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Axiom 10421-AX 100GBASE-CR4 QSFP28 to 4 SFP28 Passive DAC Twinaxial Cable - 100 Gb/s - 3. 3 ft - Black
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This DAC cable operates at a data transfer rate of 100 Gbit/s, adhering to the 100GBASE-CR4 standard for consistent performance. The QSFP28 connector on one end interfaces with 100GbE ports, while the four SFP28 connectors on the other end provide 25GbE links per port, allowing flexible connectivity to switches, routers, and other network devices.
The twinaxial cable type offers robust electrical performance for short-reach applications, typically up to 10 meters, with this specific model optimized for 3.3-foot runs. Its passive feature means it does not include active electronics for signal amplification, relying instead on the host device's capabilities for reliable operation.
Key Product Advantages
This cable simplifies high-speed network deployments by providing a ready-to-use, plug-and-play solution that eliminates the need for separate transceivers and fiber patch cables. Its passive design reduces power draw and heat generation compared to active cables, contributing to lower operational costs in energy-intensive environments.
High-Density Connectivity
The breakout configuration from one QSFP28 port to four SFP28 ports maximizes port utilization, allowing a single 100GbE port to connect to multiple 25GbE devices without additional hardware.
- Efficient port aggregation
- Reduces switch port requirements
- Simplifies cable management
Reliable Performance
Engineered for stable data transmission, this twinaxial cable minimizes signal loss and electromagnetic interference over its 3.3-foot length, ensuring consistent 100 Gb/s throughput for critical network traffic.
- Low-latency data transfer
- Robust construction
- Compatible with major network platforms
Deployment / Use Cases
Ideal for data center top-of-rack switching, this cable connects 100GbE spine switches to 25GbE leaf switches or servers, supporting modern spine-leaf architectures. It is also suitable for enterprise network cores where high-bandwidth aggregation is required between routers and distribution switches.
Common applications include linking 100GbE QSFP28 ports on network switches to SFP28 ports on storage arrays, high-performance computing clusters, or virtualization hosts. The black color blends with standard rack and cabinet environments, maintaining a professional appearance in server rooms and network closets.
Highlights
- 100 Gb/s data transfer rate for high-speed network connectivity
- QSFP28 to 4 SFP28 breakout configuration for flexible port usage
- Passive twinaxial DAC design for low power consumption and latency
- 3.3-foot cable length optimized for short-reach deployments
- Compatible with network devices, switches, and routers
- Black color for professional integration into network environments
- Plug-and-play installation without additional transceivers
- Supports 100GBASE-CR4 standard for reliable performance
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Axiom Memory Solutions |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 10421-AX |
| Brand Name | Axiom |
| Product Name | 100GBASE-CR4 QSFP28 to 4 SFP28 Passive DAC Extreme Compatible 1m |
| Product Type | Network Cable |
| Technical Information | |
| Cable Type | Twinaxial |
| Cable Length | 3.3 ft |
| Connector Type on First End | QSFP28 Network |
| Connector on First End Details | 1 x QSFP28 Network |
| Connector Type on Second End | SFP28 Network |
| Connector on Second End Details | 4 x SFP28 Network |
| Device Supported | Network Device,Switch,Router |
| Data Transfer Rate | 100 Gbit/s |
| Features | Passive |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Product Color | Black |
FAQ
What is the purpose of a QSFP28 to 4 SFP28 DAC cable?
This cable allows a single 100GbE QSFP28 port to connect to four 25GbE SFP28 ports, enabling breakout configurations that maximize port efficiency. It is commonly used in data centers to aggregate multiple lower-speed links into a higher-speed uplink, reducing the need for additional switch ports and simplifying cable management in high-density environments.
How does a passive DAC differ from an active DAC or AOC?
A passive DAC, like this Axiom cable, relies on the host device's electrical signaling without internal active components, resulting in lower power consumption and cost. Active DACs include signal amplification electronics for longer reaches, while Active Optical Cables (AOCs) use fiber optics and active components for even greater distances. This passive model is ideal for short runs up to 3.3 feet where minimal latency and power savings are priorities.
What devices are compatible with this DAC cable?
This cable is compatible with network devices, switches, and routers that support QSFP28 and SFP28 interfaces. It adheres to the 100GBASE-CR4 standard, ensuring interoperability with equipment from major vendors. For specific compatibility, verify that your devices accept passive twinaxial DACs and support the breakout configuration from one QSFP28 port to four SFP28 ports.
What is the maximum distance supported by this twinaxial cable?
This cable is designed for short-reach applications with a length of 3.3 feet, suitable for connections within a single rack or between adjacent racks. Twinaxial cables typically support distances up to 10 meters, but this specific model is optimized for 3.3-foot runs to ensure reliable 100 Gb/s performance without signal degradation in dense network setups.