CBO AOC Alcatel‑Lucent QSFP-H40G-AOC5M-AL active optical cable, QSFP+, 40Gb/s, 5 m

The CBO AOC Alcatel‑Lucent QSFP-H40G-AOC5M-AL active optical cable is a QSFP+ form factor interconnect designed to deliver a 40 Gb/s aggregated data rate over a fixed 5 m optical link. Intended for high-speed connections between compatible QSFP+ ports in switches, servers and storage systems, this active optical cable provides electrical isolation, low power consumption and immunity to electromagnetic interference compared with copper alternatives. The 5 metre optical assembly simplifies connectivity in data centres and network racks where medium-reach connections are required.

Advantages

The active optical construction ensures stable 40 Gb/s performance with reduced signal loss over the 5 m span and lower end-device thermal load thanks to modest power demands. Optical transmission removes susceptibility to electromagnetic interference and ground-loop issues, and the QSFP+ form factor supports easy insertion into QSFP+ ports for plug-and-play replacement of direct-attach copper at similar port densities. The fixed-length cable reduces cable management complexity while maintaining predictable performance for fibre-based short-reach links.

Suitable for

• High-density switch-to-switch connections in data centres
• Server to top-of-rack or end-of-row switch links
• Interconnects between storage arrays and host adapters
• Short- to medium-reach optical links requiring electrical isolation and low EMI

Key specifications

• Form factor: QSFP+
• Aggregated data rate: 40 Gb/s
• Cable type: Active optical cable (AOC)
• Cable length: 5 m (fixed)
• Transmission medium: Multi-channel optical fibres
• Connector interface: QSFP+ plug on both ends
• Power consumption: Low (module-level active optics)
• Operating environment: Designed for data centre and rack-mounted equipment

How to use

Ensure both ends are compatible QSFP+ ports and that connected equipment supports 40 Gb/s QSFP+ AOC modules. With devices powered down or in a recommended hot-plug state per vendor instructions, align the QSFP+ connectors and insert each end until the latch engages. Verify link status through the host device indicators or management interface and monitor for stable link up. For removal, follow the equipment vendor’s hot‑swap or shutdown procedure to avoid port damage.

Recommendations

Route the 5 m cable with gentle bends, avoiding tight radii and excessive strain. Keep the optical modules and port interfaces free of dust and contaminants; use protective caps when the cable is not connected. Confirm firmware and compatibility notes for the exact switch, server or storage model to ensure interoperable link negotiation and power budgeting.