CBO InfiniBand Active Optical Cable QSFP-AOC-5M-SW-BO — 5 m

The CBO InfiniBand Active Optical Cable QSFP-AOC-5M-SW-BO — 5 m is a factory-terminated active optical link designed for short-reach, high-bandwidth connections between QSFP-enabled devices. This 5 metre AOC integrates optical transceivers into the cable ends to deliver low-latency optical transmission without separate pluggable modules, reducing power consumption and saving port space in rack and data centre deployments. It is intended for InfiniBand environments and other systems that support QSFP form-factor optical interfaces.

Advantages

The integrated design eliminates the need for separate transceivers and fiber patching, simplifying installation and reducing points of failure. As an active optical cable, it provides higher signal integrity and longer reliable reach compared with equivalent copper direct-attach solutions, while keeping power draw and heat generation lower than discrete transceivers plus fiber. The fixed 5 m length ensures predictable performance and link budgeting for rack-to-rack or within-rack connections.

Suitable for

• High-performance computing (HPC) clusters requiring low-latency links
• Data centre rack-to-rack interconnects
• Storage area networks (SAN) and high-throughput storage systems
• Switch-to-switch and switch-to-server QSFP connections

Key specifications

• Form factor: QSFP-based active optical cable with integrated transceivers
• Length: 5 metres (fixed)
• Medium: single active optical cable (optical fibres integrated)
• Intended protocol family: InfiniBand and QSFP-compatible applications
• Performance: designed for high-bandwidth, short-reach optical links with low latency
• Power and cooling: lower power consumption compared with discrete transceiver + fiber arrangements

How to use

Install the cable by inserting each QSFP connector into the corresponding QSFP port on the devices. Ensure ports are powered down or that hot-swap procedures recommended by the device vendors are followed to avoid signal disturbances. Verify link status and speed through the host or switch management interface after connection. Avoid sharp bends and maintain the minimum bend radius specified by the manufacturer to preserve optical performance.

Recommendations

Store and route the cable inside racks and cable trays to prevent mechanical strain. Use this 5 m active optical cable for predictable short-reach connections where QSFP interfaces are supported; for longer distances or different interfaces, choose appropriate fiber optics or transceiver combinations.