AOC fiber direct attach cable CBO QSFP-100G-AOC-5M 100G, 5 m

The AOC fiber direct attach cable CBO QSFP-100G-AOC-5M 100G, 5 m is an active optical cable engineered for short-reach, high-bandwidth interconnects in data center and enterprise networks. The 5-metre QSFP to QSFP AOC provides a 100 Gigabit per second link that connects switches, servers and storage devices with low latency and reduced power consumption compared with equivalent electrical copper assemblies. The plug-and-play QSFP interface supports straightforward installation without additional transceivers or configuration changes, making it suitable for rack-to-rack and within-rack connections.

Advantages

This BlueOptics active optical cable offers high aggregate throughput over a compact cable form factor, enabling dense port deployment and simplified cable management. Optical transmission eliminates signal degradation over short distances and reduces electromagnetic interference, while the active design maintains signal integrity at 100G rates with lower heat dissipation and power draw than copper direct attach alternatives. The QSFP connector provides broad compatibility with networking equipment that supports QSFP form-factor 100G links.

Suitable for

• Rack-to-rack high-speed interconnects in data centers
• Server-to-switch or switch-to-switch connections within the same room
• High-throughput storage system interconnects
• Network equipment setups requiring low latency and reduced power

Key specifications

• Data rate: 100 Gbit/s
• Connector type: QSFP (QSFP-to-QSFP active optical cable)
• Cable type: Active optical cable (AOC)
• Length: 5 metres
• Reach: Short-reach interconnects (within data center or enterprise premises)
• Power and thermal: Lower power consumption and heat compared with equivalent copper DACs

How to use

Install the AOC by inserting each QSFP connector into the corresponding QSFP cages on the devices to be connected. Ensure the devices are powered down or the ports are prepared according to the host equipment vendor’s hot-plug guidelines if required. Once seated, the cable is recognized as a standard 100G QSFP link and typically requires no additional configuration. Verify link status and port statistics in the switch or host management interface to confirm proper operation.

Recommendations

Route and secure the cable to avoid sharp bends; maintain the manufacturer’s minimum bend radius and avoid tight ties that could stress the fiber. Use AOC solutions for short-distance, high-bandwidth connections inside racks or between adjacent racks; for longer spans, consider transceiver plus fiber patching options. Check device compatibility lists for QSFP 100G support and ensure firmware or driver updates recommended by the equipment vendor are applied.