Bigleaf Installation Guides

Using Fiber Modules with Bigleaf Routers

Most Bigleaf routers support high-speed fiber connections using a small form-factor pluggable (SFP) module. The module connects your fiber cable to a square-shaped SFP port on the Bigleaf router and helps provide fast communication on a fiber network. Some Bigleaf routers are shipped with SFP modules, although you can use your own.

An SFP module can be a standard size, with speeds up to 1 Gbps, or an SFP+ that accommodates speeds of 10 Gbps or more. Most Bigleaf router models can be used with an SFP, although the BLR-108 supports only the standard size SFP, and the BLR-112 with an expansion card supports only SFP+.

Here are some general guidelines for using an SFP module with Bigleaf routers:

  • The same size SFP module must be used on each end of the cable. For example, 10Gbps SFP+ modules can’t negotiate with 1Gbps SFP standard modules on the same cable.
  • You can’t connect an SFP module into an Ethernet port and an SFP port for the same interface on the router at the same time.
  • You can’t connect an ethernet cable directly into an SFP port. You must use an SFP or SFP+ transceiver that enables an ethernet cable to be used with an SFP port.
  • 1Gbps SFPs do not work in the Bigleaf 10Gbps SFP+ ports, which are not backward compatible on the Bigleaf routers.
  • A multi-mode SFP module must be used with multi-mode fiber, and single-mode SFP module must be used with single-mode fiber.

Supported SFP Modules

For a complete list of SFP module models we’ve tested and support with the specified Bigleaf routers, see the Using SFP modules with Bigleaf routers KB article.

Installing an expansion card into a BigLeaf Router

Please note- your device may vary from the images below, however the labeling will be consistent
 Remove the faceplate using a flathead screwdriver. Unscrew the two screws at the top of the faceplate to the right of the ethernet ports.

 Remove the faceplate using a flathead screwdriver. Unscrew the two screws at the top of the faceplate to the right of the ethernet ports