BlueOptics SFP28 AOC cable compatible with Lenovo 4X97A94008 25GBASE-SR multimode fiber, 3 m

BlueOptics SFP28 AOC cable compatible with Lenovo 4X97A94008 is a pre-terminated short-range active optical cable engineered for 25GBASE-SR multimode fiber links. With SFP28 connectors on both ends and a 3 m length, this AOC provides a compact, low-power solution for high-speed Ethernet and InfiniBand interconnects in data centers, top-of-rack switches and direct server connections. The cable supports 25 Gbit/s link speed and is intended for short-reach multimode environments where low latency and reliable signal integrity are required.

Advantages

This BlueOptics SFP28 AOC offers plug-and-play installation with pre-terminated SFP28 transceivers, eliminating the need for field termination or fiber polishing. The integrated active optics reduce host transceiver power consumption compared with some discrete transceiver+cable assemblies, and the fixed 3 m length helps maintain consistent signal performance and predictable routing in dense rack environments. Compatibility with standard SFP28 slots simplifies upgrades to 25G networks while preserving a small physical footprint.

Suitable for

• Short-reach 25G Ethernet uplinks between servers, top-of-rack switches and aggregation switches
• InfiniBand or low-latency cluster interconnects within rack or adjacent racks
• Data center environments requiring compact, pre-terminated multimode fiber connections
• High-density networking racks where predictable cable management and reduced power draw are important

When it may not be suitable

This AOC is designed specifically for short-range multimode fiber links and is not suitable for long-distance single-mode fiber runs or campus interconnects. It requires devices with SFP28-compatible ports; it will not function in equipment that only supports unrelated connector types or different transceiver form factors. Environments that demand field-repairable or custom-length fiber assemblies may prefer separate transceivers and fiber patch cables.

Key specifications

• Form factor: SFP28 to SFP28 active optical cable
• Link speed: up to 25 Gbit/s
• Optical mode: multimode fiber optimized for short-range 25GBASE-SR
• Length: 3 meters
• Use case: short-reach data center and rack-level interconnects
• Power: low-power active optical design suitable for dense deployments

How to use

Install by inserting the SFP28 connectors into compatible SFP28 ports on the two devices you intend to connect, ensuring the connector latch engages. Route the 3 m cable to avoid tight bends and mechanical strain; maintain the manufacturer’s minimum bend radius for multimode AOC assemblies. Verify link status on both devices and check that 25G operation is negotiated or configured as required. No fiber cleaning or polishing is necessary for pre-terminated AOC ends, but keep connectors capped until installation to prevent contamination.

What to consider before purchase

• Confirm that both endpoints have SFP28-compatible ports and support 25GBASE-SR operation
• Ensure a 3 m fixed-length cable meets your rack layout and cable management needs
• Verify multimode short-range suitability rather than single-mode or long-distance requirements

Usage recommendations

For reliable performance, avoid sharp bends and excessive pulling force, keep connectors capped until use, and confirm firmware or port settings on network equipment to enable 25G link negotiation. Use AOC assemblies like this for intra-rack or adjacent-rack connections where pre-terminated, low-power, high-density cabling simplifies deployment.