DAC cable CBO Dell Networking 470-AAWN-BL 3 m QSFP direct attach copper

Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cable CBO Dell Networking 470-AAWN-BL 3 m QSFP direct attach copper is a short-range, high-bandwidth cable designed for direct QSFP-to-QSFP interconnects. It provides a copper-based connection for switches, routers and servers with QSFP ports, delivering low latency and consistent throughput without the need for separate optical transceivers. The 3 m length is suitable for rack-to-rack and intra-rack links in data center environments where cost-effective, energy-efficient connectivity is required.

Advantages

This DAC cable offers stable performance for short-distance high-speed links while minimizing power consumption compared with optical alternatives that require transceivers. Using a direct-attach copper design reduces component count and simplifies installation. The QSFP interface supports aggregated high-throughput connections and maintains low latency, making the cable appropriate for environments that need predictable network behaviour and efficient cable management.

Suitable for

• Rack-to-rack connections in data centers
• Intra-rack switch-to-server links
• High-throughput network segments and spine/leaf architectures
• Short-distance aggregation links where QSFP ports are available

Key specifications

• Interface type: QSFP direct attach copper
• Length: 3 m
• Transmission medium: copper twinax
• Application: short-range, high-bandwidth interconnects
• Designed for low-latency, energy-efficient operation

How to use

Install the DAC cable by aligning the QSFP connectors with the corresponding QSFP ports on each device and inserting until the latch engages. No separate transceivers or fibre patching is required. Ensure connected devices are powered off or follow hot-swap guidelines from the equipment vendor if supported. Verify link status and speed in the device management interface and adjust network configuration as needed for aggregated or single-lane operation.

Recommendations

Use this 3 m QSFP DAC cable for short-range links inside racks or between adjacent racks. Maintain bend radii appropriate for twinax copper cables, avoid excessive tension, and keep the cable away from sources of mechanical stress. Confirm compatibility with your switch or server QSFP port firmware and QSFP port speed settings before deployment to ensure optimal performance.