DAC cable CBO QSFP28-DAC-0.5M 0.5m passive copper QSFP28 to QSFP28

CBO QSFP28-DAC-0.5M is a 0.5 m passive copper direct attach cable with QSFP28 connectors at both ends, designed for short-reach interconnects between QSFP28 ports in switches, servers and storage. The cable provides a low-latency, energy-efficient alternative to optical transceivers for short links, enabling high-density rack and top-of-rack deployments where copper connectivity meets distance and performance requirements.

Advantages

The passive copper design eliminates the need for separate optical transceivers, reducing power consumption and simplifying inventory management. With QSFP28-to-QSFP28 connectors and a short 0.5 m length, the cable supports high-throughput, low-latency links suitable for adjacent ports in dense installations. Its factory-terminated construction ensures consistent electrical performance and plug-and-play compatibility with QSFP28-capable network equipment that accepts direct-attach copper assemblies.

Suitable for

• Interconnects between QSFP28 ports in top-of-rack switches and adjacent servers
• High-density rack environments where short copper runs are adequate
• Short-reach links in storage arrays and blade chassis
• Low-latency connections in data centre aggregation and spine/leaf fabrics

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Cable type: Passive copper direct attach cable (DAC)
• Length: 0.5 m
• Data rate: Supports 100 Gigabit Ethernet signaling over QSFP28 interfaces
• Latency: Low electrical latency suitable for short-reach interconnects
• Power: Passive assembly — no additional power required for optical conversion
• Form factor: Factory-terminated, dual-ended QSFP28 modules

How to use

Insert each QSFP28 connector into the matching QSFP28 port on the network switch, server or storage device until the latch engages. Ensure that both ports are QSFP28-capable and configured for the intended 100GbE channel or compatible breakout mode if applicable. No transceiver modules or additional cabling are required; the direct attach cable establishes the electrical link once seated and latched. Check equipment compatibility lists if the host vendor specifies supported direct-attach assemblies.

Recommendations

Use the 0.5 m passive DAC for short, adjacent-port connections inside a rack or between closely mounted devices. Avoid excessive bending near the connector ends and keep the cable within recommended bend radii. For runs beyond short interconnect distances or when optical isolation is required, consider active DACs or optical transceivers with fibre cabling.