CBO QSFP28 to 4×SFP28 Breakout Cable MCP1600-C003E26N-BL, 3 m, black

The CBO QSFP28 to 4×SFP28 Breakout Cable MCP1600-C003E26N-BL is a 3 m black passive twinax assembly that converts a single QSFP28 port into four independent SFP28 ports. It provides a compact, direct-attach solution for connecting high-density switches, servers and network appliances where QSFP28-to-SFP28 link splitting is required. The cable supports 25 Gbps per lane signaling compatible with SFP28 interfaces and is intended for short-reach, high-bandwidth interconnects in rack and data centre environments.

Advantages

This breakout cable enables port consolidation and flexible link management by turning one QSFP28 interface into four SFP28 endpoints without additional transceivers or active components. The 3 m length balances reach and routing convenience in typical rack deployments while the integrated, single-cable design reduces cable clutter and simplifies provisioning. The passive construction offers low power usage and predictable latency for server uplinks, switch stacking or top-of-rack connectivity.

Suitable for

• Data centre top-of-rack switch to server connections
• Aggregation and uplink consolidation between switches
• High-density server farms requiring multiple 25 Gbps links
• Short-reach interconnects inside racks or between adjacent racks

Key specifications

• Connector conversion: 1×QSFP28 to 4×SFP28
• Length: 3 metres
• Cable type: passive twinax direct attach
• Per-lane data rate: up to 25 Gbps
• Color: black
• Typical use: short-reach, high-bandwidth interconnects in racks and data centres

How to use

Insert the QSFP28 plug into the host QSFP28 port and connect each SFP28 plug to the respective SFP28 ports on target devices. Ensure devices support breakout mode or appropriate port remapping if required by the switch or server firmware. Route the cable to avoid sharp bends and maintain recommended bend radii for twinax assemblies. Verify link status on each SFP28 endpoint after connection and configure network interfaces as needed for 25 Gbps operation or aggregated link setups.

Recommendations

Use the cable within the intended short-reach environment; avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures or mechanical stress. Confirm compatibility with vendor equipment and firmware breakout capabilities before deployment, and label each SFP28 link for easier identification and maintenance in dense cabling scenarios.