QSFP28 Cables: High-Speed Connectivity for 100G Networks
Wiki Article
With the exponential growth of data traffic in data centers, enterprise networks, and high-performance computing (HPC) environments, high-speed connectivity solutions are crucial. QSFP28 cables have emerged as a key component for 100G Ethernet networks, offering high bandwidth, low latency, and flexible deployment options. Among the most widely used QSFP28 solutions are 100G QSFP28 AOC cables (Active Optical Cables), QSFP28 DAC cables (Direct Attach Copper), and QSFP28 breakout cables. Each type serves unique applications in short-reach, long-reach, or fanout scenarios, enabling efficient, high-density network design.
100G QSFP28 AOC Cable (Кабель QSFP28 AOC 100G)
A 100G QSFP28 Active Optical Cable (AOC) integrates optical transceivers into a single cable assembly, converting electrical signals into optical signals and vice versa. This provides high-speed connectivity over longer distances compared to copper DAC cables.
Key Features of QSFP28 AOC Cables
High-Speed Performance
QSFP28 AOCs support 100G Ethernet and maintain reliable high-bandwidth transmission for demanding applications.Extended Reach
These cables can typically transmit over distances up to 100 meters or more, Кабель QSFP28 AOC 100G depending on fiber type and network configuration.Lightweight and Flexible
Thinner and more flexible than copper DACs, AOCs simplify cable management and reduce rack congestion.Low Power Consumption
Integrated transceivers reduce overall power requirements compared to separate optical modules and fiber cables.
Applications of QSFP28 AOCs
Switch-to-switch connections in data centers
Server-to-switch interconnects requiring extended reach
High-performance computing clusters and cloud infrastructure
Environments needing high-density, long-reach fiber solutions
QSFP28 DAC Cable (Кабель QSFP28 DAC)
A QSFP28 Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cable uses copper conductors to transmit 100G signals. DAC cables can be either passive or active, Кабель QSFP28 DAC providing cost-effective short-range connectivity within racks or adjacent racks.
Key Features of QSFP28 DAC Cables
Short-Reach Performance
DAC cables support 100G Ethernet over short distances, typically 1–7 meters for passive DACs and up to 15 meters for active DACs.Cost-Effective Solution
Copper DAC cables are less expensive than optical solutions, making them ideal for high-density, budget-conscious deployments.Plug-and-Play Installation
Pre-terminated DAC cables do not require additional transceivers, simplifying deployment and reducing installation time.Low Latency
Copper connections minimize signal delay, which is critical for latency-sensitive applications such as financial trading and data-intensive computing.
Applications of QSFP28 DAC Cables
Top-of-Rack (ToR) server connections
Switch-to-switch short-range interconnects
High-density rack deployments where cost efficiency is prioritized
Environments requiring minimal latency and high reliability
QSFP28 Breakout Cable (Кабель QSFP28 Breakout)
A QSFP28 breakout cable splits a single 100G QSFP28 connection into multiple 25G SFP28 lanes. Breakout cables are widely used to connect high-speed uplinks to multiple lower-speed ports without requiring additional transceivers.
Key Features of QSFP28 Breakout Cables
Flexible Fanout Connectivity
A single 100G uplink can be divided into four 25G connections, Кабель QSFP28 Breakout enabling efficient connections to multiple servers or access switches.Full Bandwidth Utilization
Each 25G lane provides full bandwidth, ensuring maximum utilization of the aggregated 100G link.Available in DAC and AOC Versions
Breakout cables can use copper (DAC) for short distances or active optical cable (AOC) for longer distances, providing flexibility in deployment.Simplified High-Density Deployment
Breakout cables reduce the need for multiple adapters and transceivers, saving space and power in high-density racks.
Applications of QSFP28 Breakout Cables
Connecting aggregation switches to multiple 25G servers or access switches
High-performance computing clusters requiring fanout from a single 100G uplink
High-density data center environments where space and power are limited
Simplifying cable management for multi-lane connections
Comparison of QSFP28 Cable Types
Each type addresses different network needs: AOCs for long-reach fiber connections, DACs for cost-efficient short-range connections, and breakout cables for flexible fanout in high-density deployments.
Benefits of Using QSFP28 Cables
High-Speed Networking
Support for 100G Ethernet and compatibility with future 400G networks ensures scalability.Flexible Deployment
With AOCs, DACs, and breakout cables, network engineers can design solutions for short- and long-range, as well as multi-lane fanout applications.Low Latency and Power Consumption
Direct connections reduce signal delay, and AOCs minimize power usage compared to separate optical modules.Scalability
QSFP28 cables allow easy network expansion and upgrades without major infrastructure changes.Efficient Cable Management
High-density cables and breakout solutions reduce clutter and improve airflow in racks and data centers.
Conclusion
QSFP28 cables are critical components for 100G Ethernet networks, offering high-speed, reliable, and scalable connectivity. 100G QSFP28 AOC cables provide long-reach optical connections, QSFP28 DAC cables offer short-range, cost-effective copper links, and QSFP28 breakout cables enable multiple 25G connections from a single 100G uplink. By selecting the appropriate QSFP28 cable type, network engineers can optimize performance, reduce latency, simplify deployment, and ensure scalable, high-density networks capable of handling growing data demands in modern data centers, enterprise networks, and high-performance computing environments.