400G OSFP112 Direct Attach Copper Cable (DAC) – PAM4

The 400G OSFP112 Direct Attach Copper Cable (DAC) is a high-speed copper interconnect designed for 400Gbps short-distance networking applications. Featuring the OSFP112 form factor and PAM4 signaling, it provides a high-bandwidth, low-power connectivity solution for modern data center switches, servers, high-performance computing systems, and other high-density networking equipment.

The cable is engineered with optimized construction to minimize insertion loss and crosstalk, helping maintain signal integrity at 400Gbps. Available in both straight-through and breakout configurations, the OSFP112 DAC provides flexible connectivity for different network architectures while offering customizable cable gauges, EEPROM mapping, and EMI-control options for specific deployment requirements.

• Supports aggregate data rates up to 400Gbps using PAM4 signaling
• OSFP112 form factor for high-density 400G connectivity
• Compatible with IEEE 802.3ck
• Optimized construction for reduced insertion loss and crosstalk
• Pull-to-release slide latch design for easy installation and removal
• Available in 26AWG and 30AWG cable options
• Straight-through and breakout assembly configurations available
• Customized cable braid termination helps reduce EMI radiation
• Customizable EEPROM mapping for cable identification and system compatibility
• 3.3V power supply

• 400G data center switch-to-switch connections
• 400G switch-to-server interconnects
• High-performance computing (HPC) networks
• AI and GPU cluster interconnects
• Data center spine-and-leaf networks
• High-density Ethernet switching
• Top-of-rack and end-of-row connectivity
• Short-distance rack and equipment interconnections

OEM and ODM customization is available for the 400G OSFP112 DAC Series to meet specific networking equipment and deployment requirements. Custom options can include cable length, cable gauge, labeling, connector configuration, EEPROM mapping, and other cable assembly specifications.

For high-volume or specialized deployments, customized cable construction and braid termination can be provided to address specific mechanical, cable-management, and EMI requirements. EEPROM mapping can also be programmed according to customer-defined cable identification and system compatibility requirements.

What is an OSFP112 DAC used for?

An OSFP112 DAC provides a direct electrical connection between compatible 400G networking ports without requiring separate optical transceivers and fiber cables. It is particularly suitable for short-distance connections where low power consumption, simple installation, and cost efficiency are important.

Why is PAM4 used for 400G transmission?

PAM4 allows two bits of information to be carried by each signal symbol, increasing the amount of data transmitted per electrical lane compared with traditional two-level signaling. This makes higher aggregate data rates such as 400Gbps practical within a high-density OSFP112 interface.

What is the difference between the straight and breakout versions?

A straight version provides a direct OSFP112-to-OSFP112 connection for compatible 400G ports. A breakout version divides the high-speed connection into multiple lower-speed connections, allowing a 400G port to interface with equipment supporting an appropriate breakout architecture.

How do 26AWG and 30AWG cables differ?

The cable gauge affects the overall cable diameter, flexibility, mechanical characteristics, and installation density. 30AWG cables are thinner and more flexible, making them useful for high-density cable management, while 26AWG provides a more substantial cable construction. The appropriate gauge depends on the deployment environment and cable length.

Why is EEPROM customization useful?

EEPROM information allows connected equipment to identify the cable and retrieve predefined cable characteristics. Customized EEPROM mapping can help meet specific host-system identification, monitoring, and cable-management requirements.

When is a DAC preferable to an optical solution?

DACs are generally preferred for short-distance links where low cost, low power consumption, and simple point-to-point connectivity are priorities. For longer transmission distances or applications requiring greater flexibility in cable routing and electromagnetic isolation, optical solutions such as AOCs or pluggable transceivers may be more suitable.