Based on studies, quality issues most frequently found are related to reliability, compatibility, and interoperability.
Coding is reported as the biggest issue with optics reading as the wrong part and receiving messages of “unsupported data”. This can cause network delays and system reboots, taking up critical time and possibly needing a system engineer to triage.
We understand the importance of quality and take measured steps in our manufacturing and testing processes. Our optics are coded and tested in its intended environment so that it functions 100% the same as an OEM version. Compatibility is key to ensure a seamless connection with no downtime.
Known coding issues from some third-party suppliers:
Sample products tested include common transceiver types such as SFP LX, QSFP LR4, SFP+ DWDM and a variety of DACs and AOCs.
Feedback for these parts in Cisco and other OEM systems is read as:
Transceivers –
- Wrong part number shown in the EEPROM
- Consequence:Certain features may not be supported, and additional configuration may be required.
- No “PID” displays
- Consequence:The switch may not recognize the part and can lead to disabled ports. Alternatively, the product may work now but future OEM software updates may cause failures down the road.
- Displays "Non-Cisco" (Or other OEM)
- Consequence:When a part shows as a non-Cisco part or other non-OEM part it may render the port unusable and a replacement or recoded transceiver is needed.
- Receive "UNSUPPORTED" message upon inserting in any switch ports
- Consequence:If the switch reads the part as non-compatible it may not be usable. Recoding or a replacement transceiver is again required.
- No “PID” displays
- o Consequence:The switch may not recognize the part and can lead to disabled ports
- No DOM reporting available on AOCs in multiple platforms
- Consequence:The lack of reporting may limit troubleshooting and monitoring capabilities
- Module SPROM display 0 meters
- o Consequence: The lack of detail may cause issues with troubleshooting and monitoring capabilities
DACs and AOCs –
- Wrong part number shown in the EEPROM
- Consequence:Certain features may not be supported, and additional configuration may be required.
To learn more about how we fully ensure our optics, check out our DTS page.