NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1660-W00AE30 Compatible 400G QSFP-DD 8 x 50G PAM4 Ethernet Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 0.5m (2ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1660-W00AE30
• 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD
• Fixed length and part number: 0.5m (2ft), MCP1660-W00AE30
• Cable construction: Passive Twinax
• Conductor specification: 30AWG
• Maximum power consumption: 0.1W Per End
• Minimum bend radius: 33mm

Specifications

Signal and Lane Configuration

The listed modulation format is 8x 50Gbps PAM4. Both host interfaces must be configured for the same aggregate rate and lane arrangement. A connector that fits mechanically does not by itself guarantee that the remote port supports this encoding or breakout mode.

Cable Construction and Routing

This assembly uses 30AWG conductors, PET (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 33mm. These mechanical characteristics affect how the cable should be dressed behind the equipment. Avoid sharp edges, excessive ties and repeated tight bends close to the connector boots.

Network and Protocol Considerations

The intended application is 400G Ethernet. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3cd, QSFP-DD MSA, CMIS 4.0. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

Passive Copper Operation

A passive DAC has no separate optical conversion stage. Its low-power, low-latency operation is useful for short equipment links, but the assembly must remain within the length and signaling mode accepted by both hosts.

Length Selection and Installation Planning

The 0.5m (2ft) length is suited to closely aligned ports where excessive slack would obstruct airflow or complicate dressing. Measure the actual port-to-port path before choosing MCP1660-W00AE30; even a short assembly must retain the specified bend radius and should never be pulled tight behind the equipment.

Position Within the Length Range

MCP1660-W00AE30 is the shortest of 6 verified length options in this family. It is the preferred choice when the port positions are close and cable slack must be kept to a minimum. The next option is MCP1660-W001E30 at 1m (3ft), adding 0.5m for a less direct routing path; selecting it unnecessarily would leave more cable to dress.

Rack Layout and Service Access

Plan the managed route before removing the connector protection. The cable should reach both ports without tension while leaving enough space to release the latches and service adjacent interfaces. Support the run through the intended managers, keep the connector boots clear of sharp edges and avoid storing excess length in a tight coil behind warm exhaust air. For this assembly, the listed conductor specification is 30AWG; the minimum bend radius is 33mm; the stated power consumption is 0.1W Per End; the jacket material is PET (OFNR).

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is 0.1W Per End. Include this load in the host-port power and thermal budget, especially in densely populated switches. Maintain front-panel clearance and do not bundle the cable so tightly that it obstructs airflow around the connectors.

Quality Assurance and Packaging

The completed cable is inspected at both ends, functionally tested and coiled with bend-safe slack. Protective packaging keeps the latches and boots from taking impact, while optional project labels can identify the two endpoint locations for easier field service. Standard protective packing is used by default, with project documentation arranged when requested.

NVIDIA/Mellanox Compatibility and Factory Testing

Compatibility is verified as part of a complete installation check: connector inspection, host identification and an operating link. The physical cable is evaluated together with the expected OEM identity, because a connector that fits is not sufficient evidence that the host will accept and operate the assembly correctly. The check includes link stability and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ordering Information

When requesting this assembly, include the exact part number and length together with the destination port types. For a rack installation, a simple port-to-port list helps us keep different lengths separate and allows any requested labels to correspond with the actual installation sequence. Keep MCP1660-W00AE30 associated with 0.5m (2ft) throughout the order and receiving record.

Shipping and Lead Time

Available stock is generally dispatched within one to three working days after order confirmation, with production lead times advised for larger quantities. International express, air cargo and sea freight can be selected according to destination and carton volume; customer courier accounts and nominated forwarders are also accepted.