AOC CBO QSFP28 Active Optical Cable AOC-Q-Q-100G-5M-BO 5 m, 100 Gbit/s

The AOC CBO QSFP28 Active Optical Cable AOC-Q-Q-100G-5M-BO is a pre-terminated QSFP28 direct-attach link that delivers 100 Gbit/s over a 5 m duplex fiber connection. Developed for high-density network environments, this BlueOptics-branded AOC provides a compact, lightweight alternative to copper DACs for short-reach interconnects. It is compatible with QSFP28 ports on switches, servers and storage systems and supports multi-lane 100G transmission with low latency and reduced power consumption.

Advantages

The active optical design reduces weight and electromagnetic interference compared with equivalent copper assemblies while maintaining 100 Gbit/s bandwidth. A 5 m length enables flexible rack-to-rack or shelf-to-shelf cabling inside data centres without the complexity of field-terminated fiber. The QSFP28 form factor ensures a standardized plug-and-play connection that simplifies port deployment and hot-swap replacement.

Suitable for

• Short-reach connections between QSFP28-equipped switches and routers
• Server-to-switch uplinks in high-density racks
• Interconnects between storage arrays and compute nodes
• Top-of-rack and middle-of-row cabling within data centres

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Data rate: 100 Gbit/s aggregate
• Length: 5 m duplex optical cable
• Cable type: active optical cable (AOC)
• Optical interface: multi-lane 25G per lane typical for QSFP28
• Latency: low-latency design suitable for high-performance networks
• Power: lower power consumption compared with equivalent copper DACs
• Operating environment: designed for data centre and enterprise network use

How to use

Insert each QSFP28 connector into the corresponding QSFP28 port on your devices until the latch clicks into place. Ensure both ends are properly seated and that connected equipment is configured for 100 Gbit/s operation if required. The cable is hot-pluggable; connect or remove it while systems are running following your organisation's change-control and electrostatic discharge (ESD) best practices. Avoid tight bends near the connector and route the cable to prevent strain on the plugs.

Recommendations

For reliable performance, use the AOC within the recommended 5 m range and maintain minimum bend radii specified by the manufacturer. Keep connectors clean and handle the cable by the connector housings when inserting or removing. Validate compatibility with your QSFP28 ports and, if needed, consult switch or server vendor documentation for any firmware or configuration requirements.