Cisco QSFP-100G-CU0.5M Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 0.5m (2ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to Cisco QSFP-100G-CU0.5M
• 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Fixed length and part number: 0.5m (2ft), QSFP-100G-CU0.5M
• Cable construction: Passive Twinax
• Conductor specification: 30AWG
• Maximum power consumption: ≤0.5W
• Minimum bend radius: 33.5mm

Specifications

Cisco OEM Reference

Cisco classifies the QSFP-100G-CUxM family as 100GBASE-CR4 passive copper direct-attach cable for very short links within racks and between adjacent racks. Its documented family includes 1m, 1.5m, 2m, 2.5m, 3m and 5m part numbers. This HT page covers the exact length and OEM reference shown above; the compatible assembly itself follows the HT specification table.

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 QSFP-100G-CU0.5M; even a short assembly must retain the specified bend radius and should never be pulled tight behind the equipment.

Position Within the Length Range

QSFP-100G-CU0.5M is the shortest of 7 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 QSFP-100G-CU1M 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 33.5mm; the stated power consumption is ≤0.5W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).

Signal and Lane Configuration

The listed modulation format is 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 25G-NRZ. 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.

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is ≤0.5W. 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.

Cable Construction and Routing

This assembly uses 30AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 33.5mm. 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 100G Ethernet. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8662, IEEE 802.3. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

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. Volume orders can include customer references on the labels and carton list.

Cisco 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. Where supported by the host, link stability and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.

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 QSFP-100G-CU0.5M associated with 0.5m (2ft) throughout the order and receiving record.

Shipping and Lead Time

Standard configurations normally ship within one to three working days, while production quantities are confirmed with the order. Delivery can be arranged by courier, air freight or sea freight, and goods may instead be handed to an appointed forwarder or shipped on the customer’s courier account.