DAC cable CBO QSFP28 to 4×SFP28, passive, 3 m

Passive direct attach copper (DAC) cable CBO QSFP28 to 4×SFP28, passive, 3 m by BlueOptics provides a fixed, high-bandwidth electrical connection for short-reach 100GbE to 4×25GbE fanout applications. The assembly integrates a QSFP28 plug on one end and four SFP28 receptacles on the other, supporting multi-lane breakout topologies between switches, routers and servers. With a 3 meter length and passive construction it offers low latency and straightforward deployment without the need for external power or transceivers.

Advantages

This DAC cable delivers reliable, low-latency connectivity with minimal signal processing, making it a cost-effective choice for short-distance aggregation links. The integrated breakout format simplifies cabling between a single 100GbE port and four 25GbE ports, reducing the number of required modules and easing rack-side management. Passive copper construction ensures energy-efficient operation and stable performance in typical data center environments.

Suitable for

• Short-reach 100GbE to 4×25GbE fanout connections in data centers
• Server to top-of-rack or leaf switch interconnects
• High-density aggregation and spine-leaf architectures
• Low-latency links in storage or compute clusters

Key specifications

• Connector types: QSFP28 plug to four SFP28 connectors
• Length: 3 meters
• Cable type: Passive direct attach copper (DAC)
• Supported data rate: 100GbE breakout to 4×25GbE
• Typical use: Short-reach, rack/mid-plane connections
• Latency: Minimal, electrical direct-attach link

How to use

Insert the QSFP28 plug into the 100GbE QSFP28 port on the switch or router and plug each SFP28 connector into the corresponding 25GbE ports on the destination device. Ensure ports are powered down or administratively disabled if required by your hardware vendor’s installation procedure, then enable the ports after physical connection. Verify link status and speed in device management interfaces and adjust port or breakout configuration as needed to match switch firmware and network topology.

Recommendations

Use this passive DAC cable for short-distance connections within racks or between adjacent racks; avoid routing through cable trays with tight bends and keep ambient temperature within the host equipment specifications. Confirm compatibility with switch firmware and port breakout settings before deployment, and inspect connectors for contamination to maintain signal integrity.