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Axiom CAB-Q-S-5M-AX 40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 4 10GBASE-CU SFP+ Passive DAC Twinaxial Cable - 5m (16. 4 ft) Arista Compatible
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This DAC cable adheres to the 40GBASE-CR4 and 10GBASE-CU standards, delivering a total bandwidth of 40 Gbit/s that is split into four independent 10 Gbit/s lanes. The QSFP+ end features a single male connector that interfaces with 40GbE ports, while the opposite end terminates in four SFP+ male connectors, each capable of handling 10GbE connections.
The twinaxial cable construction provides enhanced signal integrity and EMI resistance compared to standard copper cables, supporting high-speed data transfer over distances up to 10 meters. The passive architecture means the cable does not require external power or signal conditioning, relying on the host device's electrical interface for operation.
Key Product Advantages
This breakout cable simplifies network architecture by reducing the number of transceivers and fiber strands needed for 40GbE to 10GbE migration. It offers a cost-effective and reliable solution for expanding port density without sacrificing performance.
High-Density Connectivity
Enables a single 40GbE port to support four 10GbE devices, optimizing rack space and switch port utilization in data centers and enterprise networks.
- 1:4 breakout ratio
- Eliminates need for separate transceivers
- Reduces cable clutter
Passive Efficiency
Operates without active components, lowering power draw and minimizing points of failure while maintaining low-latency performance for time-sensitive applications.
- No external power required
- Lower heat generation
- Simplified deployment
Proven Compatibility
Designed and tested for Arista network devices, ensuring reliable interoperability and reducing integration risks in multi-vendor environments.
- Arista validated
- Plug-and-play installation
- Reduced configuration overhead
Deployment / Use Cases
This cable is ideal for scenarios requiring efficient aggregation of 10GbE links into higher-speed 40GbE uplinks. Common applications include connecting top-of-rack switches to aggregation switches, linking servers with 10GbE NICs to 40GbE switch ports, or consolidating multiple network segments into a single high-bandwidth backbone.
In data center environments, it supports spine-leaf architectures by providing cost-effective interconnectivity between leaf switches and spine switches. For enterprise networks, it facilitates server-to-switch connections in virtualized or high-performance computing clusters where bandwidth scalability is critical.
Data Center Interconnect
Use for short-reach connections within a rack or between adjacent racks, supporting high-speed data transfer for storage, virtualization, and cloud workloads.
Network Aggregation
Deploy to consolidate multiple 10GbE links from access switches or servers into a 40GbE uplink, optimizing bandwidth and reducing port counts on core switches.
Highlights
- 40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 4 10GBASE-CU SFP+ breakout cable
- 5-meter (16.4-foot) twinaxial direct attach copper (DAC) construction
- Passive design for low power consumption and minimal latency
- Arista compatible for reliable network device integration
- Supports 40 Gbit/s total bandwidth split into four 10 Gbit/s lanes
- Ideal for high-density data center and enterprise interconnects
- Lifetime limited warranty for long-term reliability assurance
- Plug-and-play installation with no configuration required
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Axiom Memory Solutions |
| Manufacturer Part Number | CAB-Q-S-5M-AX |
| Brand Name | Axiom |
| Product Name | 40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 4 10GBASE-CU SFP+ Passive DAC Arista Compatible 5m |
| Product Type | Network Cable |
| Technical Information | |
| Cable Type | Twinaxial |
| Cable Length | 16.4 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 |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | Lifetime |
FAQ
What is the purpose of this QSFP+ to SFP+ breakout cable?
This cable allows you to connect a single 40GbE QSFP+ port on a switch or device to four separate 10GbE SFP+ ports, effectively breaking out the 40 Gbit/s bandwidth into four 10 Gbit/s channels. It is commonly used to aggregate multiple 10GbE connections into a higher-speed uplink or to connect servers and storage devices with 10GbE interfaces to 40GbE network infrastructure.
What does 'passive' mean for this DAC cable?
A passive direct attach copper (DAC) cable does not contain active electronic components such as signal retimers or amplifiers. It relies solely on the electrical signaling from the host devices, resulting in lower power consumption, reduced heat generation, and typically lower cost compared to active cables. Passive cables are suitable for shorter distances, like this 5-meter cable, where signal integrity can be maintained without additional conditioning.
Is this cable compatible with non-Arista network equipment?
While this cable is specifically tested and validated for Arista network devices, many QSFP+ to SFP+ breakout cables follow industry-standard specifications and may work with other vendors' equipment that supports 40GBASE-CR4 and 10GBASE-CU standards. However, compatibility is not guaranteed, and it is recommended to verify with the device manufacturer or conduct testing in your specific environment before deployment.
What is the maximum distance supported by this twinaxial cable?
This cable is designed for short-reach applications and supports a maximum length of 5 meters (16.4 feet). Twinaxial cables like this one are typically used for distances up to 10 meters, but performance can vary based on environmental factors and device capabilities. For longer distances, active optical cables (AOCs) or fiber optic transceivers with appropriate cabling would be more suitable.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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