CBO AOC-Q-Q-100G-20M-BO active optical cable QSFP28 to QSFP28, 20 m, 100 Gbit/s

Active optical cable CBO AOC-Q-Q-100G-20M-BO is a QSFP28-to-QSFP28 direct-attach solution that provides 100 Gbit/s aggregate bandwidth over a 20 m OM3/OM4-grade optical link. Engineered for high-density data centre environments, this cable replaces multi-fiber transceivers for short-reach interconnects between servers, switches and storage, offering reduced electromagnetic interference and lower latency compared with copper alternatives.

Advantages

The cable delivers full 100 Gbit/s throughput with QSFP28 connectivity while simplifying rack cabling and port management. As an active optical cable, it integrates optical transceivers within the connector housings to maintain signal integrity over 20 m and reduce sensitivity to electrical noise. Its lightweight fiber construction decreases pull tension in dense cable runs and helps maintain cooling efficiency in racks.

Suitable for

• Short-reach interconnects between top-of-rack and leaf switches
• High-speed server-to-switch connections in data centres
• Storage area network links requiring 100 Gbit/s bandwidth
• Backbone aggregation within campus or colocation facilities

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Aggregate data rate: 100 Gbit/s
• Length: 20 metres
• Cable type: active optical cable (AOC)
• Typical reach: short-reach data-centre links (20 m)
• Signal medium: multimode optical fibre compatible with OM3/OM4 infrastructures
• Latency: low-latency optical transmission suitable for high-throughput applications

How to use

Install the cable by inserting each QSFP28 connector into the corresponding QSFP28 port on network switches, servers or storage devices. Ensure both ends are securely latched and that the device firmware supports QSFP28 AOC links. Route the cable through cable management trays to avoid tight bends and minimize stress on the connectors. No external transceiver modules or additional patch panels are required for direct QSFP28-to-QSFP28 connections.

Recommendations

Handle the optical cable by the connector bodies when plugging or unplugging and avoid bending the fibre beyond the manufacturer’s minimum bend radius. Verify device compatibility and port settings before deployment and maintain proper airflow around equipment to preserve performance. For installations in high-density racks, label both ends to simplify maintenance and troubleshooting.