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

CBO QSFP28-DAC-5M is a 5 meter direct attach copper (DAC) cable designed for QSFP28 ports, providing a low-latency, short-range physical link for 100G Ethernet. The cable is intended to connect compatible switches, routers and network adapters within racks or between adjacent racks in data centers and server rooms where a fixed copper interconnect is preferred for cost-efficiency and minimal signal conversion. The construction targets reliable 100 gigabit performance over a short distance with the simplicity of a plug-and-play copper solution.

Advantages

The DAC cable provides low power consumption and very low latency compared with optical transceivers and separate fiber cabling. Being a single integrated copper assembly, it eliminates the need for separate transceivers and fiber patch cords, reducing component count and easing installation. The fixed 5 m length supports tidy cable management within server racks and short inter-rack connections while keeping acquisition and operating costs lower than equivalent optical links.

Suitable for

• 100G connections between switches and routers in data center racks
• High-speed links between network interface cards (NICs) and top-of-rack switches
• Short-range aggregation and spine-leaf links in server rooms
• Environments where a cost-effective, reliable copper interconnect is required

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 direct-attach copper
• Length: 5 meters
• Data rate: 100 Gbps
• Cable medium: twinax copper assembly
• Typical use range: short-reach, within or between adjacent racks

How to use

Insert each QSFP28 connector end into the corresponding QSFP28 port on the devices to be connected, ensuring correct orientation and that latches engage. No additional transceivers or patch cords are required. After physical insertion, verify link status on both devices and confirm 100G negotiation or configured link speed. For hot-pluggable systems, follow the host hardware vendor instructions for safe insertion and removal to avoid port stress.

Recommendations

For reliable operation, route the cable to avoid tight bends and mechanical stress; maintain the minimum bend radius specified by the hardware vendor. Use the 5 m length for intra-rack or adjacent-rack links and prefer stranded or secured routing to minimize movement. When replacing or installing in live environments, check compatibility lists of connected equipment and verify link parameters in the management interface.