AOC Active Optical Cable CBO PAN-QSFP28-AOC-5M 5 m – QSFP28 to QSFP28, 100Gbps, 5 meters

The AOC CBO PAN-QSFP28-AOC-5M is a 5-metre active optical cable engineered for direct QSFP28 to QSFP28 connections at 100Gbps. Designed for short-reach links in data centres and enterprise networks, this AOC offers an optical alternative to copper twinax cables, providing lower power consumption and reduced latency for server, switch and storage interconnects. The fixed-length 5 m design simplifies cabling management while supporting 100 Gigabit Ethernet and compatible high-speed protocols over a single QSFP28 port pair.

Advantages

The cable delivers high-bandwidth 100Gbps throughput with inherent optical isolation, reducing electromagnetic interference and improving signal integrity compared with copper solutions. As an active optical assembly, it consumes less power in short-reach scenarios and maintains low latency suitable for performance-sensitive environments. The plug-and-play QSFP28 form factor eliminates the need for separate transceivers and modular fibre patching for direct device-to-device links.

Suitable for

• 100GbE links between switches and routers in data centre racks
• Server-to-switch uplinks and top-of-rack interconnects
• Storage area network connections and SAN fabrics
• High-performance computing clusters and low-latency applications

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Data rate: 100 Gbps aggregate
• Length: 5 metres (fixed)
• Medium: active optical cable (AOC)
• Typical use: short-reach interconnects up to 5 m
• Power profile: low power consumption for short-reach optical links
• Latency: low, suitable for latency-sensitive traffic

How to use

Install the cable by inserting each QSFP28 connector into the corresponding QSFP28 port on your networking devices until the latch engages. No separate transceivers or fibre patch cords are required. Ensure both devices support 100Gbps QSFP28 links and that firmware or driver compatibility is met according to vendor documentation. Route the cable to avoid sharp bends and excessive strain; the fixed 5 m length simplifies planning for rack-to-rack or in-rack connections.

Recommendations

Place the cable in a clean, ventilated environment and avoid tight bends near the connector modules. Verify link status and speed after installation and keep device firmware updated to ensure full compatibility. For best performance, use the AOC for links within the specified 5 m range and pair with QSFP28-capable equipment from the same performance class.