BlueOptics XQ+BC0003-XS+-BL InfiniBand/fibre optic cable 3 m QSFP28 4xSFP28 Male/Male

The BlueOptics XQ+BC0003-XS+-BL is a 3 m high-speed Direct Attach Cable (DAC) with a QSFP28 connector on one end and four SFP28 connectors on the other. Designed for short-range, high-bandwidth links in racks and between adjacent racks, this passive twinax copper cable supports 100GBase-CR4 / 4x25GBASE-CR electrical transmission and InfiniBand/fibre optic compatible architectures where DAC copper is accepted. The 26 AWG construction and MSA-compliant design make it suitable for modern switches, routers and storage systems that support QSFP28 to 4xSFP28 connections.

Advantages

The cable provides low latency and low power consumption typical for passive twinax DACs, while its MSA-compliant connectors ensure compatibility with a wide range of hardware platforms. Built from quality components and tested for compatibility, the cable offers reliable signal transfer for up to 100 Gbit/s over the specified 3 m distance. Its simple passive design reduces points of failure and supports cost-effective, energy-efficient installations in data centres and network racks.

Suitable for

• Short-range 100 Gbps links between switches and routers within racks or adjacent racks
• Connecting QSFP28 ports to four 25 G SFP28 ports for server-to-switch or switch-to-switch links
• High-speed Ethernet, FCoE and InfiniBand environments that accept passive DAC copper solutions
• Data centre and lab environments requiring low-latency, low-power interconnects

Key specifications

• Length: 3 metres
• Connector type: QSFP28 (male) to 4 x SFP28 (male)
• Cable type: Passive twinax copper (DAC), 26 AWG
• Supported data rates: up to 100 Gbit/s (4x25G lanes)
• Standards: 100GBase-CR4 / 4x25GBASE-CR electrical transmission; MSA-compliant
• Typical power consumption: passive design with very low power draw

How to use

Install the BlueOptics QSFP28 to 4xSFP28 DAC by inserting the QSFP28 plug into the QSFP28 port and the SFP28 plugs into the corresponding SFP28 ports on your devices. Ensure both devices officially support passive DAC connections and the 100GBase-CR4 / 4x25GBASE-CR transmission mode. Handle connectors by their housings and avoid excessive bending of the cable; maintain the minimum bend radius recommended by the device or rack manufacturer. Verify link status on connected hardware after insertion and monitor traffic and error counters to confirm proper operation.

Recommendations

Use this passive DAC for short, direct electrical interconnects inside racks or between adjacent racks. Confirm device compatibility with QSFP28-to-4xSFP28 passive twinax cables before deployment and perform an initial link test. For runs longer than 3 metres or where optical isolation is required, consider active DACs or fibre optic assemblies.