Pulse's SFP 2x8 connector provides high port density

Feb. 18, 2009
FEBRUARY 18, 2009 -- Pulse has introduced a 2x8 SFP cage for use in high-end Ethernet networking equipment such as blade servers, switches, routers, and add/drop multiplexers. The SFP032-L cage is used for connecting transceivers and shielding them from electromagnetic interference (EMI), say company representatives.

FEBRUARY 18, 2009 -- Electronic component and subassembly
manufacturer Pulse today announced that it has expanded its line of connectors and cages with a 2x8 small-form-factor-pluggable (SFP) cage for use in high-end Ethernet networking equipment such as blade servers, switches, routers, and add/drop multiplexers.

The SFP032-L cage is used for connecting transceivers and shielding them from electromagnetic interference (EMI). Its high port density results in cost savings for customers, say Pulse representatives.

According to the company, several unique features of the SFP032-L cage eliminate frequently encountered problems. The cage has a two-piece structure to prevent deforming during press fitting. Press fitting force is applied only to the cage's top section, while forces on either side of the cage are balanced so they will not twist or buckle. To prevent interference with the transceiver, the improved EMI tab rests on the cage so that the end does not sink into the cage when pressed. Pulse says it modified the cage with a special latch to accommodate a variety of transceivers and transceiver modifications, including those with short-travel actuating slides, which are commonly difficult to access to unlock and extract. Pulse also increased the slot depth of the middle cage, preventing interference with the middle cage transceiver, another common problem.

The company's new 2x8 cage measures 25.5-mm high x 63.25-mm deep x 114.25-mm wide. The footprint is compliant with the SFP Transceiver MultiSource Agreement (MSA) standard and is RoHS compliant. It handles speeds up to 5 gigabits and improves connectivity in high-density printed circuit board (PCB) environments. The cage reduces the operating temperature of the transceiver, protects the transceiver from EMI emissions, provides mechanical stability, and offers easy transceiver plug-in, claim company representatives. Holes in the cage allow air circulation and heat transfer. The cages can withstand temperatures of - 40 ° to + 85 ° C.

Pulse says its cages and connectors are versatile; they can handle optical transceiver links as well as transceivers configured as traditional copper RJ45 connectors, enabling conformity to each company's internal networking requirements for balancing load and bandwidth.

"Pulse continues to expand its line of connectors and cages to improve the performance and reliability of the transceivers, and thus the network they are connecting," reports Michael Cheng, director of connector research and development at Pulse. "Our unique construction makes these cages more rugged and compatible with a wide variety of commercial transceivers."

Pulse's SFP032-L cage is available in tray packaging with prices starting around $40 each. Volume discounts are available. Individual part pricing may vary due to order configuration and shipping destination. Lead time is six weeks.


Visit Pulse

Sponsored Recommendations

April 9, 2025
As transceiver speeds increase, so do thermal challenges. Discover key insights into innovative cooling solutions that ensure optimal performance and reliability.
March 12, 2025
Join us for an engaging discussion with industry experts on the intersection of AI and optics. Moderated by Sean Buckley, editor-in-chief of Lightwave+BTR, this panel will explore...
March 25, 2025
Explore how government initiatives and industry innovations are transforming rural broadband deployments, overcoming cost and logistical challenges to connect underserved areas...
Dec. 6, 2024
The metro network continues to evolve. As service providers have built out fiber in metro areas, they have offered Ethernet-based data services to businesses and other providers...