Direct Attach Copper (DAC) Cable CBO QSFP28-DAC-2M 2m Passive QSFP28 to QSFP28

CBO QSFP28-DAC-2M is a 2‑meter passive Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cable with QSFP28 to QSFP28 connectors, engineered for short-reach 100GbE interconnects in data centre environments. The cable offers a fixed copper assembly for direct connection between QSFP28 ports on switches, routers and servers, delivering a low-latency and energy-efficient physical link for rack-to-rack or within-rack cabling. Its compact, passive design eliminates the need for separate transceivers while providing a stable electrical interface for high-speed 100 Gigabit Ethernet links.

Advantages

The passive construction results in lower power consumption compared with active optical solutions and removes the need for external power or cooling for the cable itself. The QSFP28 form factor ensures compatibility with equipment that supports QSFP28 electrical interfaces and 100GbE signalling. As a copper direct attach option, it typically provides lower latency and predictable signal characteristics for short distances, while offering cost-effective deployment and simplified inventory management compared with modular transceivers plus fibre patch cords.

Suitable for

• Rack-to-rack 100GbE connections in data centres
• Within-rack high-speed links between servers and top-of-rack switches
• Short-reach aggregation and spine-to-leaf links where passive copper is acceptable
• Environments requiring low-latency, energy-efficient interconnects

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Cable type: Passive Direct Attach Copper (DAC)
• Length: 2 metres
• Supported data rate: 100Gbps (100 Gigabit Ethernet)
• Typical application: Short-reach, within-rack or rack-to-rack links
• Latency profile: Low latency for electrical copper connections
• Construction: Fixed, factory-terminated copper assembly

How to use

Insert each QSFP28 connector into the corresponding QSFP28 port on your network equipment until the latch engages. Ensure that both devices support 100GbE over passive QSFP28 copper DACs and that ports are configured for the intended link speed. Avoid bending the cable beyond its minimum bend radius and route it to prevent strain on the connectors. For proper operation, verify link status and speed via the host devices after connection and perform standard network tests to confirm throughput and error rates.

Recommendations

Use this 2 m passive QSFP28 DAC for short-distance links where cost, power consumption and low latency are priorities. Do not use for distances beyond the recommended short-reach range; for longer runs, consider optical transceivers and fibre cabling. Store the cable in a clean, dry environment and avoid sharp bends or excessive pulling when installing to maintain signal integrity.