Arista QSFP-100G-PLR4-Arista | 100G QSFP28 Transceiver, 1310nm, 10km, MPO-12 SMF

Q: What is the difference between PLR4 and LR4 transceivers?
A: The QSFP-100G-PLR4 uses parallel single-mode fiber with an MPO-12 connector (8 fibers total - 4 transmit, 4 receive) and operates at 1310nm, while the QSFP-100G-LR4 uses duplex single-mode fiber with LC connectors and multiplexes four wavelengths onto two fibers. Both support 10km reach but PLR4 offers simpler parallel optics without wavelength multiplexing.

Q: Can this transceiver be broken out to lower speeds?
A: Yes, the QSFP-100G-PLR4 supports breakout configurations to 4x 25GBASE-LR for links up to 2km, or 4x 10G. Forward error correction (FEC) mode must match on both ends for successful link establishment. It can also interoperate with 400G-PLR4 modules in breakout scenarios.

Q: What are the power requirements for this transceiver?
A: The QSFP-100G-PLR4 has a maximum power consumption of 4.0W, which is within the standard QSFP28 power envelope. Most Arista 100G QSFP ports are designed to handle transceivers drawing up to 4.5W, making this module compatible with standard switch platforms without special power considerations.

Q: Is this transceiver compatible with non-Arista equipment?
A: Yes, as long as the host equipment supports QSFP28 MSA standards and 100GBASE-PLR4 specifications. The transceiver follows industry-standard specifications for form factor and optical performance, enabling interoperability with other vendors' equipment that supports the same standards.

Q: What fiber type and cable are required?
A: This transceiver requires parallel single-mode fiber (SMF) with an MPO-12 APC connector. The cable must have 12 fibers arranged in a parallel configuration with APC (angled physical contact) polishing. Standard G.652 single-mode fiber is suitable for distances up to 10km.