sales@foscoconnect.com
(510) 319-9878
Silicon Valley, CA, USA
Overview
The QSFP+ Passive Direct Attach Cable (DAC) Breakout is a high-speed networking interconnect solution designed for 40Gbps data center applications. This cable provides a cost-effective, low-latency link by splitting a 40Gbps QSFP+ port into four 10Gbps SFP+ connections. It is an ideal choice for high-density top-of-rack (ToR) switching, allowing for direct connectivity between high-bandwidth core switches and 10GbE network interface cards or edge switches.
Engineered for reliability in high-performance computing and enterprise storage environments, this passive copper cable assembly features a robust 30AWG construction. Being a passive solution, it requires no external power, which reduces power consumption and heat output within the rack compared to active optical alternatives.
Key Features
-
40Gbps Performance
Optimized for 40GbE data rates, providing consistent signal integrity for demanding network traffic. -
Breakout Configuration
Features a QSFP+ to 4x SFP+ design, allowing seamless integration between 40Gbps and 10Gbps hardware. -
Passive Copper Technology
Operates without external power consumption, lowering total cost of ownership and thermal load in server cabinets. -
MSA Compliant
Built to Multi-Source Agreement standards to ensure interoperability with a wide range of industry-standard networking equipment. -
30AWG Cabling
Utilizes high-quality wire gauge to maintain signal performance over the 5-meter reach. -
Simplified Cabling
Consolidates multiple discrete cables into a single breakout assembly, improving airflow and cable management efficiency.
Applications
- Data Center Interconnects
- Top-of-Rack (ToR) Switching
- High-Performance Computing (HPC) Clusters
- Storage Area Networks (SAN)
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Cable Type | Passive Direct Attach Cable (DAC) |
| Data Rate | 40Gbps (Breakout to 4x 10Gbps) |
| Connector A | QSFP+ |
| Connector B | 4x SFP+ |
| Cable Length | 5 Meters |
| Wire Gauge | 30AWG |
| Standard | MSA Compatible / CR4 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the "Breakout" designation mean?
A breakout cable divides a single high-bandwidth port (40Gbps QSFP+) into four individual lower-bandwidth lanes (4x 10Gbps SFP+), allowing a single switch port to connect to four downstream 10G devices.
Is this cable active or passive?
This is a passive cable. It does not contain active electrical components to boost the signal, which results in lower power consumption and zero heat generation from the cable assembly itself.
Will this work with any switch?
This cable is MSA compliant, meaning it is designed to follow industry standards for QSFP+ and SFP+ connectivity. However, some networking hardware vendors may require specific firmware or coding; verify compatibility with your switch manufacturer if needed.
Can I use this for 56Gbps applications?
No, this cable is specifically rated for 40Gbps (CR4) operation.
What is the maximum supported distance?
This specific model is 5 meters in length.