100G optical transceiver modules, primarily in QSFP28 form factor, provide high-speed 100GbE connectivity for data centers, enterprise networks, and service provider applications.

Overview

100G optical transceivers are critical components that convert electrical signals into optical signals and vice versa, enabling high-speed data transmission over fiber networks. They are widely used in data centers, AI clusters, cloud computing, and enterprise core networks to support high-bandwidth applications and low-latency communication .

Common Types and Form Factors

• QSFP28: The most common 100G module, supporting 100GbE links using 4x25Gbps channels. Available in short-range (SR4) multimode and long-range (LR1/LR4) single-mode variants .
• CFP, CFP2, CFP4: Larger form factors used for longer distances or DWDM applications, suitable for metro and long-haul networks .
• QSFP-DD/QSFP56: Next-generation modules supporting 200G and 400G, backward compatible with QSFP28 for high-density deployments .

Reach and Connectivity

• Short-Range (SR): Typically up to 100 meters over OM4 multimode fiber.
• Long-Range (LR): Up to 10 km over single-mode fiber (OS1/OS2).
• Extended Reach: Some modules support DWDM links up to 300 km .

Key Features

• MSA Compliance: Ensures compatibility with major OEM hardware like Cisco, Arista, HP, and Alcatel .
• High Reliability: Factory-tested modules with low latency and thermal efficiency.
• High-Density Deployment: QSFP28 modules allow multiple 100G ports in compact switch designs.
• DAC and AOC Support: Direct Attach Copper (DAC) and Active Optical Cables (AOC) are available for short-range connections .

Suppliers and Availability

• FS: Offers a wide portfolio of 100G QSFP28 modules with nearby warehouse stock and 30-day free returns .
• UnitekFiber: Wholesale supplier providing MSA-compliant 100G QSFP28 modules, DAC/AOC cables, and next-gen 200G/400G modules .
• Pro Optix: ISO-certified 100G transceivers compatible with multiple OEMs, supporting short- and long-reach applications with next-day delivery .
• QSFPTEK and Cables on Demand: Provide 100GBASE-LR4 and 100GBASE-SR4 modules with guaranteed compatibility and high-speed performance .

Applications

• Data Centers: Leaf-spine architectures, server uplinks, and high-density switch interconnects.
• AI and HPC Clusters: High-throughput, low-latency connections for AI workloads.
• Metro and Long-Haul Networks: DWDM and high-capacity optical links.
• Enterprise Networks: Core and distribution layer aggregation, cloud service connectivity. 100G optical transceivers are essential for modern high-speed networks, offering flexibility in reach, form factor, and compatibility while supporting the growing demands of cloud, AI, and enterprise applications.