Replacing SFPs on GE I/O Modules

This section describes how to replace small form-factor pluggable transceivers (SFPs) on Gigabit Ethernet (GE) modules that support these devices. A range of SFPs that support different optical modes (multimode and single mode) and cabling distances is available. You can replace the SFPs without disabling the interfaces or removing the module from the system.

Warning: Do not insert any metal object, such as a screwdriver, or place your hand into an open slot or the backplane when the ERX system is on. Remove jewelry (including rings, necklaces, and watches) before working on equipment that is connected to power lines. These actions prevent electric shock and serious burns.

Caution: When handling electronic components, use an antistatic wrist strap connected to the system's ESD grounding jack, and hold components by their edges. Do not touch, pins, leads, or solder connections. Store components in antistatic bags. These actions help to protect modules from damage by electrostatic discharge.

Removing SFPs

To remove the SFPs:

1. Obtain an antistatic container for the SFPs you will remove (see Storing Modules and Components, earlier in this chapter).
2. Put the antistatic wrist strap on your wrist, and connect the strap to the ESD grounding jack on the system.
3. Disconnect the cables from one of the SFPs on the module.
4. Identify the release mechanism for the SFP.

Different SFPs use different release mechanisms (see Figure 7-2). Possible release mechanisms include:

• A button that you press inward
• A ring that you press inward
• A bar that you pull sideways, then outward
• A tab that you pull sideways, then outward

Figure 7-2 Possible release mechanisms on the SFP

5. Release the SFP and pull it out of the slot.
6. Place the SFP in an antistatic bag.
7. If you are using the redundant port on the ERX GE I/O module, repeat steps 3 through 6 for the other SFP.

Caution: For port redundancy to operate correctly, both the primary and redundant ports on an ERX GE I/O module must use the same type of SFP.

Installing SFPs

To install SFPs:

1. Put the antistatic wrist strap on your wrist, and connect the strap to the ESD grounding jack on your system.
2. Identify the following items on the SFP (see Figure 7-3):

• The connection circuitry on the base
• The cable connectors on the front

The cable connectors will be protected by a dust cover.

Figure 7-3 Example of SFP

Caution: Be sure to position the SFP correctly before you install it.

3. Hold the SFP so that:

• The connection circuitry is adjacent to the TX and RX markings on the module's faceplate.
• The front will be visible when you install the SFP.

For a picture of the correct orientation, see Figure 7-4.

Figure 7-4 Installing an SFP on an ERX GE I/O module

4. Insert the SFP as far as you can into the I/O module.

The SFP should slide smoothly into the I/O module and should click into place. If the SFP does not slide smoothly into the I/O module, check that the orientation of the SFP is correct.

5. Gently pull the SFP to confirm that it is inserted correctly.

The SFP should not move when you pull it. If the SFP comes out of the slot when you pull it, repeat step 4.

6. Remove the dust cover that protects the ports.
7. Connect the new cables to the SFP.

If you are using the redundant port on the ERX GE I/O module, repeat steps 2 through 7 for the other port.

Verifying the Installation

When you have replaced the SFPs and connected the cables, issue the show interface gigabitEthernet command for each interface to check that the interface is operational (up).

• Field descriptions

• gigabitEthernet interfaceSpecifier - status of the hardware on this interface

• up - hardware is operational
• down - hardware is not operational

• Administrative status - operational state that you configured for this interface

• up - interface is enabled
• down - interface is disabled

• Example

host1:vr2#show interfaces gigabitEthernet2/0

gigabitEthernet2/0 is Up, Administrative status is Up