CBO QSFP28 cable AOC MFA1A00-C020 20 m — active optical cable for high-speed data links

Active optical cable CBO QSFP28 AOC MFA1A00-C020 20 m is a pre-terminated QSFP28 form-factor optical link designed for high-speed data transmission in network and data centre environments. The 20-metre length provides flexible connectivity between QSFP28 ports on switches, servers and network interface cards while maintaining native high-speed signal integrity. The cable converts electrical QSFP28 signals to optical transmission to reduce electromagnetic interference and support low-latency links over longer distances than direct-attach copper.

Advantages

This BlueOptics AOC offers the bandwidth characteristics expected from QSFP28 connectivity while simplifying installation with a single pre-terminated cable. Its optical construction minimizes crosstalk and electromagnetic noise, and the active components ensure signal conditioning for reliable 100GbE-class links. The fixed 20 m length helps organize cabling in rack and row topologies without the need for additional transceivers or fiber patch panels.

Suitable for

• Connecting QSFP28 ports between switches in data centre aggregation and spine-leaf architectures
• Linking servers and high-performance computing nodes to top-of-rack switches
• Interconnecting network interface cards (NICs) and host adapters with QSFP28 support

Key specifications

• Form factor: QSFP28 optical active cable
• Length: 20 metres
• Data rate capability: designed for 100GbE-class QSFP28 links
• Transmission medium: multimode/mode-optimized active optical fiber
• Latency: low-latency optical transmission suitable for high-throughput applications
• Connector type: QSFP28 plug on both ends for direct port-to-port connection

How to use

Ensure both devices have compatible QSFP28 ports and that any required firmware or driver support for QSFP28 AOC modules is present. Power down or follow hot-plug guidance from equipment vendors before inserting the QSFP28 connectors. Align each QSFP28 plug with the corresponding port and insert until the latch engages. Verify link establishment through device LEDs or management software and monitor link parameters via switch or host diagnostics. Remove the cable by depressing the latch and pulling straight out; avoid bending the optical cable sharply or applying excessive tensile force.

Recommendations

Use the cable in environments within operating temperature limits specified by the equipment vendor, avoid tight bends and compressive loads, and route the cable to prevent strain on ports. For best results in data centre deployments, pair the AOC with compatible QSFP28-capable switches, NICs and adapters and verify link settings after installation.