BlueOptics Q28-AOC-25M-VA-BO InfiniBand fibre optic cable 25m OM3

The BlueOptics Q28-AOC-25M-VA-BO InfiniBand fibre optic cable 25m OM3 is an active optical cable (AOC) with QSFP28 to QSFP28 connectors designed for 100G high-speed short-reach links. Built with OM3 multimode fibre (50 µm core) and a 25 meter length, this cable converts electrical signals to optical and back via integrated transceiver modules in each connector, enabling reliable connections within racks or between adjacent racks in data centres and high-performance computing environments. The cable sheath is low-smoke, zero-halogen (LSZH) for reduced toxic fume emission in case of fire.

Advantages

The active optical design provides lower weight, improved flexibility and a smaller bend radius compared with direct-attach twinax solutions, while maintaining hot-pluggable QSFP28 connectivity. Integrated I/O and O/E converters inside the QSFP28 ends allow native 100GBASE-SR4 operation without separate transceivers. Manufactured to MSA, SFF and IEEE guidelines and tested before shipment, this cable is intended to meet industrial standards for interoperability and performance.

Suitable for

• 100GBASE-SR4 short-reach links within racks
• Connections between adjacent server or network equipment racks
• High-performance computing clusters and InfiniBand environments
• Data centre uplinks and switch-to-switch connections requiring OM3 multimode fibre

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28 (hot-pluggable, integrated transceivers)
• Length: 25 meters
• Fibre type: OM3 multimode fibre, 50 µm core diameter
• Data rate: designed for 100 Gbps (100GBASE-SR4)
• Sheath: LSZH (low smoke, zero halogen) flame-resistant outer jacket
• Bend radius: reduced bend radius compared with typical DAC cables (improved flexibility)
• Compliance: manufactured and tested to common MSA, SFF and IEEE guidelines and industry safety norms

How to use

Insert each QSFP28 connector into the corresponding QSFP28 port on network switches, host adapters or other QSFP28-capable equipment until the module latches. The built-in optical transceivers handle signal conversion automatically; no separate SFP/QSFP transceivers are required. Ensure ports are powered down if recommended by the equipment vendor before insertion or removal to avoid signal or hardware issues, and observe standard ESD precautions when handling the cable connectors.

Recommendations

Route the cable to avoid sharp bends and maintain the indicated minimum bend radius. Use the 25m OM3 AOC for short to medium reach 100G links inside racks or between adjacent racks; verify compatibility with QSFP28 ports and 100GBASE-SR4 operation on your equipment. Store connectors with protective caps when not in use and perform visual inspection for contamination before installation.