Active Optical InfiniBand Cable CBO QSFP-AOC-20M-EE-BO — QSFP to QSFP, 20 m

Active optical InfiniBand cable CBO QSFP-AOC-20M-EE-BO — QSFP to QSFP, 20 m is a pre-terminated active optical cable designed for direct QSFP-to-QSFP interconnects. It provides a 20-metre low-latency, high-bandwidth link for data center and high-performance computing environments, enabling direct connections between servers, switches and other QSFP-equipped devices without the need for separate transceivers. The cable uses active optical technology to maintain signal integrity over longer distances than copper cables while keeping power consumption and heat generation low.

Advantages

This Active Optical InfiniBand cable delivers consistent high data throughput and low latency suitable for InfiniBand fabric connections. As a pre-terminated QSFP-to-QSFP solution, it eliminates the need to install separate SFP/QSFP transceivers, simplifying deployment and reducing potential points of failure. The optical link supports reliable transmission over the full 20 m length and reduces electromagnetic interference compared with copper alternatives. Compact QSFP connectors and flexible optical cable construction facilitate routing in dense rack environments.

Suitable for

• Server-to-switch high-speed connections in data centers
• Switch-to-switch aggregation and fabric links for HPC clusters
• Compute node interconnects in storage and compute clusters
• Environments requiring a 20-m QSFP optical link where low latency is important

Key specifications

• Cable type: Active optical cable (AOC)
• Connector interfaces: QSFP to QSFP
• Length: 20 metres
• Intended use: InfiniBand high-speed interconnects, data center and HPC
• Performance characteristics: low latency, high bandwidth transmission over optical fiber
• Noise and interference: immune to electromagnetic interference typical for optical links

How to use

Install the cable by inserting each QSFP connector into the corresponding QSFP port on the devices to be connected. Ensure connectors are fully seated and secure according to the host device guidance. Avoid tight bends in the cable; maintain the manufacturer’s recommended bend radius to preserve optical performance. Verify link status and fabric configuration through the connected devices' management interfaces and perform standard diagnostics to confirm end-to-end connectivity.

Recommendations

When deploying the QSFP AOC in dense racks, plan cable routing to minimize stress and prevent sharp bends. Use supported port configurations and driver/firmware versions on connected equipment to ensure compatibility. For best performance in InfiniBand fabrics, monitor link health and temperature and follow vendor guidance for maintenance intervals.