Active Optical Cable CBO SFP28-AOC-2M 2 m SFP28 AOC for 25GbE connections

The Active Optical Cable CBO SFP28-AOC-2M is a 2 meter SFP28 AOC engineered for 25GbE connections between compatible SFP28 ports on switches, servers or network interface cards. As a factory-terminated, fixed-length optical link, it delivers low latency and reduced power consumption compared with equivalent copper direct attach cables, while eliminating external transceivers and simplifying short-reach rack and data centre cabling. The cable integrates fiber optics and SFP28 connectors in a single assembly to provide reliable signal integrity and immunity to electromagnetic interference.

Advantages

The 2 m Active Optical Cable offers a compact, plug-and-play connection that reduces rack clutter and cable management overhead. Its active optics design enables lower power use and improved thermal performance compared with passive electrical alternatives for 25GbE links. The fixed-length construction ensures predictable optical loss and performance, and the integrated SFP28 connectors allow direct insertion into standard SFP28 ports without additional modules or adapters.

Suitable for

• Short-reach 25GbE uplinks and switch-to-server connections in data centres
• High-performance compute clusters and storage networks requiring low-latency links
• Top-of-rack and middle-of-row cabling where EMI immunity and tidy routing are required
• Server NICs and blade systems with available SFP28 ports

Key specifications

• Connector type: SFP28 on both ends
• Cable type: active optical cable (AOC) with integrated transceivers
• Nominal length: 2 metres
• Data rate support: 25 Gigabit Ethernet (25GbE)
• Latency: low-latency optical signalling suitable for high-performance applications
• Compatibility: designed for equipment with SFP28 ports supporting 25GbE
• Electromagnetic behaviour: immune to EMI due to optical transmission

How to use

Power down or observe hot-plug guidelines recommended by your hardware vendor, then insert each SFP28 connector into the corresponding SFP28 port until the latch engages. If the connected devices support hot-plugging for SFP28 modules, the cable can be inserted or removed while equipment remains powered, following vendor instructions. Verify link status on both devices and configure network settings (speed, duplex, MTU, VLANs) as required by your network design. Avoid sharp bends or crush loads on the cable; route the assembly using existing cable management to maintain the specified bend radius and prevent stress on the connectors.

Usage recommendations

Use the cable for short, fixed-length connections inside racks and between adjacent racks where 2 m reach is adequate. Maintain manufacturer-recommended bend radius, avoid exposure to liquids and extreme temperatures, and confirm firmware and driver compatibility on switches, NICs and servers for optimal 25GbE operation.