Understanding Aruba 4×4 Part Numbers: Ensuring Compatibility and Performance in Your Network

Aruba Networks utilizes unique identifiers known as “4×4” part numbers to manage and ensure compatibility across its transceivers, Direct Attach Cables (DACs), and Active Optical Cables (AOCs). Understanding these identifiers is crucial for network professionals aiming to maintain optimal performance and compliance within their Aruba network environments.

What are 4×4 Part Numbers?

A “4×4” part number is a numerical identifier formatted as “nnnn-nnnn” and is printed on the label of Aruba transceivers, DACs, or AOCs. This identifier distinguishes between products that may share the same SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) but are sourced from different vendors. For instance, the Aruba transceiver model J9151E (10G LR) might have associated 4×4 part numbers like 1990-4727 or 1990-4694, each representing a different vendor source.

Transceiver in 1/1/51
Interface Name : 1/1/51
Type : 1G-LX / 1G SFP LX
Transceiver Status : An HPE pluggable module that is supported in this interface
Diagnostic Support : DOM
Connector Type : LC
Wavelength : 1310nm
Transfer Distance : 10.00km (SMF), 0m (OM1), 0m (OM2), 0m (OM3)
Product Number : J4859D
Serial Number : EO12408020767
Part Number : 1990-4116

Why are 4×4 Part Numbers important?

Device Compatibility: Aruba devices are designed to support specific 4×4 part numbers. Using a transceiver with an unsupported 4×4 part number can lead to incompatibility issues, affecting network performance.

Feature Support: Certain features, such as Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM), may only be available on transceivers with specific 4×4 part numbers. Older vendor parts might lack support for these features, making it essential to verify the 4×4 part number to ensure the desired functionality.

Firmware and Software Updates: Aruba provides firmware updates tailored to specific 4×4 part numbers. Selecting a transceiver with an incorrect or unsupported 4×4 part number may hinder the ability to apply necessary updates, potentially compromising network security and performance.

Regulatory Compliance: Some 4×4 part numbers are region-specific, ensuring adherence to local communication regulations. Installing a transceiver with an incorrect 4×4 part number may violate regulatory guidelines, leading to legal and operational challenges.

Warranty and Support: Aruba’s warranty and support agreements are often tied to specific 4×4 part numbers. Utilizing unauthorized or unsupported hardware can void these agreements, leaving the network without official support.

How to choose the correct 4×4 Part Number for your Aruba device

Selecting the appropriate 4×4 part number involves several key steps:

• Check Aruba’s Compatibility Resources: Aruba has published official documentation, including datasheets and QuickSpecs, detailing which 4×4 part numbers are supported by specific devices and software versions. Reviewing these resources ensures that the chosen transceiver is compatible with your network equipment. AOS-S and AOS-CX Transceiver Guide and Models, specifications, and compatibility documentation.
• Utilize CLI Commands: Aruba devices offer Command Line Interface (CLI) commands to display installed transceiver information, including the 4×4 part number. For example, executing show interface transceiver provides detailed data about connected transceivers, aiding in verification and troubleshooting.

Error fixing

If a part number is used on a Aruba device that does not support it, the device may show this error: “Port 1/L1 self test failure ERR: 000E8000” (Aruba 5406 as an example)

In such case, to have a working solution, please contact our support team for transceiver, DAC or AOC recoding. Our team will recode items for you so they can be used in their full efficiency.

Conclusion

Understanding and correctly identifying Aruba’s 4×4 part numbers is essential for ensuring device compatibility, accessing desired features, and maintaining regulatory compliance within your network infrastructure. By diligently verifying these identifiers through available resources and tools, network professionals can uphold the integrity and performance of their Aruba-based systems.

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