The iConverter XGT+ is a 10 Gigabit Ethernet media converter with one 10GBASE-T RJ-45 port and one XFP or SFP+ pluggable transceiver port that provides copper-to-fiber media conversion.
The iConverter XGT+ provides a variety of 10G data center connectivity solutions, including resolving interface disparities between equipment with 10GBASE-T RJ-45 ports and existing rack servers or switches with fiber optic ports. Architecture changes such as migrating from Top of Rack to End of Row can present cabling challenges when extending network distances from racks of servers. The XGT+ converts short-reach cabling to multimode fiber, single-mode fiber or CAT-6A cabling (up to 100 meters) to extend distances to servers, switches and patch panels. For CAT-6A cabling links less than 30 meters, the XGT+ supports 10GBASE-T Short Reach mode. In this mode, the device conserves energy by reducing power and cooling requirements.
The iConverter XGT+ also supports CWDM and DWDM transceivers to convert 10GBASE-T interfaces to WDM wavelengths. This enables connecting equipment with 10GBASE-T interfaces to iConverter CWDM multiplexers that expand fiber capacity and transport multiple 10G data channels across existing fiber links.
The XGT+ supports high-power (power level 4) XFP transceivers and the latest generation of wavelength tunable DWDM XFP transceivers. The wavelength of a tunable transceiver can be programmed and saved, eliminating the need for external programming equipment.
Built-in loopback functions, on-board status LEDs and link fault propagation modes facilitate easy setup and quick troubleshooting.
The iConverter XGT+ is available as a compact, unmanaged standalone unit, or chassis plug-in module that can be managed with a management module installed in the chassis. The hot-swappable, plug-in modules can be mounted in a variety of chassis with AC and DC power supplies.
The standalone iConverter XGT+ has built-in mounting brackets. It is DC powered and available with an external AC to DC power adapter, or a terminal connector for wiring directly to a DC power source.
Examples | Data Center Application
In this application, new 10GBASE-T servers are added to an existing rack of servers with SFP+ interfaces. The servers are connected to a Top of Rack fiber switch with Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cables. The switch is connected to an aggregation switch in the data center with multimode fiber.
iConverter XGT+ plug-in media converters are installed in a high density (2U high), iConverter 19-Module chassis with redundant power supplies. CAT-6A patch cords connect the new servers to the XGT+ media converters, and DAC cables connect the media converters to the fiber switch.
Since the 10GBASE-T servers are connected to the 10GBASE-T media converters over a short cable (less than 30 meters) they can take advantage of the 10GBASE-T Short Reach mode, in which all devices operate with a lower transmit power. Short reach mode is specified in the IEEE 10GBASE-T standard, and conserves energy and produces less heat.