25G SFP28 SR for HPE BladeSystem 845398-B21 - 25GBASE-SR Transceiver

In this review the 25G SFP28 SR for HPE BladeSystem 845398-B21 is presented as a focused optical transceiver for network engineers and data center technicians who need reliable short-reach 25Gbps links. The bottom line: it excels where compatibility with HPE BladeSystem modules and predictable multimode performance up to 100m are the priority. Our review highlights its straightforward fit with SFP28+ MSA equipment, DOM support for monitoring, and practical distance range, making it a solid choice for server uplinks and 25GBASE-SR deployments.

Key Features

• Form factor: The SFP28 module provides a compact duplex LC optical interface that fits standard SFP28 ports for simple installation.
• Distance range: Rated for up to 100m on multimode fiber, it covers common short-reach links within racks and across adjacent cabinets.
• Optical wavelength: The 850nm VCSEL design is optimized for multimode fiber types such as OM3 and OM4 commonly used in data centers.
• Error correction: Support for RS-FEC and FC-FEC helps maintain data integrity on 25Gbps links and improves resiliency in noisy links.
• Monitoring: SFF-8472 DOM support delivers real-time diagnostics for optical power and temperature to aid operations and troubleshooting.
• Compatibility: Marketed specifically for BladeSystem 845398-B21 deployments, reducing compatibility guesswork in matched environments.

Who It's For

The module is aimed at IT professionals managing 25GBASE-SR Ethernet ports, including server uplinks, leaf-spine fabrics and 100GE SR4 fan-out to 25GE SR conversions where short multimode runs are required. It is particularly useful for teams who need DOM telemetry and FEC support to stabilize high-speed links.

Those who should look elsewhere include users needing single-mode long-reach optics, transceivers for non-SFP28 form factors, or deployments that require validated vendor-branded warranty cross-coverage beyond the stated maintenance and replacement terms.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact SFP28 form factor that fits existing 25G ports and simplifies upgrades.
• Up to 100m reach on multimode fiber covers most in-rack and short inter-rack cabling needs.
• DOM plus SFF-8472 compliance gives useful monitoring for operational visibility.
• FEC support improves link reliability at 25Gbps in real-world conditions.

Cons

• Limited to multimode short-reach applications and not suitable for long-distance single-mode links.
• Compatibility is described for BladeSystem 845398-B21 specifically, so mixed environments may need validation before deployment.

Specifications

Form factor	SFP28 duplex LC
Data rate	25Gbps
Wavelength	850nm
Maximum reach	Up to 100m on multimode (OM4), 70m on OM3
Standards	SFP28+ MSA, SFF-8472
Error correction	Supports RS-FEC and FC-FEC
Monitoring	DOM (digital optical monitoring)

Our Verdict

This 25G SFP28 SR transceiver is a practical, cost-effective choice for data centers and server rooms that require reliable short-reach 25Gbps links with diagnostic visibility. Buyers who need multimode, in-rack connectivity and FEC/DOM support will find good value here, while environments that require long-reach single-mode optics should select a different module.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this module work in non-HPE switches?
It follows SFP28+ MSA standards so it is compatible with many SFP28 ports, but mixed environments should be validated for compatibility before large deployments.

What fiber type and distance can be expected?
Designed for multimode fiber: up to 100m on OM4 and about 70m on OM3 at 25Gbps.

Does it provide monitoring data?
Yes, it supports SFF-8472 DOM for optical power, temperature and other diagnostics to aid troubleshooting.