GBIC modules are hot-swappable transceivers that convert electrical and optical signals to transfer data at speeds of 1 gigabit per second or faster over networks. They simplify network design and administration by allowing flexible installation and replacement without needing to power down systems. GBIC modules are used to increase data transfer speeds and control costs for companies transferring large amounts of data.

1. GBIC Modules, Hot-swappable, Features & Functions
GBIC Modules are considered hot-swappable.
GBIC (gigabit interface converter) is a transceiver that converts between electrical
and optical signals for high-speed networking.
A gigabit interface converter (GBIC) module is available in many forms depending on
the model and brand manufacturer. Each has the same job, which is increasing the
transfer speed of data over a network. Companies who need large amounts of data
transferred quickly sometimes use a GBIC module for increased control and
cost-effectiveness.
Function
A GBIC module acts as a transceiver that turns electric currents into optical signals,
before changing those optical signals into digital electric currents, as stated by
searchcio-midmarket.com. The process was created to simplify switch and hub
design. Each GBIC module is in place for making system administration of
electro-optical communication networks easier. These modules plug directly into a
system. They were first designed to support Fibre Channel data networks but are also
used with Gigabit Ethernet setups. This device made it possible for users to avoid
buying fully populated switching equipment.
Transfer Speed
Data transfer rates vary on GBIC module model specifications, but they have a
minimum of 1 gigabit per second. Manufacturers, such as Cisco, make GBIC modules
with varying transfer speeds.
Uses
A GBIC module allows a user to reconfigure fiber links, configure tailor receiver costs,
link networking distances and organize network topologies based on set
requirements. Used on a fiber optic or an Ethernet system, GBIC modules can be
upgraded, swapped out or plugged in without turning off the computer. This
flexibility eliminates the need to replace entire system networking boards.

2. More Related: Gigabit Interface Converter (GBIC) Module and Small Form-Factor
Pluggable (SFP) GBIC Module Install. Info.and Specifications
http://www.cisco.com/en/US/docs/routers/7200/install_and_upgrade/gbic_sfp_mo
dules_install/5067g.html
GBIC Product Numbers:
WS-G5484, WS-G5486, WS-G5487, CWDM-GBIC-1470=, CWDM-GBIC-1490=,
CWDM-GBIC-1510=,
CWDM-GBIC-1530=, CWDM-GBIC-1550=, CWDM-GBIC-1570=, CWDM-GBIC-1590=,
CWDM-GBIC-1610=
SFP Product Numbers:
SFP-GE-F=, SFP-GE-S=, SFP-GE-L=, SFP-GE-Z=, GLC-SX-MM=, GLC-LH-SM=,
GLC-ZX-SM=, GLC-T=, CWDM-SFP-1470=, CWDM-SFP-1490=, CWDM-SFP-1510=,
CWDM-SFP-1530=, CWDM-SFP-1550=, CWDM-SFP-1570=, CWDM-SFP-1590=,
CWDM-SFP-1610=.