CBO active optical cable SFP28-AOC-5M-UQ-BO — 5 m SFP28 AOC for 25Gbps connections

CBO active optical cable SFP28-AOC-5M-UQ-BO is a 5-meter active optical cable with SFP28 connectors engineered for 25 Gbps data links. The cable provides a fixed-length optical connection between compatible SFP28 ports on switches, servers or network interface cards, replacing equivalent copper direct-attach cabling and maintaining high signal quality across short-to-medium distances. Designed for data center interconnects, top-of-rack connections and high-speed storage networking, this AOC simplifies cabling while supporting multi-lane 25Gbps links.

Advantages

The active optical cable reduces electromagnetic interference and eliminates the need for transceiver modules at each end, delivering consistent 25 Gbps throughput with low latency and improved signal integrity compared to electrical copper assemblies. Its 5 m fixed length removes the variability of field-terminated fiber and minimizes clutter in rack environments. The SFP28 form-factor ensures compatibility with standard 25Gbps SFP28 ports and allows hot-plug operation for flexible deployment and maintenance.

Suitable for

• Top-of-rack switch to server connections in data centers
• High-performance computing clusters requiring 25Gbps links
• Inter-switch links and spine-leaf architectures
• Storage area network connections and NVMe over Fabrics links

Key specifications

• Connector type: SFP28 on both ends
• Data rate: 25 Gbps per lane (supporting 25Gbps link)
• Length: 5 meters fixed
• Cable type: Active optical cable (AOC)
• Typical application: Short-to-medium distance data center interconnects
• Form factor: Low-profile SFP28 compatible module housing

How to use

Install the cable by inserting each SFP28 connector into the corresponding SFP28 port until it clicks into place; no separate transceivers or patch panels are required. Ensure both ends are connected to compatible 25Gbps SFP28 ports on switches, servers or NICs and verify link activity through the device management interface. For removal, press the latch on the SFP28 housing and gently withdraw the connector, avoiding sharp bends and tension on the fiber.

Recommendations

Store and route the AOC to avoid bends below the manufacturer's minimum bend radius and protect connectors from dust when unused. Use in environments that meet equipment thermal and mechanical specifications, and verify compatibility with host hardware firmware when deploying in multi-vendor networks.