BlueOptics MFA1A00-C005-BO InfiniBand/fibre optic cable 5 m QSFP28 Male/Male

The BlueOptics MFA1A00-C005-BO InfiniBand/fibre optic cable 5 m QSFP28 Male/Male is a 5 metre active optical cable (AOC) with QSFP28 connectors designed for high-speed data transmission in data centers and HPC environments. It implements a QSFP28-to-QSFP28 connection compatible with 100GBASE-SR4 applications, using multimode fiber with integrated transmitter and receiver electronics on each end to transmit optical signals. The cable is intended for use with hardware platforms that support QSFP28 100G AOC modules and is suitable for short-reach 100 Gbps links over multimode fiber.

Advantages

The cable provides a factory-terminated optical connection that eliminates the need for separate transceivers and patch cords, reducing insertion loss and simplifying installation. Built to MSA-compatible QSFP28 AOC specifications, the design integrates optical transmitters and receivers to support simultaneous send and receive channels and includes Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM/DOM) functionality for real-time monitoring of supply voltage, laser bias/current, optical power and temperature where supported by host hardware. The assembled AOC construction reduces susceptibility to electromagnetic interference and offers predictable link characteristics for short-reach 100G applications.

Suitable for

• Interconnects between QSFP28 ports in data center switches and routers
• High-performance computing (HPC) cluster node connections
• Storage system connections requiring 100G short-reach links
• Top-of-rack (ToR) and aggregation layer links up to 5 m

Key specifications

• Length: 5 metres
• Connector type: QSFP28 male to QSFP28 male
• Transmission type: Active Optical Cable (AOC) over multimode fiber
• Maximum supported data rate: 100 Gbps (100GBASE-SR4 applications)
• Support for Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM/DOM) per MSA SFF-8472 where host supports the feature
• Designed for short-reach multimode fiber links

How to use

Plug QSFP28 connectors into compatible QSFP28 ports on networking equipment or server adapters, ensuring the port supports active optical cables and the 100GBASE-SR4 signaling. Verify that the host hardware firmware and drivers allow AOC operation and, if needed, enable or query DDM/DOM information via management tools. Route the cable to avoid sharp bends and mechanical strain; multimode AOCs require appropriate bend radius and secure fastening to prevent damage. No field termination is required.

Recommendations

Confirm device compatibility with QSFP28 AOCs before deployment and check that the host supports DDM/DOM if diagnostics are required. Maintain minimum bend radius and avoid tight ducts or kinking. For high-availability environments, validate links after installation using host diagnostics or test equipment and keep spare tested AOCs available for rapid replacement.