Installing a QSFP transceiver

About this task

The device supports only IBM-qualified transceivers. If you use an unqualified transceiver, the switchshow command output shows the port in a Mod_Inv state. Fabric OS also logs the issue in the system error log. Also note the following:

Each QSFP contains four individual 16 Gbps or 32 Gbps ports. Be aware that any problems with one port could affect all four ports in the quad if the QSFP must be replaced.
Although installation and removal procedures are the same for QSFP transceivers installed in port blades and extension blades, these transceivers are not interchangeable between the two blade types.
Although most QSFPs support standard QSFP to QSFP, and in some cases breakout cable, the 4x16 Gbps 2 km LWL QSFP has an integrated cable for connection directly to a female-terminated connector in a patch panel or patch cable.
On Gen 6 platforms, 16Gb/s QSFPs may sometimes negotiate the link speed to 8Gb/s when a breakout cable is connected. To avoid this, disable, and then re-enable the port that negotiated the speed to 8Gb/s or connect the cable to the QSFP first and then install the QSFP into the switch.

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

Procedure

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 QSFP transceivers, as the transceiver might be hot.

Figure 1. Installing a QSFP transceiver into blade port
- 1. Pull tab
- 2. QSFP cable
- 3. QSFP transceiver
The port LED initially blinks amber after installation, then displays steady amber.
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 will not need to install a cable.

The port LED displays steady amber until both ends of the cable are inserted and the link is established. When the link is fully established, the LED displays steady green.

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 an other type of transceiver into a regular QSFP transceiver. You may damage the cable as well as the transceiver.
Organize cables to avoid covering LEDs and air vents. Refer to Cable management.