DAC cable CBO QSFP28-DAC-5M 5 m passive QSFP28 direct attach

Passive DAC cable CBO QSFP28-DAC-5M is a 5-meter direct-attach copper cable with QSFP28 connectors engineered for short-range 100G interconnects. It is intended for direct connections between servers, switches and routers in data center racks and top-of-rack deployments where optical transceivers are unnecessary. The cable supports 100 Gigabit Ethernet links with minimal latency and reduced power consumption compared with active optical solutions.

Advantages

The direct-attach copper design provides predictable electrical performance and low latency for high-throughput environments. Being passive, the cable consumes no additional power and eliminates the need for separate transceivers, reducing overall system cost. With a 5 m length, this QSFP28 DAC is suitable for common rack-to-rack and chassis-to-chassis connections while maintaining signal integrity for 100G links.

Suitable for

• Short-range 100GbE connections in data centers
• Direct server-to-switch or switch-to-switch interconnects
• Top-of-rack and middle-of-row wiring
• High-density patching where low power and cost efficiency are required

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Length: 5 m
• Category: Passive direct-attach copper (DAC)
• Supported data rate: 100 Gbit/s
• Typical use: Short-range interconnects within racks and adjacent racks
• Latency: Low (direct copper connection)

How to use

Insert each QSFP28 connector into the corresponding QSFP28 port on the devices to be connected, ensuring the latch engages securely. Verify link status on both devices and confirm negotiated speed is 100GbE. For installations in dense racks, route the cable to avoid sharp bends and excessive compression; maintain the minimum bend radius specified by the manufacturer. No external power or additional transceivers are required for operation.

Recommendations

Use this passive QSFP28 DAC for short-distance connections within a single rack or between adjacent racks up to 5 m. Avoid routing near high-EMI sources and do not exceed recommended bend radius. For longer distances or mixed-vendor compatibility requirements, consider evaluating active optical solutions or transceiver-based links.