Direct Attach Cable (DAC) CBO 10Gbps 5m, Mellanox-compatible MCP2101-X04AB

BlueOptics Direct Attach Cable (DAC) CBO 10Gbps 5m, Mellanox-compatible MCP2101-X04AB is a fixed copper twinax cable assembly that provides a 10 gigabit per second link over a 5-metre distance. Designed for short-range, high-throughput connections, this DAC connects SFP+ ports directly without separate optical transceivers, reducing component count and installation steps. It is intended for rack-level and server-to-switch interconnects where low latency and predictable performance are required.

Advantages

This direct attach cable offers a stable 10Gbps connection with native compatibility for Mellanox SFP+ ports, ensuring plug-and-play interoperability in compatible environments. The fixed copper twinax construction delivers low latency and power-efficient operation compared with optical solutions with separate transceivers. A 5-metre length covers typical top-of-rack and adjacent-rack runs while avoiding signal loss associated with passive cabling at longer distances. The integrated connector design simplifies deployment and reduces the number of field-replaceable parts.

Suitable for

• Top-of-rack switch to server connections
• Server-to-server direct links inside racks
• Short-distance interconnects in data centers and server rooms
• High-throughput links for storage arrays and compute clusters

Key specifications

• Nominal data rate: 10 Gbps per channel
• Cable type: copper twinax (direct attach)
• Connector form factor: SFP+ compatible pluggable ends
• Nominal length: 5 metres
• Latency: low, direct electrical link (passive cable behavior)
• Typical use environment: short-range rack and data center interconnects

How to use

Install the DAC by inserting each SFP+ compatible end into the corresponding SFP+ port on switches, servers or storage devices, ensuring secure seating until the retention latch engages. No separate transceivers or fiber patching is required. After physical installation, verify link status and speed through the host device management interface or operating system network utilities. For predictable performance, use the cable for point-to-point connections within the supported 5-metre range and ensure both ends are compatible with Mellanox SFP+ signaling or devices that accept passive SFP+ DAC modules.

Recommendations

Handle the cable by the connector housings and avoid sharp bends or kinks; maintain the minimum bend radius specified by the manufacturer. Use this DAC for intra-rack and short adjacent-rack links where 10Gbps performance and low latency are required. For longer runs or where optical isolation is needed, consider active optical cables or transceiver-based fiber solutions.