We're starting to test out a number of 100g options.
While our "Mellanox End-to-End Ethernet Connectivity 100G Bundle" is on order and hasn't arrived yet, we wanted to connect a MCX416A-CCAT NIC to our Nexus switch at 100g.
This is has many parts where there might be problems. Input on any of the parts would be of help.
How we made the physical connection? The Nexus uses a CPAK LR4 transceiver, this connects via single mode fiber to a LR4-QSFP28 transceiver that is in the MLNX-en card. The LR4-QSFP28 transceiver is part TR-FC13L-N00 from InnoLight here in the Bay Area and China. (new from manufacturer but not able to be tested in any other gear). It is rated as a less than 3.5v transceiver part, a low power part.
No link light on this connection.
I know that the MLNX-en card has FEC enabled and can't be disabled. In testing with other switches and cards, I no longer have access to, I did see that if both ends don't have FEC enabled, the link doesn't come up. The Nexus techs don't see an obvious command to check or set FEC on their end.
The question is whether there is a community suggestion for this setup to enable FEC on the Nexus CPAK port or any of the other parts along the path.
Thanks,
Phil Reese