100G QSFP28 to 2×50G QSFP28 Passive DAC Breakout Cable

• 100G QSFP28 to 2×50G QSFP28 breakout configuration
• Supports aggregate data rates up to 100Gbps
• Passive copper architecture with no additional power required
• Compliant with IEEE 802.3bj
• Compliant with SFF-8665
• Designed for short-distance, high-bandwidth connectivity
• Ultra-low crosstalk for improved signal integrity
• Low insertion loss
• BER better than 10⁻¹⁵ under specified test conditions
• Serial numbers printed on both cable ends
• End-to-end system testing for production quality assurance
• Low EMI emission compared with active electrical solutions
• LSZH cable construction
• RoHS compliant
• Cost-effective alternative to optical interconnects for short links

• 100G to 2×50G network connectivity
• Data center network interconnects
• 100G switch-to-50G switch connections
• Top-of-rack (ToR) networking
• Server and network aggregation
• Storage area networks (SAN)
• High-performance computing (HPC)
• Telecommunications infrastructure
• Wireless network infrastructure
• Low-EMI switches, servers, and routers
• Short-distance high-density network connections

OEM and customized 100G QSFP28 to 2×50G QSFP28 DAC breakout cables are available for network equipment manufacturers, system integrators, distributors, and data center projects. Customization options may include cable length, conductor gauge, cable jacket, labeling, serial-number configuration, packaging, and branding.

For larger deployments, customized cable assemblies can be evaluated against the target switch, server, or storage platform. Customers can provide the required length, equipment models, quantity, and network topology to help determine the appropriate breakout configuration.

What does the 100G to 2×50G breakout configuration mean?

The cable uses one QSFP28 connector on the 100G side and two QSFP28 connectors on the breakout side. The single 100G connection is divided into two independent 50G connections, allowing a 100G-capable port to connect with two compatible 50G ports.

Is this cable an active or passive solution?

This is a passive copper DAC. It does not contain optical components or active signal conversion circuitry and does not require a separate power source. This makes it particularly economical for short-distance connections.

Can any 100G QSFP28 port be connected to two 50G QSFP28 ports?

Not automatically. The host switch or network device must support the appropriate 100G breakout mode and configuration. The two 50G ports must also support the required electrical interface and breakout operation. Compatibility should therefore be confirmed with the equipment manufacturer.

What is the advantage of using a breakout DAC instead of two separate cables?

A breakout DAC combines the two 50G connections into one factory-terminated assembly on the 100G side. This can simplify cabling, reduce the number of physical cable runs, and provide a cleaner connection between aggregation and access equipment.

Why are serial numbers provided on both ends?

Serial-number identification supports cable traceability during installation, inventory management, testing, and maintenance. Having identification at both ends also makes it easier to identify the corresponding cable when working in dense network racks.

Is this cable suitable for long-distance connections?

No. Passive copper DACs are intended for short-distance applications. Their primary advantages are low cost, low power consumption, and low EMI rather than extended reach. For longer 100G-to-50G connections, an appropriate optical transceiver and fiber-based solution is generally more suitable.