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Axiom CAB-Q-S-4M-AX 40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 4x SFP+ Passive DAC Twinaxial Cable - 4m (13. 1 ft) - Arista Compatible
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This cable implements the 40GBASE-CR4 standard on the QSFP+ end and 10GBASE-CU on the SFP+ ends, providing a complete electrical pathway for high-speed data transmission. The twinaxial construction offers superior signal integrity for distances up to 4 meters without requiring signal regeneration.
The cable features a single QSFP+ male connector that splits to four SFP+ male connectors, enabling efficient port utilization in switch-to-server or switch-to-storage configurations. This breakout capability allows network administrators to maximize existing SFP+ port investments while upgrading to 40GbE backbone connectivity.
Key Product Advantages
This DAC cable delivers several practical benefits for network infrastructure deployment. The passive twinaxial design eliminates the need for external power sources or signal conditioning electronics, reducing points of failure and simplifying cable management.
Cost-Effective Connectivity
Provides a more economical alternative to active optical cables while maintaining performance for short-reach applications within racks and between adjacent cabinets.
- Lower total cost of ownership
- No transceiver modules required
- Reduced power consumption
High-Density Deployment
The 1:4 breakout configuration maximizes port utilization on 40GbE switches, allowing connection to multiple 10GbE devices without requiring additional switch ports.
- Efficient use of QSFP+ ports
- Simplified cable count
- Reduced switch port requirements
Deployment / Use Cases
This cable is specifically designed for Arista-compatible network environments where reliable, high-speed interconnects are required between switching infrastructure and server or storage systems. The 4-meter length accommodates typical rack-to-rack or within-rack connections in data center environments.
Common deployment scenarios include connecting Arista 40GbE switches to servers with 10GbE network interface cards, linking top-of-rack switches to storage arrays, or creating high-speed interconnects between network appliances. The cable's black color blends with standard rack equipment for clean cable management.
Data Center Interconnects
Ideal for connecting 40GbE spine switches to 10GbE leaf switches or servers within the same rack or adjacent cabinets.
- Rack-to-rack connectivity
- Switch-to-server connections
- Storage network links
Network Infrastructure Upgrades
Enables gradual migration from 10GbE to 40GbE networks by utilizing existing SFP+ infrastructure while adding 40GbE backbone capacity.
- Phased network upgrades
- Backward compatibility
- Infrastructure reuse
Highlights
- 40 Gbit/s aggregate bandwidth with 1:4 breakout capability
- Passive twinaxial design requires no external power
- 4-meter (13.1 ft) length for rack-to-rack connections
- QSFP+ to 4x SFP+ connector configuration
- Arista network device compatibility
- Black color for professional installation
- Direct attach copper construction for reliable electrical signaling
- 40GBASE-CR4 and 10GBASE-CU standards compliance
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Axiom Memory Solutions |
| Manufacturer Part Number | CAB-Q-S-4M-AX |
| Brand Name | Axiom |
| Product Name | 40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 4 10GBASE-CU SFP+ Passive DAC Arista Compatible 4m |
| Product Type | Network Cable |
| Technical Information | |
| Cable Type | Twinaxial |
| Cable Length | 13.1 ft |
| Connector Type on First End | QSFP+ Network - Male |
| Connector on First End Details | 1 x QSFP+ Network - Male |
| Connector Type on Second End | SFP+ Network - Male |
| Connector on Second End Details | 4 x SFP+ Network - Male |
| Device Supported | Network Device |
| Data Transfer Rate | 40 Gbit/s |
| Features | Passive |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Product Color | Black |
FAQ
What is the maximum supported distance for this DAC cable?
This passive direct attach copper cable supports reliable data transmission up to 4 meters (approximately 13.1 feet). This distance is optimal for within-rack or adjacent-rack connections in data center environments where electrical signaling remains strong without requiring signal regeneration.
Can this cable be used with non-Arista network equipment?
While specifically tested and verified for Arista compatibility, this 40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 10GBASE-CU SFP+ cable may work with other vendors' equipment that supports the same standards. However, compatibility should be verified with the specific switch or device manufacturer, as some systems may require vendor-specific coding or firmware.
What does 'passive' mean for this DAC cable?
Passive indicates that this direct attach copper cable contains no active electronic components for signal conditioning or regeneration. The twinaxial conductors transmit electrical signals directly between connectors without amplification, resulting in lower power consumption, reduced heat generation, and typically higher reliability compared to active cables that include signal processing electronics.
How does the 1:4 breakout configuration work?
The cable features one QSFP+ connector that splits into four separate SFP+ connectors. This allows a single 40GbE port to connect to four individual 10GbE devices, effectively aggregating bandwidth while maximizing port utilization. The 40 Gbit/s bandwidth is distributed across the four SFP+ connections, with each supporting 10 Gbit/s data rates.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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