BlueOptics Q28-AOC-25M-QL-BO InfiniBand fibre optic cable 25m OM3

The BlueOptics Q28-AOC-25M-QL-BO InfiniBand fibre optic cable 25m OM3 is an active optical cable (AOC) engineered for short-reach 100G links. It uses OM3 multimode fibre with a 50 µm core and QSFP28 connectors on both ends, integrating optical transceiver modules to convert electrical signals to optical and back. The 25 metre length is suitable for connections within a rack or between adjacent racks. The cable is designed for 100GBASE-SR4 Ethernet and supports high-speed data transmission with lower weight and greater flexibility compared to direct attach twinax (DAC) solutions. The outer sheath is LSZH (low smoke, zero halogen) for reduced smoke and halogen emissions in case of fire.

Advantages

The integrated QSFP28 transceiver connectors comply with SFF/MSA and IEEE guidelines and provide hot-pluggable operation with built-in I/O and O/E conversion. The AOC design yields a smaller bend radius and reduced cable diameter versus DAC, improving routing in dense rack environments. Factory testing of each cable ensures functionality and conformity to industry standards such as CE and RoHS. Use of quality optical and electronic components supports stable signal integrity and consistent 100G performance over the specified 25 m length.

Suitable for

• Connecting network switches, routers and servers within a single rack.
• Inter-rack connections between adjacent racks in data centres.
• High-performance computing clusters requiring 100G InfiniBand or 100GBASE-SR4 links.
• Short-reach optical links where reduced weight and improved flexibility are required.

Key specifications

• Length: 25 metres
• Fibre type: OM3 multimode fibre (50 µm core diameter)
• Connector type: QSFP28 to QSFP28 (hot-pluggable)
• Supported protocol: 100G (100GBASE-SR4 Ethernet, InfiniBand)
• Sheath: LSZH (low smoke, zero halogen)
• Bend radius: smaller bend radius compared to equivalent DAC solutions

How to use

Inspect connectors and ensure both QSFP28 ports on the devices are compatible and powered down if required by your equipment procedure. Align the QSFP28 connector latches and insert the cable until the connector engages; the built-in transceivers will handle electrical/optical conversion automatically. After connection, verify link status via the host devices and perform any diagnostics or speed/negotiation checks as needed. Remove the cable by releasing the latch and pulling straight out to avoid stressing the fibre.

Usage recommendations

Handle the AOC by the connector housings and avoid tight bends. Maintain the recommended minimum bend radius and avoid crushing or kinking the cable. Use in environments and distances intended for OM3 multimode fibre and 100G short-reach applications; do not attempt to splice or modify the active cable.