AOC cable CBO BlueOptics QSFP28 BO282803L20M 100G, active optical cable, length 20 m

The AOC cable CBO BlueOptics QSFP28 BO282803L20M 100G is an active optical cable delivering 100 gigabit Ethernet connectivity over a 20 meter pre-terminated optical link. Designed for direct attachment between QSFP28 ports, this cable eliminates the need for separate transceivers and provides a single, factory-terminated link for high-density deployments in data centers and enterprise network racks. The construction ensures low latency and immunity to electromagnetic interference, while the cable length supports mid-span trunking and short-reach interconnects between servers, switches and storage devices.

Advantages

This active optical cable offers high bandwidth at 100G through a single QSFP28 interface and simplifies installation by using a pre-terminated, plug-and-play design. The optical medium reduces susceptibility to electrical noise and crosstalk compared with copper alternatives, and the AOC form factor lowers power consumption compared with separate transceiver plus DAC combinations. With a 20 m reach, the cable supports flexible placement of equipment within racks and across adjacent aisles, helping to reduce cabling complexity and improve airflow in dense network environments.

Suitable for

• Short-reach 100G links between servers and top-of-rack or leaf switches
• High-density data centre trunking and inter-rack connectivity
• Storage area network interconnects requiring low latency and high throughput
• Aggregating traffic between aggregation switches and spine/leaf fabrics

Key specifications

• Interface: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Data rate: 100 Gbit/s
• Type: Active optical cable (AOC)
• Length: 20 metres
• Media: Multi-fibre optical link with factory-terminated connectors
• Latency: Low, suitable for latency-sensitive links
• Immunity: Resistant to electromagnetic interference

How to use

Install the cable by inserting each QSFP28 connector into the corresponding QSFP28 port on your devices until the latch engages. No separate transceivers are required. Ensure spare cable bend radius is observed and avoid tight bends or kinks; route the cable along trays or through cable managers to maintain airflow and access. Verify link negotiation and speed on connected devices; the link should present as a 100G interface when supported by both endpoints. For hot-plug operations, follow your equipment manufacturer's guidance for link bring-up.

Recommendations

Use this 20 m AOC for short-reach, high-density connections inside data centres. Keep the cable away from high-temperature zones and sharp edges, maintain the manufacturer‑specified bend radius, and document port pairs for maintenance. For longer distances or mixed-vendor compatibility concerns, verify QSFP28 port support and firmware compatibility before deployment.