DAC Cable BlueOptics DAC-Q28-100G-5M-BL QSFP28 5m Male/Male

The BlueOptics DAC-Q28-100G-5M-BL is a 5-metre direct attach copper (DAC) cable with QSFP28 male-to-male connectors designed for short-range 100G links in racks and between adjacent racks. It supports 100GBase-CR4 electrical signaling and is suitable for high-density network environments such as data centers, high-performance computing clusters and storage interconnects. The cable is a passive twinax copper assembly with 26 AWG conductors and follows MSA-compliant QSFP28 mechanical and electrical interfaces for broad platform compatibility.

Advantages

This DAC cable provides a low-latency, low-power and cost-effective solution for 100 Gbps short-reach connections. As a passive twinax assembly, it does not require additional transceivers or external power, reducing total deployment cost and complexity. Its QSFP28-to-QSFP28 male connectors and industry-standard signalling enable easy integration with switches, routers and storage systems that accept QSFP28 passive DACs. The 5 m length balances reach and cable management in rack and adjacent-rack topologies.

Suitable for

• Short-range 100G connections between switches in the same rack or adjacent racks
• High-performance computing clusters and server-to-switch links
• Storage area network interconnects and high-throughput server links
• Environments requiring low latency and low power interconnects

Key specifications

• Connector type: QSFP28 male to QSFP28 male
• Data rate: up to 100 Gbps (100GBase-CR4)
• Cable type: passive twinax copper
• Length: 5 metres
• Wire gauge: 26 AWG
• Compliant with QSFP28 MSA mechanical and electrical profiles
• Typical applications: Ethernet, FCoE, Fibre Channel, InfiniBand (up to 100G)

How to use

Install the cable by inserting each QSFP28 male connector into the corresponding QSFP28 port on your network devices until the connector latch engages. Ensure both connected devices support passive QSFP28 DACs and the 100GBase-CR4 electrical interface. Route the cable to avoid sharp bends and excessive strain; maintain minimum bend radius as specified by the system vendor. The cable is plug-and-play with no additional configuration required at the physical layer beyond verifying link settings on connected equipment.

Usage recommendations

Verify equipment compatibility and firmware requirements before deployment. For optimal signal integrity, use this 5 m passive DAC for connections within racks or between adjacent racks; for longer distances consider active DACs or optical transceivers and fiber. Handle connectors by the housing, keep connector interfaces clean, and avoid kinking or pulling on the cable to maintain performance and service life.