CBO Direct Attach Cable QSFP28-DAC-0.5M 0.5 m Passive Copper QSFP28

CBO Direct Attach Cable QSFP28-DAC-0.5M is a 0.5 metre passive copper twin-ax cable engineered for direct QSFP28-to-QSFP28 connections. It provides a fixed short-reach link for 100G-capable ports, enabling low-latency, high-bandwidth interconnects between switches, routers and network interface cards without requiring optical transceivers. The cable is intended for data centre and enterprise rack-level connections where a reliable, plug-and-play copper solution is preferred.

Advantages

The passive copper design eliminates the need for separate transceiver modules, reducing both component cost and power consumption compared with optical options. With its QSFP28 form-factor compatibility, the cable supports 100G signaling and offers predictable electrical performance for short-distance links. The 0.5 m length minimises excess cable slack in dense rack environments and simplifies cabling management. Installation is straightforward: connectors are pre-terminated and ready for immediate use in compatible QSFP28 ports.

Suitable for

• Short-reach 100G links between top-of-rack or leaf switches
• Direct connections between QSFP28-capable network interface cards and switches
• High-density rack cabling in data centres and server rooms
• Use cases where fixed, low-latency copper interconnects are acceptable

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28 passive twin-ax
• Length: 0.5 m
• Data rate support: 100 Gbps (QSFP28-compatible)
• Cable type: Passive copper twin-ax
• Latency: low, suitable for short-reach interconnects
• Installation: plug-and-play, pre-terminated connectors

How to use

Power off or follow hot-swap guidelines of your network equipment if required by the manufacturer. Insert each QSFP28 connector firmly into the corresponding QSFP28 port until the retention latch engages. Verify link status through the host device’s management interface or LED indicators. To disconnect, release the retention latch and pull the connector straight out to avoid damaging the port. No additional configuration is required on the cable itself; any link negotiation or speed settings are handled by connected devices.

Recommendations

Use the cable within the specified environmental limits of your network equipment and avoid tight bends or kinks; maintain proper bend radius as specified by the equipment vendor. For optimal performance, use passive DACs for short links within the same rack or adjacent racks and consider active or optical options for longer distances or when extended reach and flexibility are needed.