CBO InfiniBand Active Optical Cable QSFP-AOC-5M-SO-BO — QSFP to QSFP, 5 m

CBO InfiniBand Active Optical Cable QSFP-AOC-5M-SO-BO is a 5 m QSFP-to-QSFP active optical link designed for short-reach, high-bandwidth connections in data center environments. The cable converts electrical QSFP signals to optical transmission and back, providing low-latency communication with resistance to electromagnetic interference. It is intended for use between servers, switches and storage in setups where reliable, low-loss optical interconnects are required for InfiniBand fabrics and other high-speed networks.

Advantages

The active optical design delivers consistent signal quality over the full 5 m length while minimizing latency and heat compared with equivalent copper cables. Optical conversion reduces susceptibility to EMI and ground loop issues, improving connection stability in dense rack and multi-cable installations. The QSFP-to-QSFP connectors support native high-speed InfiniBand links and simplify direct device-to-device connections without external transceivers.

Suitable for

• High-performance computing clusters and node interconnects
• Top-of-rack and spine switch connections in data centers
• Storage area network links and SAN aggregation
• Low-latency server-to-server or server-to-switch links

Key specifications

• Interface: QSFP to QSFP active optical connection
• Length: 5 meters
• Transmission medium: multimode optical with active electrical-to-optical conversion
• Optimized for InfiniBand high-speed fabrics with low latency
• EMI resistance due to optical signal path
• Plug-and-play form factor compatible with QSFP ports

How to use

Connect each QSFP connector to the corresponding QSFP port on the devices to be linked, ensuring both ends are fully seated and locked. The cable performs optical conversion internally and requires no external power beyond the host device ports. Verify link status on connected devices and monitor for any port-specific LED indicators to confirm negotiated speeds and lane alignment. For routine maintenance, power down equipment if recommended by the host vendor before unplugging the cable to avoid hot-plug issues.

Recommendations

Use the cable for short-range high-bandwidth links in controlled data center environments. Avoid tight bends near the connector ends and keep the cable within manufacturer bend-radius limits. Maintain clean connector areas and remove dust before insertion to preserve signal integrity. For mixed-vendor infrastructures, confirm QSFP compatibility and supported InfiniBand speeds with the device documentation.