Mellanox QSFP28 Cable Overview and Specifications

# Mellanox QSFP28 Cable Overview and Specifications

## Introduction to Mellanox QSFP28 Cables

Mellanox QSFP28 cables are high-performance networking solutions designed to meet the demands of modern data centers and high-performance computing environments. These cables utilize the Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable 28 (QSFP28) interface, which supports data rates of up to 100Gbps per port.

## Key Features of Mellanox QSFP28 Cables

Mellanox QSFP28 cables offer several advantages for high-speed networking:

• High bandwidth: Supports 100Gbps data transfer rates
• Low latency: Optimized for high-performance computing applications
• Energy efficient: Consumes less power compared to alternative solutions
• Flexible connectivity: Available in various lengths and configurations
• Reliable performance: Designed for mission-critical applications

## Technical Specifications

Physical Characteristics

The Mellanox QSFP28 cables feature:

• Connector type: QSFP28
• Cable types: Direct Attach Copper (DAC) or Active Optical Cable (AOC)
• Length options: Typically ranging from 1m to 5m for DAC, longer for AOC
• Operating temperature: 0°C to 70°C

Performance Specifications

## Compatibility and Applications

Compatible Devices

Mellanox QSFP28 cables are designed to work with:

• Mellanox ConnectX-5 and ConnectX-6 adapters
• Mellanox Spectrum and Quantum switches
• Other QSFP28-compatible networking equipment

Common Applications

These cables are ideal for:

• High-performance computing clusters
• Cloud data center interconnects
• Storage area networks
• Machine learning infrastructure
• Financial trading networks

## Choosing the Right QSFP28 Cable

When selecting a Mellanox QSFP28 cable, consider:

1. Distance requirements: DAC for short distances, AOC for longer runs
2. Environment: Temperature and electromagnetic conditions
3. Budget: Passive DAC is most cost-effective for short distances
4. Future scalability: Ensure compatibility with planned upgrades

## Conclusion

Mellanox QSFP28 cables provide a reliable, high