Axiom SP-CABLE-FS-Q281-AX 100GBASE-CR4 QSFP28 Passive DAC Cable - Fortinet Compatible - 1m - 3. 3 ft Twinaxial Network Cable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This QSFP28 DAC cable supports the 100GBASE-CR4 Ethernet standard, delivering full 100 Gbit/s throughput across its twinaxial copper conductors. The cable terminates in QSFP28 network connectors on both ends, providing a direct plug-and-play connection between compatible ports.
The passive construction means no signal regeneration or retiming occurs within the cable itself, making it ideal for distances up to 3 meters where signal attenuation remains manageable. This approach offers significant advantages in power efficiency and reliability compared to active optical or copper alternatives.
Key Product Advantages
This DAC cable delivers several practical benefits for network administrators seeking reliable high-speed interconnects without the complexity of fiber optics.
Cost-Effective 100GbE Connectivity
Provides 100 Gbit/s performance at a lower total cost of ownership compared to active optical cables or separate transceivers with fiber patch cables.
- Eliminates transceiver costs
- No separate fiber cables needed
- Lower power consumption than active solutions
Simplified Deployment
The integrated design with factory-terminated connectors ensures consistent performance and eliminates field termination errors common with separate components.
- Plug-and-play installation
- No polarity configuration required
- Factory tested for reliability
Enhanced Reliability
Passive construction with no active electronics reduces potential failure points, while the lifetime warranty provides long-term peace of mind for critical network links.
- Fewer components to fail
- Lower heat generation
- Lifetime warranty coverage
Deployment / Use Cases
This 100GBASE-CR4 QSFP28 passive DAC cable serves specific roles in modern network architectures where short-reach, high-speed interconnects are required between compatible equipment.
Primary deployment scenarios include top-of-rack switching configurations, spine-leaf architectures within single racks, and inter-switch links in compact network deployments. The 1-meter length makes it ideal for connecting adjacent devices in standard rack configurations.
Data Center Interconnects
Connect switches within the same rack or adjacent racks in data center environments, providing 100 Gbit/s backbone links for server aggregation and distribution layers.
High-Performance Computing
Establish low-latency connections between compute nodes and storage arrays in HPC clusters where 100GbE throughput is required for data-intensive applications.
Highlights
- 100GBASE-CR4 QSFP28 passive DAC cable for 100 Gbit/s network interconnects
- 1-meter (3.3-foot) length ideal for rack-to-rack or intra-rack connections
- Fortinet compatible for seamless integration in Fortinet network environments
- Twinaxial copper construction provides reliable signal transmission
- Passive design reduces power consumption and heat generation
- QSFP28 connectors on both ends for direct device-to-device connectivity
- Supports routers, switches, and network devices with compatible QSFP28 ports
- Lifetime warranty for long-term reliability assurance
- Black color for professional appearance in data center environments
- Plug-and-play installation with no configuration required
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Axiom Memory Solutions |
| Manufacturer Part Number | SP-CABLE-FS-Q281-AX |
| Brand Name | Axiom |
| Product Name | 100GBASE-CR4 QSFP28 Passive DAC Cable Fortinet Compatible 1m |
| Product Type | Network Cable |
| Technical Information | |
| Cable Type | Twinaxial |
| Cable Length | 3.3 ft (1 m) |
| Connector Type on First End | QSFP28 Network |
| Connector on First End Details | 1 x QSFP28 Network |
| Connector Type on Second End | QSFP28 Network |
| Connector on Second End Details | 1 x QSFP28 Network |
| Device Supported | Router,Switch,Network Device |
| Data Transfer Rate | 100 Gbit/s |
| Features | Passive |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Product Color | Black |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | Lifetime |
FAQ
What is the maximum distance this DAC cable supports?
This passive DAC cable is designed for short-reach applications up to 3 meters. The specific 1-meter (3.3-foot) version is optimized for connecting adjacent equipment in rack-mounted configurations where minimal cable length is required. Passive DAC cables typically support distances of 1-5 meters depending on the specific implementation and signal integrity requirements.
Is this cable compatible with non-Fortinet equipment?
While engineered specifically for Fortinet compatibility, this QSFP28 DAC cable may work with other vendors' equipment that supports the 100GBASE-CR4 standard and accepts industry-standard QSFP28 passive DAC cables. However, compatibility should be verified with the specific equipment manufacturer, as some vendors implement proprietary coding or electrical specifications that may affect interoperability.
What is the difference between passive and active DAC cables?
Passive DAC cables like this Axiom model contain only copper conductors with no signal regeneration electronics, making them simpler, more power-efficient, and typically less expensive than active alternatives. Active DAC cables include signal conditioning electronics that extend reach beyond 3-5 meters but consume more power and generate additional heat. For 1-meter connections, passive DAC provides optimal performance without unnecessary complexity.
Can this cable be used for 40GbE connections?
No, this cable is specifically designed for 100GBASE-CR4 operation at 100 Gbit/s. While QSFP28 ports can sometimes accept QSFP+ modules for 40GbE operation through backward compatibility, this cable's electrical design is optimized for 100GbE signaling. For 40GbE applications, you would need a cable specifically designed for 40GBASE-CR4 or similar standards.