ZQSFP+ Ganged 2x3 — 228 Positions, Press-Fit, Integrated Shield and Light Pipe
The 228 positions break down as 38 per port, matching the standard ZQSFP+ interface pinout. Press-fit termination means the connector presses into plated through-holes without solder, a requirement for high-speed backplane assemblies where solder voids and thermal distortion degrade signal integrity above 25 Gbps per lane. The integrated EMI shield and molded-in light pipe reduce component count on the board: one pick-and-place operation replaces a separate cage, shield can, and light pipe assembly.
ZQSFP+ vs Standard QSFP+ — What the Enhanced Interface Means for the Build
ZQSFP+ (Z-Pluggable QSFP+) is TE's enhanced version of the standard QSFP+ form factor. The key difference is the integrated cage and shielding: the 2227671-3 combines the receptacle, cage, and EMI shield into one press-fit body, whereas a standard QSFP+ connector typically requires a separate cage assembly and a gasket. The 2x3 ganged configuration means six ports share a common shield structure, reducing crosstalk between adjacent ports compared to individual cages. The press-fit interface also eliminates the reflow profile constraints of a soldered cage — important when the connector sits on a thick backplane with mixed via sizes. Standard QSFP+ modules mate directly with this ZQSFP+ receptacle; the interface is mechanically and electrically compatible.
Press-Fit Termination — Board Layout and Assembly Notes
Press-fit termination requires a specific PCB hole diameter and a controlled insertion force per compliant pin for TE's ZQSFP+ connectors. The integrated light pipe routes the port status LEDs to the front panel.