DAC cable CBO QSFP28-DAC-0.5M 0.5m passive direct attach QSFP28

Passive direct-attach copper cable BlueOptics CBO QSFP28-DAC-0.5M is a 0.5 m twin-axial assembly with QSFP28 connectors, intended for short-reach 100GbE and InfiniBand links. The cable delivers a compact, low-latency physical connection between compatible QSFP28 ports in switches, routers, servers and storage systems without the need for separate optical transceivers. Its passive design reduces power draw and simplifies rack-level cabling while maintaining signal integrity for high-speed data centre interconnects.

Advantages

The passive QSFP28-DAC-0.5M cable provides predictable electrical performance and very low latency due to the direct copper interconnect. Installation is straightforward because the assembly integrates connectors and cable in a single unit, eliminating transceiver handling and compatibility checks. The short length supports neat cable management in dense rack environments and reduces power and cooling requirements compared with active or optical solutions. The cable is suitable for high-density top-of-rack and switch-to-switch connections where link reliability and minimal signal processing are required.

Suitable for

• Short-reach 100 Gigabit Ethernet connections between QSFP28 ports
• InfiniBand HDR/FDR links in compute and storage clusters
• Top-of-rack and switch-to-switch cabling in data centres
• Server-to-switch connections in dense rack deployments

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Cable type: Passive twin-ax copper direct-attach
• Supported data rates: up to 100 Gb/s per link
• Length: 0.5 m
• Typical applications: 100GbE and InfiniBand short-reach links
• Form factor: Compact assembly for high-density racks

How to use

Ensure both ports on the network devices support QSFP28 direct-attach cables and are configured for the intended data rate. With devices powered down or following hot-plug guidance from the equipment vendor, align the QSFP28 connector keying and insert the cable until the latch engages. Verify the physical link and check interface status on the attached devices; adjust port settings if necessary to match link speed and duplex. For removal, depress the connector latch and withdraw the cable straight out to avoid damaging the port.

Recommendations

Use this passive 0.5 m QSFP28 direct-attach cable for reliable short-distance connections inside racks or between adjacent racks. Avoid tight bends near the connector ends and maintain manufacturer-recommended minimum bend radius. Confirm compatibility with equipment vendors for QSFP28 passive assemblies when implementing in mixed-vendor environments.