Active Optical Cable BlueOptics BO070703W5M QSFP56 200GBASE-SR4 Ethernet/Infiniband, 5 m

The BlueOptics BO070703W5M is an active optical cable (AOC) with QSFP56 connectors designed to deliver 200GBASE-SR4 performance over a 5 metre link. It integrates optical transceivers into a single, factory-terminated assembly to provide high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity for short-reach data centre applications. The cable supports both Ethernet and InfiniBand protocols and is intended for server-to-switch, switch-to-switch and appliance interconnects where reliable 200 Gbit/s links are required.

Advantages

This active optical cable offers plug-and-play installation with factory-integrated optics that remove the need to purchase separate transceiver modules. The QSFP56 form factor ensures compact, high-density deployment in modern racks and switch panels. Optical transmission over the 5 m length reduces susceptibility to electromagnetic interference and supports stable data rates with lower power consumption compared with equivalent electrical copper solutions. The solution is suitable for environments that require deterministic latency and consistent throughput.

Suitable for

• 200 Gbit/s short-reach links within data centres
• Server-to-switch and switch-to-switch connectivity
• High-performance computing clusters using InfiniBand or Ethernet fabrics
• Top-of-rack and aggregation layer interconnects where 5 m reach is sufficient

When it may not be suitable

This AOC is intended for short-reach 200G links and therefore is not suitable for long-distance optical backhaul or campus connections that require single-mode fibre or longer reach transceivers. It may not be compatible with network equipment that enforces vendor-locked transceiver coding or specific firmware-based compatibility checks; verify switch compatibility before deployment.

Key specifications

• Data rate: 200 Gbit/s (200GBASE-SR4)
• Connector type: QSFP56 to QSFP56
• Optical medium: multimode fibre (integrated AOC)
• Maximum length: 5 metres
• Supported protocols: Ethernet and InfiniBand
• Application: short-reach data centre interconnects

How to use

Insert each QSFP56 connector into the corresponding QSFP56 port on your network devices while the devices are powered according to your vendor’s instructions. The integrated optics are factory-terminated, so no additional transceiver installation is required. After seating the connectors, check link status on the devices and confirm the negotiated link speed and lane mapping in the switch or host interface management. Follow standard electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions during handling and avoid sharp bends in the cable to preserve optical performance.

What to consider before purchase

• Confirm QSFP56 port availability and physical compatibility on your devices
• Verify that your switches and hosts accept third-party active optical cables
• Ensure a 5 m reach meets rack-to-rack or server-to-switch distance requirements
• Check that multimode optical connectivity and 200GBASE-SR4 are supported by your network architecture

Usage recommendations

Install the cable in the intended topology where short, high-bandwidth links are required; maintain gentle bend radii, secure the cable to avoid strain on connectors, and confirm link characteristics in device management interfaces after installation.