StarTech.com HPE 747698-B21 Compatible QSFP+ Module - 40GBASE-SR4 - 40GbE Multi Mode Fiber Optic Transceiver - 40GE Gigabit Ethernet QSFP+ - MPO 400m - 850nm - DDM HPE BladeSystem, c-Class

Product Overview

AI-generated summary

At £37.99 ex‑VAT, this is the kind of “keep the lights on” optic I’d consider for a UK data centre that has HPE-compatible QSFP+ gear and just needs a like-for-like replacement. StarTech compatible modules are typically a decent value versus genuine HPE spares, and the fact it supports DDM is genuinely useful in day-to-day ops—you can spot failing optics before they take links down. For patching blade systems in normal multi-mode short‑reach scenarios, it’s a straightforward buy and easy to justify on cost.

That said, it’s not for everyone. If your network team is picky about strict OEM part validation, firmware quirks, or you’re buying for a very mixed environment, you may waste time testing compatibility—so I’d only buy it if you know the exact HPE blade system line and module family it’s meant for. Also, don’t assume the “400m” claim makes it automatically safe for your specific fibre plant; real performance depends on your actual cabling and optics budget. If you need reliability above all and your spares strategy demands zero fuss, the genuine HPE module might still be worth the premium. But if you’re careful, know your distances, and want good value, this is a sensible replacement module.