Recent Updates


  • OSFP MSA Revision 5.21: Specification for OSFP Octal Small Form Factor Pluggable Module, is posted in the specification section of this website.

  • OSFP MSA Revision 5.2: Specification for OSFP Octal Small Form Factor Pluggable Module, is posted in the specification section of this website.

  • The OSFP MSA ad-hoc group is actively working on future enhancements to both the OSFP and OSFP-XD form factors. Currently we are exploring:
    1. Feasibility of data rates beyond 224Gb/s per lane
    2. Support for higher power modules beyond 43W
    3. Alternative voltage supply schemes to balance module and system power consumption
    4. Standardization of components for liquid-cooling applications
    5. Form factor management mechanisms enabling multi-protocol AI deployments
    Join the MSA today to participate in the ad-hoc group meetings and discussions.

For more information on how to join the OSFPmsa
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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the OSFP (Octal Small Form Factor Pluggable)?

A: The OSFP is a pluggable form factor with 8x high speed electrical lanes that support up to 400 Gbps (8x50G), 800 Gbps (8x100G), or 1.6 Tbps (8x200G). Up to 36 OSFP ports are supported in 1 U front panel.

Q: What are the variants of the OSFP form factors?

A: The standard OSFP form factor has an integrated heatsink for improved thermal performance. The heatsink can be either open top or closed top. Meanwhile, OSFP-RHS provides same electrical performance but does not have integrated heatsink. As such, a separate cooling solution in the form of a riding heatsink (RHS) is required and allows for greater versatility. Refer to the OSFP specification for the further details.

Q: What is the OSFP-XD (Octal Small Form Factor Pluggable – Extended Density)?

A: The OSFP-XD is a pluggable form factor with 16x high speed electrical lanes, doubling the faceplate density versus OSFP. Hence, it supports up to 800 Gbps (16x50G), 1.6 Tbps (16x100G), or 3.2 Tbps (8x200G). The OSFP-XD specification is a separate document.

Q: Are OSFP and OSFP-XD Interoperable/Cross-compatible?

A: No, due to mechanical and electrical differences, OSFP modules are not compatible with OSFP-XD ports, and vice-versa. Mechanical keying features on the modules prevents insertion into the wrong port type.

Q: What does the OSFP MSA do?

A: The OSFP MSA defines the OSFP and OSFP-XD specifications, including the mechanical module, the card cage, the electrical interface and pinout.