A Guide on Cisco SFP Port Configuration

We know that a SFP (small form-factor pluggable) transceiver is a compact, hot-swappable, input/output transceiver used in data communication and telecommunications networks. Many networks devices like switches, routers and fiber optic cables need SFPs to connect each other. Although everyone knows this is an important and essential component in optical communication system, many people are still unclear about its standard configuration, and don’t know how to install, remove, and maintain it correctly. Next we will introduce Cisco SFP port configuration for three different types of Cisco SFP module respectively.

Cisco SFP Port Configuration for Mylar Tab SFP Module

Cisco SFP modules adopt different latching devices to secure and detach the Cisco SFP modules from the SFP port. The Mylar tab SFP module has a tab that you must pull to remove the module from a switching module port. To insert the Mylar tab SFP module into a switching module port, line up the Cisco SFP module with the port, and slide it into place.

Mylar Tab SFP Module

To remove the Cisco SFP module from the switching module port, pull the tab gently in a slightly downward direction until it disengages from the port, and then pull the Cisco SFP module out.

Note: When pulling the tab to remove the Cisco SFP module, be sure to pull in a straight outward motion so that you remove the Cisco SFP module from the port in a parallel direction. Do not twist or pull the tab because you may disconnect it from the SFP module.

Cisco SFP Port Configuration for Actuator/Button SFP Module

The actuator/button SFP module has a button that you must push to remove the Cisco SFP module from a switching module port. To insert the actuator/button Cisco SFP module in to a switching module port, line up the Cisco SFP module with the port, and slide it in until the actuator/button clicks into place. Be sure not to press the actuator/button as you insert the Cisco SFP module because you might inadvertently disengage the Cisco SFP module from the port.

Actuator Button SFP Module

To remove an actuator/button SFP module from a switching module port, first you need to Gently press the actuator/button on the front of the Cisco SFP module until it clicks and the latch mechanism activates, releasing the SFP module from the port. And then grasp the actuator/button between your thumb and index finger, and carefully pull the Cisco SFP module from the port.

Cisco SFP Port Configuration for Bale-clasp SFP Module

The bale-clasp SFP module has a bale clasp that you use to secure the Cisco SFP module in a switching module port. To insert a bale-clasp Cisco SFP module into a switching module port, you need to close the bale-clasp before inserting the Cisco SFP module and then Line up the SFP module with the port, and slide it into the port.

Bale-clasp SFP Module

To remove a bale-clasp SFP module from a switching module port, follow the next steps. Firstly, Open the bale clasp on the SFP module with your index finger in a downward direction. If the bale clasp is obstructed and you cannot use your index finger to open it, use a small, flat-blade screwdriver or other long, narrow instrument to open the bale clasp. Then, grasp the SFP module between your thumb and index finger, and carefully remove it from the switching module port.

Summary

It is important to follow the correct steps when making Cisco SFP port configuration, because that can protect your Cisco SFP mudule from getting damaged and ensure a high performance. Another caution needs to be mentioned here is that the invisible laser radiation may be emitted from disconnected fibers or connectors. So you need to avoid staring into beams or view directly with optical instruments.