DAC cable CBO QSFP28-DAC-5M 5 m passive copper for QSFP28 ports

BlueOptics DAC cable QSFP28-DAC-5M is a 5‑metre passive copper direct-attach cable engineered for QSFP28 ports. It provides a fixed electrical connection for 100GbE links with minimal latency and deterministic signal behavior. The passive design eliminates the need for optical transceivers or external power, simplifying rack-to-rack and switch-to-server cabling in data centre and enterprise environments while maintaining high-speed connectivity over short distances.

Advantages

The cable delivers stable, low-latency performance suitable for high-throughput fabrics and latency-sensitive applications. As a passive copper assembly, it reduces power consumption and component count compared with active cables or separate optics plus DAC assemblies. Its single-piece construction simplifies installation and inventory management, and compatibility with QSFP28 ports ensures straightforward interoperability with devices that support QSFP28 direct-attach connections.

Suitable for

• Short-reach 100GbE interconnects in data centres
• Switch-to-switch and switch-to-server links
• High-density top-of-rack cabling where low latency is required
• Environments preferring passive solutions to reduce power and complexity

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28 compatible direct-attach
• Length: 5 metres
• Cable medium: Passive copper twinax
• Data rate support: Designed for 100 Gigabit Ethernet applications
• Latency: Low fixed-latency electrical connection suitable for latency-sensitive traffic
• Installation: Hot-pluggable, single-assembly connection

How to use

Ensure both devices have QSFP28 ports that support passive direct-attach copper cables. With devices powered and ports accessible, align each QSFP28 connector and insert fully until the latch engages. Confirm link status through device LEDs or management interfaces and monitor for expected data rates. To remove, press the connector latch and pull straight out, avoiding excessive bending of the cable near the connector. Follow equipment vendor guidelines for ESD protection and handling of copper assemblies.

Recommendations

Use this 5 m passive DAC cable for short, high-bandwidth connections inside racks or between adjacent racks. Avoid routing the cable near high-power or high-interference sources and maintain bend radii recommended by the equipment vendor. For longer runs or when active signal conditioning is required, consider optical transceivers or active copper solutions.