AOC SFP28 CBO 20 m passive AOC cable for Lenovo SFP28-AOC-20M

AOC SFP28 CBO 20 m passive AOC cable for Lenovo SFP28-AOC-20M is a 20‑metre passive Active Optical Cable (AOC) designed for use with SFP28 ports. This BlueOptics-compatible assembly provides short-reach optical connectivity between servers, switches and other network devices at 25 Gbps link rates while reducing power draw and eliminating the need for separate transceivers. The cable is intended for structured cabling in data centers, top-of-rack deployments and server-to-switch links where a fixed 20 m passive AOC is required.

Advantages

The passive AOC construction offers low latency and lower power consumption compared with active modules that require electrical-to-optical conversion in the host. As a factory-assembled optical cable it simplifies installation by integrating optical transceivers into a single plug-and-play unit, reducing inventory of separate SFP28 transceivers and patch cables. The standardized SFP28 connector interface ensures compatibility with equipment that supports SFP28 passive AOCs, enabling reliable 25 Gbps links for short-reach connections within racks and across adjacent rack rows.

Suitable for

• Top-of-rack (ToR) switch to server uplinks at 25 Gbps
• Inter-rack connections where a 20 m short-reach link is required
• Data center aggregation and leaf-spine fabrics with SFP28 ports
• High-density server clusters needing low-latency optical links

Key specifications

• Connector type: SFP28 duplex optical interface
• Length: 20 metres
• Data rate support: 25 Gbps per channel (SFP28 standard)
• Cable type: Passive AOC (factory-terminated optical cable with integrated transceiver modules)
• Typical use: Short-reach intra-data center links
• Latency: low, suitable for time-sensitive server connections

How to use

Install the 20 m passive AOC by inserting each SFP28 connector into the corresponding SFP28 port on the two network devices until the latch engages. Ensure both devices support passive AOC modules and are configured for 25 Gbps operation. No separate transceivers, patch panels or duplex fiber jumpers are required; the cable presents a single end-to-end optical link. If link negotiation fails, verify port settings, firmware compatibility and that the host devices allow third‑party passive AOCs.

Recommendations

Route the cable to avoid sharp bends and mechanical stress; maintain minimum bend radius recommended for factory optical assemblies. Use the 20 m passive AOC for short-reach connections inside racks or across adjacent corridors rather than long-haul links. Confirm compatibility with your equipment vendor and, where applicable, enable any port settings required for passive AOC operation to ensure stable 25 Gbps links.