Installing a QSFP28 transceiver

While non-Extreme optics are supported, Extreme-qualified transceivers are recommended. The port might not become operational or it may have a higher error rate using unqualified transceivers.

The following additional notes apply to the QSFP28 transceivers:

While non-Extreme optics are supported,Extreme-qualified transceivers are recommended.
If using 40GbE-to-10GbE breakouts, each QSFP28 transceiver contains four individual 10 GbE ports. Be aware that any problems with one port could affect all four ports in the quad if the QSFP28 must be replaced.
Some QSFP28 transceivers have an integrated cable attached. You do not need to install a separate cable.

To insert an QSFP28 transceiver and cable, complete the following steps.

Push the transceiver into the port using the pull tab. Transceivers are keyed so that they can only be inserted with the correct orientation. If a transceiver does not slide in easily, ensure that it is correctly oriented. Push the correctly oriented transceiver into the port until it is firmly seated and the latching mechanism clicks.
Note
Always use the transceiver pull tab to insert or remove the QSFP28 transceivers, as the transceiver might be hot.
Installing a QSFP28 transceiver into the interface module port
1. Pull tab
2. QSFP28 cable
3. QSFP28 transceiver
After insertion, the LEDs have the following status:
- Off - no link
- On - link, no traffic
- Rapid flash - link with traffic
- Slow flash (one second on, one second off) - beaconing feature
Position the cable so that the key (the ridge on one side of the cable connector) is aligned with the slot in the transceiver. Insert the cable into the transceiver until the latching mechanism clicks.

Note
If your transceiver has an integrated cable, you do not need to install a cable.

Note
Cables are keyed so that they can be inserted in only one way. If a cable does not slide in easily, ensure that it is correctly oriented. Do not insert any unsupported cable intended for another type of transceiver into a regular QSFP28 transceiver. You may damage the cable as well as the transceiver.
Organize cables to avoid covering LEDs and air vents so that LCs can be removed. Refer to Managing cables for more information.