CBO AOC 20m QSFP28 Active Optical Cable, QSFP28 Male, 100 Gbit/s

The CBO AOC 20m QSFP28 Active Optical Cable is a 20-metre, direct-attach optical interconnect with QSFP28 male connectors supporting up to 100 Gbit/s aggregate data throughput. Intended for high-density data center and enterprise network environments, this BlueOptics AOC provides a fiber-like link without transceivers, delivering low latency and immunity to electromagnetic interference for short- to medium-reach connections between switches, routers and servers.

Advantages

This active optical cable integrates transceiver electronics within the cable assembly to offer a plug-and-play 100 Gbit/s connection with reduced power consumption compared to separate transceivers and optical modules. The QSFP28 male terminations ensure compatibility with QSFP28 ports on modern networking equipment while the optical medium minimises crosstalk and EMI issues typical of copper cabling. The 20 m length supports flexible rack-to-rack or row-to-row deployment without additional patching or modules.

Suitable for

• High-speed server-to-switch interconnects in data centers
• Switch-to-switch or router-to-router links within server rooms
• Top-of-rack and end-of-row fiber-like connections
• Environments requiring low-latency and reduced electromagnetic interference

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 male to QSFP28 male
• Data rate: 100 Gbit/s aggregate
• Length: 20 metres
• Cable type: Active Optical Cable (AOC)
• Latency characteristics: low-latency optical link
• Electromagnetic behaviour: immune to EMI typical of optical links
• Compatibility: QSFP28 ports on switches, routers and servers supporting 100G AOC

How to use

Insert each QSFP28 male connector into the corresponding QSFP28 port on the networking devices until the latch engages. Ensure devices are powered and compatible with 100 Gbit/s QSFP28 AOC modules. No additional transceivers or patch panels are required; the cable presents itself to compliant equipment as a direct 100G link. Route the cable along racks and troughs avoiding sharp bends; respect the manufacturer’s minimum bend radius to maintain signal integrity.

Recommendations

For reliable operation, verify port compatibility and firmware support for AOC links on both ends before deployment. Avoid tight bends or mechanical stress on connector housings, and keep the cable clear of high-temperature sources. Use appropriate static-safe handling when connecting to active equipment and confirm link status LEDs or management interfaces to ensure a stable 100 Gbit/s connection after installation.