and power on the device. Verify link status and perform a basic data path test to ensure proper operation and throughput.
• Once active, monitor the link health and performance using the device’s management interface. If issues arise, consult the network fabric documentation, verify fiber type and distance are within supported ranges, and check compatibility with other network equipment.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the HPE QSFP-DD Module used for? It is a high-density 400G transceiver designed for data networking and optical networks, enabling fast interconnects between switches, routers, and storage fabrics in modern data centers.
• What does 400GBase-SR8 mean? It refers to a 400 Gigabit Ethernet link that uses eight parallel lanes (SR8) over short‑reach multi‑mode fiber, typically within data centers, to provide high bandwidth over relatively short distances.
• What kind of fiber does it require? The module is intended for multi‑mode optical fiber, which is commonly used for data-center within-building links and short interconnects between devices.
• What is MPO-16 used for? MPO-16 is a multi‑fiber connector standard that carries multiple optical lanes in parallel, enabling high‑bandwidth SR8 operation from a single transceiver module.
• Is this module compatible with most network equipment? The HPE QSFP-DD Module is designed for interoperability in data centers and should be compatible with switches and routers that support QSFP-DD 400GBase-SR8 and MPO-16 interfaces; always verify vendor compatibility and firmware support for optimal operation.