Axiom QSFP-4SFP10G-CU1M-AX 40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 4 10GBASE-CU SFP+ Passive DAC Cisco Compatible 1m Twinaxial Cable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This DAC cable adheres to the 40GBASE-CR4 and 10GBASE-CU standards, ensuring interoperability with a wide range of network hardware. The QSFP+ connector on one end breaks out into four SFP+ connectors on the other, allowing a single 40 GbE port to connect to four 10 GbE ports, which is useful for aggregation or distribution scenarios in switches and servers.
The twinaxial construction provides robust shielding against electromagnetic interference, critical for maintaining signal integrity at high speeds. Passive design means the cable relies on the host device for signal conditioning, making it a plug-and-play component that requires no configuration or management overhead.
Key Product Advantages
This cable offers several advantages for network deployments, starting with its high-speed capability that supports modern data-intensive applications without bottlenecks. The breakout configuration from QSFP+ to SFP+ provides flexibility in connecting different port types, optimizing existing infrastructure investments.
Reliable Performance
Passive twinaxial design ensures stable 40 Gbit/s throughput with low latency, suitable for critical network links in data centers.
- No external power required
- Minimal signal degradation over short distances
- Robust EMI shielding
Cost-Effective Connectivity
Eliminates the need for separate transceivers and fiber optics, reducing both upfront costs and ongoing maintenance for short-reach connections.
- Lower total cost of ownership
- Simplified inventory management
- Plug-and-play installation
Deployment / Use Cases
This cable is primarily deployed in data center environments where high-density switching and server connectivity are required. It connects top-of-rack switches with QSFP+ ports to servers or storage devices with SFP+ ports, enabling efficient 40 GbE to 10 GbE aggregation.
Common use cases include linking spine and leaf switches in fabric architectures, connecting network appliances for load balancing or security, and providing high-speed interconnects in high-performance computing clusters. Its short length makes it perfect for within-rack cabling, reducing clutter and improving airflow management.
Highlights
- 40 Gbit/s data transfer rate for high-speed network connections
- QSFP+ to 4 SFP+ breakout configuration for flexible port aggregation
- Passive twinaxial DAC cable with no external power required
- 3.3-foot length ideal for short-reach data center applications
- Cisco compatible for broad interoperability with network devices
- Robust EMI shielding ensures reliable signal integrity
- Hot-pluggable connectors support easy installation and maintenance
- Cost-effective alternative to optical transceivers for short distances
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Axiom Memory Solutions |
| Manufacturer Part Number | QSFP-4SFP10G-CU1M-AX |
| Brand Name | Axiom |
| Product Name | 40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 4 10GBASE-CU SFP+ Passive DAC Cisco Compatible 1m |
| Product Type | Network Cable |
| Technical Information | |
| Cable Type | Twinaxial |
| Cable Length | 3.3 ft |
| Connector Type on First End | QSFP+ Network |
| Connector on First End Details | QSFP+ Network |
| Connector Type on Second End | SFP+ Network |
| Connector on Second End Details | SFP+ Network |
| Device Supported | Network Device |
| Data Transfer Rate | 40 Gbit/s |
| Features | Passive |
FAQ
What is the purpose of a QSFP+ to SFP+ breakout cable?
A QSFP+ to SFP+ breakout cable allows a single 40 GbE QSFP+ port to connect to four 10 GbE SFP+ ports, enabling efficient aggregation or distribution of network traffic. This is useful in data centers for linking high-speed switches to multiple servers or devices, optimizing port utilization and reducing the need for additional hardware.
Is this cable compatible with Cisco network equipment?
Yes, this Axiom DAC cable is designed to be compatible with Cisco network devices that support QSFP+ and SFP+ interfaces. It adheres to standard specifications for 40GBASE-CR4 and 10GBASE-CU, ensuring interoperability with a wide range of Cisco switches, routers, and other hardware in enterprise and data center environments.
What does 'passive' mean for a DAC cable?
Passive means the cable does not include active electronics for signal conditioning or retiming; it relies on the host device's transceivers to manage the signal. This results in a simpler, more reliable design with lower power consumption and cost, making it suitable for short-reach applications up to a few meters where signal integrity is maintained without amplification.
What is the maximum distance supported by this twinaxial cable?
This twinaxial cable is designed for short-reach applications, with a length of 3.3 feet (approximately 1 meter). Twinaxial DAC cables typically support distances up to 5-7 meters for 40 Gbit/s speeds, but this specific cable is optimized for within-rack or adjacent-rack connections where minimal signal loss is critical for performance.