ADD-ON QSFP28 100GB PDAC 50CM Passive DAC Cable
The ADD-ON QSFP28 100GB PDAC 50CM Passive DAC is engineered for organizations requiring high-speed, cost-effective connectivity in data center and enterprise networking environments. This 100G passive direct-attach copper cable delivers reliable performance for short-reach connections between switches, servers, and storage systems. Built for Cisco-compatible infrastructure, it eliminates the need for expensive transceivers while maintaining full 100 Gbps throughput. Perfect for IT teams upgrading to 100G networks without breaking budgets, this passive DAC cable ensures low-latency, power-efficient data transmission in demanding production environments.
Key Features
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100 Gbps Performance — Full-speed 100G connectivity for high-bandwidth applications
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50cm Passive Design — No power consumption, ideal for short-reach data center deployments
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Cisco Compatible — Works seamlessly with Cisco switches and networking equipment
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QSFP28 Connectors — Industry-standard connectors for universal compatibility
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Copper Construction — Reliable, cost-effective alternative to optical solutions
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Low Latency — Minimal signal delay for real-time applications
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Plug-and-Play Installation — No configuration required, immediate deployment
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
ADD-ON |
| Part Number |
QSFP28-100GB-PDAC0-5MLZ-C-AO |
| Cable Type |
Passive Direct-Attach Copper (DAC) |
| Speed |
100 Gbps |
| Length |
50 cm (0.5 m) |
| Connector Type |
QSFP28 |
| Interface |
Copper |
| Power Consumption |
None (Passive) |
| Compatibility |
Cisco and industry-standard 100G equipment |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to 70°C |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a passive DAC cable and how does it differ from active DAC?
A passive DAC cable uses copper conductors without active electronics, consuming no power while delivering 100 Gbps over short distances (typically up to 5 meters). Active DAC cables include signal conditioning electronics for longer reaches but require power. For 50cm connections, passive DAC is ideal—it's cost-effective, reliable, and requires no additional power infrastructure.
Is this 100G passive DAC cable compatible with my Cisco switch?
Yes, the ADD-ON QSFP28 100GB PDAC is fully compatible with Cisco Nexus switches and other industry-standard 100G equipment featuring QSFP28 ports. It works with Cisco Nexus 3000, 5000, 7000 series and comparable platforms. Always verify your switch supports 100G QSFP28 connectivity before purchase.
What are the main benefits of using a 50cm passive DAC for data center networking?
Passive DAC cables offer significant advantages: zero power consumption reduces cooling costs, lower latency improves application performance, and minimal cost compared to optical transceivers. For short-reach connections between adjacent equipment in racks, a 50cm passive DAC is the optimal choice for high-speed, efficient networking.
Can I use this cable for longer distances or outdoor installations?
No, this 50cm passive DAC is designed for short-reach, indoor data center use only. For distances beyond 5 meters, consider active DAC cables or optical transceivers. Outdoor or long-distance applications require different solutions—consult your network architect for appropriate recommendations.