Re:GBIC's Still To Expensive (Score 1)

Having worked in IT only for SMBs, I didn't know much about FCoE so in that sense TFA and these comments are quite informative for me. That said, I don't anticipate deploying FCoE (or any type of FC) anytime soon since we don't have a need for the FC-specific benefits. I am in the process of building a new server room for an office relocation, and have already designed the LAN access/distribution layers using Catalysts using 10GbE trunks to the core. I have to agree that GBICs are way too expensive--especially when implementing 10GbE functionality on the 2960 series switches. I don't have the numbers, but IIRC the total cost for the required modules and SFPs was actually close to the base switches themselves! Then, Cisco charges an arm and a leg just to stack their switches... Granted, you pay for what you get, and Cisco is [arguably] the premium for network hardware... but I can't help feeling a lot of the high cost is just not warranted. Personally, instead of FCoE, I wish Cisco would drive 10GbE (and other Ethernet-enhancing features, proprietary or not) costs down and make it more affordable for smaller shops and enthusiasts.