SFP stands for “Small Form-factor Pluggable”. SFP transceiver is used for Fast Ethernet applications. Switch with a Cisco C3KX-NM-1G module can support SFP. But with the increasing needs for higher data rates, 1 Gbps speed is not enough. Thus, SFP+ (Small Form-factor Pluggable Plus) is created as an expansion of SFP to support data rates up to 10 Gbps or even higher over fiber. Accordingly, switch with a Cisco C3KX-NM-10G module (shown as the following picture) is produced to support both SFP and SFP+ transceivers.

C3KX-NM-10G Overview

C3KX-NM-10G module fits most Cisco Catalyst 3650-X and 3750-X switches. So you can just upgrade modules instead of replacing them when you need higher transmission speeds. Besides, it’s easy to be configured so that network designers can mix and match the type of transceivers with their own port module preferences. C3KX-NM-10G module has two installation screws on each side, which make it easy to switch things out and make new connection without a fuss.

C3KX-NM-10G module has four slots, including two SFP+ slots and two SFP mini-GBIC slots. The four slots are grouped as two pairs, with each pair consisting of one SFP slot and one SFP+ slot. Each pair supports two 1-Gigabit SFP modules or one 10-Gigabit SFP+ module. That is to say, a 10-Gigabit SFP+ module and 1-Gigabit SFP module cannot operate in a pair at the same time.

Supported Combinations of SFP and SFP+ Modules

Usually a 10-Gigabit SFP+ module takes precedence over a 1-Gigabit SFP module. But it’s another case when an SFP module is first inserted in Slot 1 and has link. For example, if the SFP in Slot 1 retains link, you insert an SFP+ module in Slot 2 and the SFP+ module in Slot 2 does not operate. If the SFP module in Slot 1 is shut down or removed, the SFP+ module in Slot 2 turns on. The SFP module in Slot 1 does not work as long as an SFP+ module is in Slot 2, whether it has link up or not.

Fiber Optic Solutions for C3KX-NM-10G Module

C3KX-NM-10G module provides 1 Gigabit Ethernet and 10 Gigabit Ethernet data links. It supports 1 Gigabit Ethernet transceiver and 10 Gigabit Ethernet transceivers. The following tables show all SFP and SPP+ transceiver modules for C3KX-NM-10G module.

1 Gigabit Ethernet Transceivers for C3KX-NM-10G Module

Note: DOM is short for Digital Optical Monitoring.

10 Gigabit Ethernet Transceivers for C3KX-NM-10G Module

C3KX-NM-10G Technicial Specifications