StarTech. com QSFPH40GCU1M 40GbE QSFP+ Direct Attach Cable - 1m Passive Twinax Copper DAC for Cisco Compatible
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This direct attach cable operates at a full duplex data transfer rate of 40 Gbps, supporting high-bandwidth applications such as server clustering, network aggregation, and storage area networks. The passive twinaxial construction uses 30 AWG copper conductors with a 100-ohm impedance, ensuring signal integrity over its 1-meter length while minimizing power consumption compared to active optical alternatives.
The cable is terminated with industry-standard QSFP+ male connectors on both ends, conforming to MSA (Multi-Source Agreement) specifications for mechanical and electrical compatibility. The PVC jacket provides durability and flexibility for routing in tight spaces within racks or between adjacent equipment.
This section brings together practical product details such as Cable Type, Cable Length, Connector Type on First End, Color Family, so buyers can judge configuration, deployment fit, and day-to-day suitability with less guesswork.
Key Product Advantages
This DAC offers several distinct advantages for network deployments requiring reliable, high-speed connectivity without the complexity and cost of fiber optics.
Proven Cisco Compatibility
Extensively tested and validated for full interoperability with Cisco QSFP-H40G-CU1M compatible switches, ensuring reliable performance without voiding OEM support agreements.
- Works with C9300, C9200, C9400, C9500, C9600 series
- 100% electrical and mechanical compliance
Simplified Deployment
The integrated QSFP+ connectors eliminate the need for separate transceivers, reducing points of failure and simplifying inventory management compared to fiber-based solutions.
- Pre-terminated ready-to-use design
- Lower latency than optical alternatives
Extended Platform Support
Beyond Cisco ecosystems, this low-power 40GbE DAC works with MSA-compliant switches from Ubiquiti, D-Link, Netgear, Supermicro, TP-Link, and other vendors that accept uncoded modules.
- Broad third-party compatibility
- No special coding required
Deployment / Use Cases
This direct attach cable is ideal for high-density data center environments where short-reach, high-speed interconnects are required between network devices.
Common deployment scenarios include connecting top-of-rack switches to aggregation switches, linking servers to leaf switches in spine-leaf architectures, and interconnecting storage arrays to network fabrics. The 1-meter length is particularly suited for within-rack or adjacent-rack connections where minimal cable management is desired.
Data Center Inter-Rack Connectivity
Connect switches within the same rack or between adjacent racks in high-performance computing and storage environments where 40GbE throughput is required.
Server-to-Switch Aggregation
Link high-performance servers directly to network switches for applications requiring low-latency, high-bandwidth connections such as virtualization clusters and database servers.
Physical Profile
The cable features a black PVC jacket that provides both flexibility for routing and protection against physical wear. With an approximate weight of 72 grams (2.54 ounces), it adds minimal load to cable management systems while maintaining a professional appearance in visible installations.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 2.54 oz (72 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Weight
- 2.54 oz (72 g)
- Length
- 3.3 ft (1 m)
Highlights
- 100% compatible with Cisco QSFP-H40G-CU1M specification
- 40 Gbps data transfer rate over 1-meter passive twinax copper
- Hot-swappable QSFP+ connectors on both ends
- Works with Cisco C9300, C9200, C9400, C9500, C9600 switches
- MSA compliant for broad third-party switch compatibility
- 30 AWG copper conductors with PVC jacket
- RoHS and WEEE compliant for environmental responsibility
- Lifetime warranty backed by StarTech.com support
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | QSFPH40GCU1M |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | Cisco QSFP-H40G-CU1M Compatible - QSFP+ Direct Attach Cable - 1 m (3.3 ft.) |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | Network Cable |
| Technical Information | |
| Cable Type | Twinaxial |
| Cable Length | 3.3 ft (1 m) |
| Connector Type on First End | QSFP+ Network - Male |
| Connector Gender on First End | Male |
| Connector on First End Details | 1 x QSFP+ Network - Male |
| Connector Type on Second End | QSFP+ Network - Male |
| Connector Gender on Second End | Male |
| Connector on Second End Details | 1 x QSFP+ Network - Male |
| Device Supported | Network Device,Server,Switch,Transceiver,Router |
| American Wire Gauge | 30 AWG |
| Data Transfer Rate | 40 Gbit/s |
| Features | Passive,Hot-swappable |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Black |
| Product Color | Black |
| Product Material | Copper |
| Jacket Material | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 2.54 oz (72 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Compatibility | Cisco Switches: C9300 C9200 C9400 C9500 C9600 |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | Lifetime |
User Manual
FAQ
What is the primary compatibility of this QSFP+ Direct Attach Cable?
This cable is 100% compatible with the Cisco QSFP-H40G-CU1M specification and has been tested to work seamlessly with Cisco switches including the C9300, C9200, C9400, C9500, and C9600 series. It provides identical electrical and mechanical performance as the OEM cable without requiring special configuration.
What is the difference between passive and active direct attach cables?
This is a passive twinax cable, meaning it contains only copper conductors without signal amplification electronics. Passive DACs are typically used for shorter distances (up to 5 meters for 40GbE), consume less power, and are more cost-effective than active cables which include signal conditioning for longer reaches.
Can this cable be used with non-Cisco network equipment?
Yes, this low-power 40GbE DAC works with any MSA-compliant switch that accepts uncoded QSFP+ modules. This includes equipment from Ubiquiti, D-Link, Netgear, Supermicro, TP-Link, and other vendors. The cable does not require special platform coding for basic interoperability.
What does 'hot-swappable' mean for this direct attach cable?
Hot-swappable means you can install or remove this cable while the connected network equipment remains powered on and operational. This feature enables maintenance, upgrades, and reconfigurations without requiring network downtime, which is critical in always-on data center environments.
What warranty coverage does StarTech.com provide for this cable?
StarTech.com backs this direct attach cable with a lifetime warranty that covers the cable itself for its entire service life. This warranty does not affect your OEM equipment support agreements. Additionally, StarTech.com provides access to technical advisors for installation and compatibility assistance.
What environmental standards does this cable comply with?
This cable is RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive) compliant. These standards ensure the product meets environmental regulations regarding material restrictions and end-of-life disposal requirements in applicable regions.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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