AOC CBO SFP28 BlueOptics BO272703Q3M — Active Optical Cable 3 m, SFP28 (25Gbps)

The AOC CBO SFP28 BlueOptics BO272703Q3M — Active Optical Cable 3 m, SFP28 (25Gbps) is a factory-terminated, hot-pluggable SFP28 optical link designed for short-reach, high-bandwidth connections. This 3‑metre active optical cable delivers 25 Gbps full-duplex throughput for direct interconnects between switches, servers and network interface cards. It replaces copper twinax in top-of-rack and intra-rack environments to reduce weight and electromagnetic interference while maintaining low latency and predictable signal integrity.

Advantages

The active optical cable offers lower power consumption and reduced heat generation compared with longer copper links, and its optical construction eliminates common-mode EMI issues. Being a plug-and-play SFP28 form-factor solution, it simplifies cabling and reduces installation time in dense rack environments. The fixed 3 m length provides a predictable physical layout for rack-to-rack and switch-to-server connections while minimizing cable management complexity.

Suitable for

• Data centre uplinks and aggregation between 25 Gbps switch ports
• Direct server-to-switch or server-to-server connections inside racks
• High-density top-of-rack deployments where space and EMI control matter
• Low-latency interconnects for storage and compute clusters

Key specifications

• Connector type: SFP28 duplex optical
• Data rate: 25 Gbps per lane (full-duplex)
• Length: 3 metres
• Topology: Direct attach active optical cable (factory-terminated)
• Application: Short-reach rack-to-rack and intra-rack links
• Signal characteristics: Low latency, optical transmission to reduce EMI

How to use

Install the AOC by inserting each SFP28 plug into the corresponding SFP28 port on network equipment until the module latches. Ensure both ends are seated and that the host devices are powered and configured for 25 Gbps operation. No separate transceivers, patch cables or fiber termination are required; the factory-terminated cable provides a single-cable solution. Monitor link LEDs and system logs to confirm link negotiation and expected speed.

Recommendations

For reliable operation, route the cable to avoid sharp bends and mechanical stress; maintain the minimum bend radius specified by the equipment vendor. Use the 3 m AOC for intra-rack or short inter-rack distances and match port speed and firmware compatibility on switches and NICs. Handle the optical connectors with care and inspect for contamination before insertion.