Active Optical Cable CBO SFP28-AOC-5M 5 m SFP28 direct-attach cable for 25Gbps links

The Active Optical Cable CBO SFP28-AOC-5M is a 5-meter SFP28 direct-attach cable designed for 25Gbps links. It provides a fixed-length optical connection between compatible SFP28 ports on switches, network interface cards (NICs) and servers. By using optical fibers and active transceivers integrated into the cable ends, this AOC reduces signal loss and electromagnetic interference compared with equivalent copper direct-attach solutions while maintaining low latency for short-reach data center links.

Advantages

This 5 m Active Optical Cable delivers reliable 25Gbps throughput with low insertion loss and high signal integrity across the full cable length. The integrated optical transceivers eliminate separate pluggable modules, simplifying installation and hot-swap replacement. The optical medium reduces sensitivity to EMI and crosstalk and enables consistent performance in dense rack environments. The cable's fixed length removes the need for additional patch panels or module inventory for short-reach uplinks.

Suitable for

• Data center top-of-rack and leaf-spine short-reach interconnects
• 25Gbps server to switch links and uplinks between switches
• High-density switch-to-switch connections where reduced EMI is required
• Environments seeking low-latency, fixed-length optical connections

Key specifications

• Form factor: SFP28 direct-attach active optical cable
• Maximum data rate: 25 Gbps per link
• Cable length: 5 meters
• Medium: multimode optical fiber with active transceivers integrated in each end
• Latency: low, suitable for short-reach links
• Connector type: SFP28 compliant plugs on both ends
• EMI immunity: optical medium reduces electromagnetic interference compared with copper

How to use

Insert each SFP28 connector into the corresponding SFP28 port on your switch, server or NIC until the module latches. Ensure both ends are fully seated and that devices are powered on; the link should negotiate to 25Gbps according to connected equipment capabilities. No separate optics are required. For removal, depress the latch mechanism and pull the cable straight out to avoid stressing the port. Inspect connectors for dust or contamination prior to insertion and keep protective caps when the cable is not in use.

Recommendations

Use this AOC for short-reach, fixed-length 25Gbps links within racks or between adjacent racks. Verify compatibility with device vendor SFP28 port requirements and supported link speeds. Maintain proper bend radius for the cable, avoid tight kinks, and store with protective caps to preserve transceiver endfaces and maintain optimal signal performance.