LightWare 10G SFP+ to RJ45 SFP+ to Ethernet copper module

Product Overview

The Lightware 10G SFP+ to RJ45 Copper Module is a 10Gbps SFP+ transceiver with an integrated RJ45 port, enabling 10GbE connectivity over Cat6A or Cat7 copper cabling. It plugs into any standard SFP+ cage and presents a 10GBASE-T copper interface — eliminating the need for a separate media converter when connecting copper-cabled devices to fiber-uplinked switches. Designed for use in Lightware VINX AV-over-IP infrastructure and compatible with any MSA-compliant SFP+ host. Available from Creation Networks.

Product Description

In AV-over-IP deployments, not every endpoint is connected by fiber. Devices like AV-over-IP encoders, decoders, and network appliances may use copper RJ45 connections, while the backbone switch uses SFP+ fiber uplinks. The 10G SFP+ to RJ45 module bridges this gap by providing a copper 10GBASE-T interface on an SFP+ transceiver — allowing a copper-cabled device to connect directly to an SFP+ port on a switch without requiring a standalone media converter, additional power supply, or rack space. This module is particularly useful for VINX deployments where a mix of copper and fiber connections are required in the same switch chassis. Plug-and-play installation with no configuration required.

Key Features

• 10Gbps SFP+ form factor with RJ45 copper port
• 10GBASE-T over Cat6A (up to 55m) or Cat7 (up to 100m)
• Eliminates the need for a separate media converter
• Plug-and-play — no drivers or configuration required
• MSA-compliant — fits any standard SFP+ cage
• Auto-negotiation: supports 10G, 1G, and 100Mbps fallback
• Compatible with Lightware VINX AV-over-IP switch infrastructure

Typical Applications

• Connecting copper-cabled AV-over-IP endpoints to SFP+-uplinked core switches
• Mixed copper/fiber Lightware VINX deployments in a single switch chassis
• Eliminating standalone media converters in AV rack designs
• 10G copper connections to servers, NAS, or computing endpoints in AV environments
• Any installation requiring 10GbE over Cat6A/Cat7 at an SFP+ switch port

Technical Specifications

Competitor Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What cable category is required for 10G operation?

Cat6A is required for 10G at distances up to 55 meters. Cat7 extends the reach to 100 meters at 10G. Standard Cat5e or Cat6 cable will not support 10G at full distance and may not achieve 10G at all.

Will this module auto-negotiate to lower speeds if required?

Yes. The module supports auto-negotiation and will fall back to 1Gbps or 100Mbps if the connected device does not support 10G. This makes it compatible with existing lower-speed copper-connected equipment during phased infrastructure upgrades.

Is this module compatible with Cisco switches without vendor coding?

The module is MSA-compliant. Cisco switches running IOS may generate a warning or disable the port for unrecognized SFP+ modules. Contact Creation Networks to verify compatibility with your specific switch model before ordering.

How does this compare to using a standalone media converter?

This module eliminates the need for a standalone media converter, its power supply, and the rack or shelf space required to mount it. The copper 10G connection is handled entirely within the SFP+ cage, simplifying rack design and reducing points of failure.

What is the power consumption of this module?

10GBASE-T SFP+ modules consume more power than fiber transceivers — typically up to 2.5W. Verify that the SFP+ host switch can supply sufficient power per port for this module, particularly when using multiple ports simultaneously.