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

The BlueOptics Q28-AOC-7M-MT-BO InfiniBand fibre optic cable 7m OM3 is an active optical cable (AOC) with QSFP28 connectors on both ends, engineered for short-distance high-speed data links in racks and between adjacent racks. It uses OM3 multimode fibre with a 50 µm core diameter and integrates optical transceiver electronics in each connector to convert electrical signals to optical and back. The cable is intended for 100GBASE-SR4 Ethernet and InfiniBand environments where reduced weight, improved flexibility and a small bend radius are required compared to direct attach twinax solutions.

Advantages

The integrated I/O and O/E converters in the QSFP28 connectors provide reliable signal conversion and hot-pluggable operation without separate transceivers. The OM3 multimode fibre and active transceiver design enable consistent 100 Gbps performance over the specified 7 m length. The cable’s LSZH (low smoke zero halogen) sheath reduces smoke and toxic gas emission in case of fire and meets common safety requirements. Compared to passive twinax alternatives, this AOC offers lower weight, greater flexibility and a smaller bend radius while complying with SFF/MSA and IEEE specifications.

Suitable for

• Short-reach 100GBASE-SR4 Ethernet links within server racks
• InfiniBand high-performance computing interconnects between adjacent racks
• Data centre patching and equipment interconnect where QSFP28 ports are available
• Environments requiring LSZH cabling and reduced electromagnetic interference

Key specifications

• Cable type: Active Optical Cable (AOC) with QSFP28 to QSFP28 connectors
• Length: 7 meters
• Fibre type: OM3 multimode fibre
• Core diameter: 50 µm multimode
• Supported protocol: 100GBASE-SR4 Ethernet and InfiniBand high-speed links
• Sheathing: LSZH (low smoke, zero halogen) flame resistant jacket
• Connector features: Hot-pluggable transceiver modules with built-in O/E and E/O conversion
• Mechanical: reduced bend radius and smaller diameter compared with twinax DAC

How to use

Install the QSFP28 connectors into compatible QSFP28 ports on switches, routers or host adapters until they click into place. Ensure both ends are fully seated and that the cable routing avoids sharp bends below the recommended bend radius. The active optics are hot-pluggable; the connected devices will negotiate link parameters automatically according to the supported protocols. No additional external power or separate transceivers are required beyond the connected equipment.

Recommendations

Handle the cable by the connector housings and avoid excessive pulling on the fibre jacket. Maintain the LSZH sheath integrity and follow rack cable management practices to prevent tight loops or kinks. Verify that connected equipment supports QSFP28 AOC modules and 100GBASE-SR4 or InfiniBand link modes before deployment.