HPE StoreFabric B-Series 40GbE QSFP+ Bidirectional Transceiver

Engineered for data centers that demand reliability, scalability, and ultra-low latency, the HPE StoreFabric B-Series 40GbE QSFP+ Bidirectional Transceiver is a cornerstone for high-performance fabric architectures. This transceiver is designed to optimize interconnect reliability and reach within StoreFabric M-Series deployments, delivering robust 40 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity between compute nodes and switch nodes. By combining bidirectional efficiency with the proven resilience of HPE’s StoreFabric family, it enables dense, scalable fabrics that support critical workloads such as virtualization, analytics, AI inference, and scalable cloud services. If your environment requires predictable performance, simplified cabling, and expansive reach without compromising latency or throughput, this transceiver is purpose-built to satisfy those demands.

In modern data centers, interconnects determine how quickly data can move across the fabric. The HPE StoreFabric B-Series BiDi transceiver helps minimize cabling complexity while maximizing bandwidth, enabling efficient server-to-switch communication across racks and rows. With consistent performance under load and compatibility with the broader StoreFabric ecosystem, this transceiver supports dynamic workloads, multi-tenant environments, and growing data requirements. It’s designed to deliver the right balance of high bandwidth and low latency to keep applications responsive, from real-time business intelligence to big data processing and machine learning pipelines. When you invest in StoreFabric B-Series, you’re investing in a fabric that scales with your business while maintaining rigorous reliability standards, airtight manageability, and straightforward maintenance.

• High-bandwidth 40GbE connectivity ensures rapid data movement between servers and switches, reducing bottlenecks in busy data-center fabrics and supporting latency-sensitive applications with consistent performance.
• Bidirectional QSFP+ technology minimizes fiber count and simplifies cabling in dense deployments, enabling cleaner data-center racks and easier upgrades without compromising speed or reach.
• Designed for StoreFabric M-Series integration with optimized compatibility across the StoreFabric fabric stack, delivering dependable interconnects for scalable, multi-tier architectures.
• Reliable performance in demanding environments built to handle virtualization, cloud workloads, and analytics workloads with steady throughput and predictable latency under load.
• Plug-and-play install with broad ecosystem support supports quick deployment into compatible switches and servers, minimizing downtime and speeding up time-to-value for new fabric growth.

Technical Details of HPE StoreFabric B-Series 40GbE QSFP+ Bidirectional Transceiver

• Data rate: 40 Gbps
• Transceiver type: QSFP+ Bidirectional
• Optical interface: Bidirectional (BiDi) configuration, leveraging dual wavelengths on a single fiber pair (exact SKU specifications may vary)
• Fiber compatibility: Designed for bi-directional fiber applications common in data center fabrics; consult SKU documentation for exact fiber type (MMF/SMF) support
• Form factor compatibility: HPE StoreFabric M-Series fabric deployments; compatible with supported switches and servers in the StoreFabric ecosystem
• Operating environment: Standard data-center conditions; refer to the SKU’s official specifications for precise temperature and humidity ranges

How to install HPE StoreFabric B-Series 40GbE QSFP+ Bidirectional Transceiver

• Power down the host server and switch before installing the transceiver to prevent electrostatic discharge and protect sensitive electronics.
• Identify the correct QSFP+ port on the switch or server and verify compatibility with the StoreFabric B-Series transceiver SKU to ensure optimal performance.
• Carefully align the transceiver with the port and insert it straight into the QSFP+ slot until you hear/feel a secure click. Do not apply excessive force.
• Connect the fiber optics using the recommended BiDi duplex LC connectors. Ensure a clean, cleanly seated connection to avoid insertion loss and reflection issues.
• Power on the device and check the link status indicators on the transceiver and the corresponding port on the switch or server. Look for steady link lights indicating a healthy connection.
• Enter the fabric management interface to verify the transceiver is detected, and run a basic connectivity test across adjacent nodes to confirm throughput and latency targets are met.
• Where applicable, update the transceiver firmware to the recommended version for your platform to maximize compatibility and reliability with StoreFabric features.
• Document the installation with the SKU number and port mappings for future maintenance, capacity planning, and troubleshooting.

Frequently asked questions

What is the HPE StoreFabric B-Series 40GbE QSFP+ Bidirectional Transceiver used for?

This transceiver enables high-speed 40GbE connections in StoreFabric M-Series fabrics, allowing reliable server-to-switch interconnects with reduced cabling and improved management in dense data-center environments. It is designed to maximize bandwidth, lower latency, and simplify cabling in scalable fabric architectures.

Is this transceiver compatible with non-HPE devices?

Compatibility guidance varies by SKU and firmware version. The transceiver is designed for HPE StoreFabric ecosystems, but it may work with other vendors’ equipment if they adhere to QSFP+ BiDi interface standards and have heterogeneous fabric support. Always verify compatibility with your specific platform and SKU documentation before deployment.

What are BiDi transceivers, and how do they benefit data centers?

BiDi, or bidirectional transceivers, carry two wavelengths on a single fiber pair, effectively doubling the usable bandwidth on the same fiber infrastructure while reducing fiber counts and cable management complexity. In dense data centers, this translates to simpler cabling, lower material costs, and easier future upgrades without sacrificing performance.

How do I know if this transceiver is the right SKU for my environment?

Consult the SKU or UPC reference in your vendor documentation to confirm the exact optical specifications, wavelength configuration, and fiber type. Align the SKU’s specifications with your existing fiber plant (MMF or SMF), switch compatibility, and desired data rates to ensure a proper match with your fabric design and performance goals.

What maintenance or firmware considerations exist for long-term reliability?

Regularly monitor port health, link status, and error counters via your fabric management tools. Keep transceiver firmware up to date with recommended releases from HPE to ensure compatibility with new fabric features and to address known issues. Establish a scheduled review process for cabling integrity and replacement of aging components to maintain peak performance.