BlueOptics Q28-AOC-7M-GM-BO InfiniBand fibre optic cable 7m OM3

The BlueOptics Q28-AOC-7M-GM-BO InfiniBand fibre optic cable 7m OM3 is an active optical cable (AOC) with QSFP28 connectors on both ends, designed for high-speed, short-range interconnects in data centre and rack environments. It uses OM3 multimode fibre with a 50 µm core diameter and supports 100GBASE-SR4 Ethernet and InfiniBand-class transmissions. The cable has an LSZH (low smoke, zero halogen) sheath and integrates optical/electrical conversion within the QSFP28 plug housings to deliver optical transmission advantages with hot-pluggable convenience.

Advantages

The active optical construction provides lighter weight, improved flexibility and a smaller bend radius compared with equivalent direct attach twinax solutions. Integrated I/O and O/E converters in each QSFP28 connector enable reliable electrical-to-optical and optical-to-electrical signal conversion without separate transceivers. Compliance with SFF/MSA and IEEE form-factor standards ensures compatibility with equipment that accepts QSFP28 modules. The LSZH jacket reduces toxic gas and smoke emission in the event of a fire, supporting safer installations in enclosed or populated spaces.

Suitable for

• Server-to-switch and switch-to-switch connections within racks
• Inter-rack links between adjacent rack units in data centres
• 100G Ethernet (100GBASE-SR4) and high-speed InfiniBand connections
• Short-reach, high-bandwidth applications requiring low latency

Key specifications

• Cable type: Active Optical Cable (AOC) with integrated transceiver electronics
• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28 (hot-pluggable)
• Fibre type: OM3 multimode fibre
• Core diameter: 50 µm
• Length: 7 metres
• Supported standard: 100GBASE-SR4 Ethernet and compatible InfiniBand speeds
• Sheath material: LSZH (low smoke, zero halogen)
• Form-factor compliance: SFF/MSA and relevant IEEE specifications

How to use

Insert one QSFP28 connector into the QSFP28 port of the first device and the other connector into the corresponding port of the second device until the module latches. No additional transceiver modules or patch cords are required because the cable houses the optical conversion electronics. Ensure that ports are powered down or follow hot-plug guidance from your equipment vendor if connecting under power. Route the cable with gentle bends, respecting its minimum bend radius, and secure it to avoid strain on connectors during operation.

Recommendations

For optimal performance, use the BlueOptics 7m AOC for short-range links inside racks or between adjacent racks, keep bend radius within manufacturer guidelines, avoid tight bundling with high-heat sources, and verify compatibility with your host equipment's QSFP28 ports and firmware. Regularly inspect connector endfaces for contamination and clean according to standard fibre-optic procedures before insertion.