SFP vs XenPack and X2

[martens72]

We have 3750-X series switches, with 10GB uplinks that will be using the SFP-10G-SR modules. I am proposing to use a 6506 platform for the core/distribution, along with an 8-port 10GB line card. The 6500 supports either X2 and XENPACK.

The datasheet on the 6500 states that the X2 and XENPACK can be plugged into each other. What I can't find, is can either the X2-10GB-SR or XENPACK-10GB-SR interoperate (plug-in) with the SFP-10-SR on the 3750?

As a side note, for another discussion perhaps, is that the 4500 series supports the SFP-10G-SR directly. I am not convinced that the 4500 is much of a step up from the 3750's, but due to budgeting, I may be recommending the 4500 vs. the 6500 series. Anybody have some tips on the 4500 vs. the 6500?

[Leo Laohoo]

I may be recommending the 4500 vs. the 6500 series. Anybody have some tips on the 4500 vs. the 6500?

Unless your 4500 has a Sup7 (by the way, Sup6E and Sup7 have the same price), then don't bother thinking about 4500 and 10Gb.  Some Supervisor cards may have 10Gb interface but the bandwidth per slot can be 6G or 24G (half half duplex).

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/switches/ps4324/prod_models_comparison.html

Sup720 support 10GBASE-X ports require X2 transceiver modules.

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/docs/switches/lan/catalyst6500/hardware/Module_Installation/Sup_Eng_Guide/0atransc.html#wp1030675

Sup32 support Xenpak.

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/docs/switches/lan/catalyst6500/hardware/Module_Installation/Sup_Eng_Guide/0atransc.html#wp1008285

[martens72]

Thanks for the info on the 4500 Leo. I also read the specs on the Xenpack and X2 connectors, but I was wondering if they can be connected to the SFP connectors on our 3750's without issue. There doesn't seem to be any info on that; and I have seen people have issues connecting unlike modules.

[Leo Laohoo · Accepted solution]

SFP-10G can be interconnected to X2 or Xenpak. I've got a number of them connected this way.  Make sure SR/SX are connected to SR/SX, for example.

[Leo Laohoo]

Thanks for the rating.