GigaTAP Modules

GigaTAP modules provide internal TAP (Tapping Access Point) capabilities to passively copy optical traffic flowing between two external sources (typically, switches, routers, and servers) into the GigaVUE‑HC2 node.

These modules contains 24 fiber ports, set up in pairs to allow bidirectional traffic to continue to flow between the original sources and destinations. Since there are 12 sets of port pairs, the modules provide for 12 TAPs. An internal optical splitter passively copies the traffic to the backplane at line speeds. Even in the event of a power loss in the chassis, traffic will continue to pass between the original source and destination.

Unlike an external TAP, an internal TAP has no external ports for the copied traffic; as the traffic goes directly to the backplane of the unit. This maximizes the use of the ports on the module to provide maximum TAP density. This also prevents unauthorized users from attaching a local Sniffer to capture and see the packets without permission. Thus, only users properly logged into the system gain access to sensitive information.

For internal transceiver and loss summary specifications, refer to Fiber TAP Specifications.