DAC cable CBO QSFP28-DAC-3M 3 m passive copper QSFP28

Passive copper Direct Attach Cable (DAC) CBO QSFP28-DAC-3M from BlueOptics is a 3 meter, QSFP28-compatible twinax cable designed for short-reach 100GbE connections. The cable provides a direct wired link between QSFP28 ports on switches, routers and servers, delivering low latency and straightforward plug-and-play operation without the need for transceivers or optical modules. Its passive copper construction limits power consumption and keeps overall link cost down, making it appropriate for rack-to-rack and intra-rack interconnects in data center environments.

Advantages

The CBO QSFP28-DAC-3M offers reliable electrical performance for short-distance 100GbE links, with minimal latency and low insertion loss due to its passive twinax design. Installation is simple and requires no additional configuration or optical transceivers, enabling fast deployment and predictable behaviour in compatible networking equipment. The cable’s construction reduces operating power compared with active optical solutions and simplifies inventory management by eliminating separate transceiver modules.

Suitable for

• Short-reach 100 Gigabit Ethernet connections between switches and servers
• Rack-to-rack and intra-rack interconnects in data centers
• High-density patching scenarios where QSFP28 ports are available
• Environments prioritizing low latency and reduced power consumption

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28 compatible twinax cable
• Length: 3 meters
• Media: Passive copper (twinax)
• Nominal data rate: 100 Gigabit Ethernet (short-reach)
• Usage: Direct attach for rack and data center interconnects

How to use

Connect each end of the QSFP28-DAC-3M cable to matching QSFP28 ports on the network devices you intend to link. Ensure both ports support passive DAC connections and that device firmware or operating system recognizes QSFP28 passive cables. No additional configuration or transceiver modules are required; the link typically negotiates automatically. Route the cable to avoid sharp bends and protect it from mechanical strain to maintain signal integrity and reliable operation.

Recommendations

Verify compatibility with your switch, router or server vendor documentation for passive QSFP28 cables before deployment, and place the cable in paths that avoid tight bends or compression. For high-density installations, plan port mapping to simplify replacement and troubleshooting. Use the 3 m length for rack-to-rack or short in-rack connections where passive copper offers cost and power advantages over active optics.