Axiom 40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 4 10GBASE-CU SFP+ Passive DAC Cable
The Axiom QSFP-4SFP10G-CU0-5M-AX is a high-performance 40GBASE-CR4 passive direct attach copper (DAC) cable engineered for data center and enterprise network environments requiring cost-effective 40GbE breakout connectivity. This QSFP+ to 4 SFP+ cable delivers four independent 10GBASE-CU links over a single 0.5-meter passive copper solution, eliminating the need for active electronics while maintaining Cisco compatibility. Ideal for short-reach deployments, this passive DAC breakout cable reduces power consumption, latency, and total cost of ownership compared to active alternatives.
Key Features
- 40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 4x 10GBASE-CU SFP+ breakout configuration
- Passive copper construction — no active electronics required
- 0.5-meter cable length optimized for rack-to-rack connectivity
- Cisco-compatible design for seamless network integration
- Low-latency, low-power passive technology
- Cost-effective alternative to active breakout solutions
- Supports full 40GbE bandwidth distribution across four 10GbE ports
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
Axiom |
| Part Number |
QSFP-4SFP10G-CU0-5M-AX |
| Cable Type |
40GBASE-CR4 QSFP+ to 4x 10GBASE-CU SFP+ |
| Technology |
Passive Direct Attach Copper (DAC) |
| Cable Length |
0.5 meters |
| Connector Type |
QSFP+ (1x) to SFP+ (4x) |
| Data Rate |
40 Gbps aggregate / 10 Gbps per channel |
| Compatibility |
Cisco and standard 40GBASE-CR4 / 10GBASE-CU equipment |
| Power Consumption |
Passive — no power required |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to 70°C |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a QSFP+ to SFP+ passive DAC cable used for?
A QSFP+ to SFP+ passive DAC cable breaks out a single 40GbE QSFP+ port into four 10GbE SFP+ ports, enabling flexible network topology and port density optimization in data centers and enterprise environments without active signal conditioning.
Is this 40GBASE-CR4 cable Cisco compatible?
Yes, the Axiom QSFP-4SFP10G-CU0-5M-AX is fully Cisco compatible and works with Cisco Nexus switches, UCS systems, and other standard 40GBASE-CR4 and 10GBASE-CU equipment.
What are the advantages of passive DAC over active breakout cables?
Passive DAC cables offer lower latency, zero power consumption, reduced heat generation, and significantly lower cost compared to active breakout solutions, making them ideal for short-reach (under 5m) high-speed interconnects.
What is the maximum cable length for this passive copper solution?
This 0.5-meter passive copper DAC is optimized for short-reach connectivity typical in rack-to-rack and switch-to-server deployments. Passive copper technology is generally recommended for distances under 5 meters.