Cisco 3200 Series Router Hardware Upgrade Guide
Replacing the SFP Module

Table Of Contents

Replacing the SFP Module

SFP Module Replacement Process


Replacing the SFP Module


This chapter describes how to replace small-form-factor pluggable (SFP) modules. SFP modules are inserted into the SFP module slot on the Cisco 3270 Rugged Router card. These modules provide the uplink optical interfaces, laser send (TX) and laser receive (RX).

The following are qualified Gigabit SFP modules:

Gigabit Multi-Mode SFP (Cisco part number: GLC-SX-MM-RGD):

Gigabit Single-Mode SFP (Cisco part number: GLC-LX-SM-RGD):

Each SFP must be of the same type as the SFP on the other end of the cable, and the cable must not exceed the stipulated cable length for reliable communications. Figure 4-1 shows an SFP module that has a bale-clasp latch.


Caution We strongly recommend that you not install or remove the SFP module while the fiber-optic cable is attached to it because of the potential damage to the cables, to the cable connector, or to the optical interfaces in the SFP module. Disconnect the cable before you remove or install an SFP module.

Removing and inserting an SFP module can shorten its useful life. Do not remove and insert SFP modules more often than is necessary.

Figure 4-1 SFP Module with a Bale-Clasp Latch


Caution To avoid damaging the cables, follow standard fiber-optic cleaning procedures when connecting fiber- optic cables to fiber-optic ports.


Caution To prevent electrostatic damage to cards in the rugged enclosure, attach an ESD-preventive wrist strap to your wrist and to a bare metal surface on the chassis of the enclosure before you start the SFP replacement process.

SFP Module Replacement Process

This section describes how to replace an SFP module.


Warning Class 1 laser product. Statement 1008


To insert an SFP module into the SFP module slot, follow these steps:


Caution Attach an ESD-preventive wrist strap to your wrist and to a bare metal surface on the chassis.

Step 4 Remove the antenna end cap by using a 3/8-inch socket wrench to loosen the bolts.

Step 5 Disconnect the (LC) from the SFP module.


Tip For reattachment, note which cable connector plug is send (TX) and which is receive (RX).


Step 6 Insert a dust plug into each optical port of the SFP module to keep the optical interfaces clean.


Caution To avoid damaging the optical surface, do not touch the optical surfaces.

Step 7 Unlock and remove the SFP module, as shown in Figure 4-2.

Figure 4-2 Disconnecting SFP Latch Mechanisms

Step 8 Pull the bale-clasp latch out and down to eject the module. If the bale-clasp latch 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 latch.

Step 9 Grasp the SFP module between your thumb and index finger, and carefully remove it from the module slot.

Step 10 Place the removed SFP module in an antistatic bag or other protective environment.


Caution Do not remove the rubber plugs from the SFP module port or the rubber caps from the fiber-optic cable until you are ready to connect the cable. The plugs and caps protect the SFP module ports and cables from contamination and ambient light.

Step 11 Find the send (TX) and receive (RX) markings that identify the top side of the replacement SFP module.


Note On some SFP modules, the send (TX) and receive (RX) markings might be replaced by arrows that show the direction of the connection, either send or receive (TX or RX).


Step 12 Align the SFP module in front of the slot opening.

Step 13 Insert the SFP module into the slot until you feel the connector on the module snap into place in the back of the slot.

Step 14 Remove the dust plugs from the SFP module optical ports. Store the plugs for later use.


Caution Do not remove the dust plugs from the SFP module port or the rubber caps from the fiber-optic cable until you are ready to connect the cable. The plugs and caps protect the SFP module ports and cables from contamination and ambient light.

Step 15 Clean the fiber-optic connectors by using standard procedures.

Step 16 Insert the LC cable connector into the SFP module.

Step 17 Verify that the gasket is in place and replace the antenna end cap by using a 3/8-inch socket wrench to remove the bolts, torquing the bolts to 58 to 68 in-lb.


For more information about replacing SFP modules and diagnosing their problems, see Cisco 3200 Series Router Hardware Reference Guide.