400G QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD Active Optical Cable (AOC) – 850nm MMF

• Supports aggregate data rates up to 400Gbps
• Up to 53.125Gbps per channel using PAM4 modulation
• Supports 400GAUI-8 electrical interface
• QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD active optical configuration
• Integrated 850nm VCSEL transmitter array
• Integrated photodetector (PD) receiver array
• Multimode fiber (MMF) for short- and medium-distance transmission
• Available in lengths from 1m to 50m
• Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM) function
• Hot-pluggable QSFP-DD form factor
• Single +3.3V power supply
• Designed for high-density data center connectivity
• RoHS 2.0 compliant

• 400G data center switch-to-switch connections
• 400G switch-to-server interconnects
• AI and GPU cluster networking
• High-performance computing (HPC)
• Data center spine-and-leaf architectures
• High-density Ethernet switching
• Server and network adapter connectivity
• Top-of-rack (ToR) and end-of-row networking
• Short- to medium-distance rack and data center interconnects

OEM and ODM services are available for the 400G QSFP-DD AOC Series to support different deployment and system-integration requirements. Custom options can include cable length, labeling, EEPROM configuration, cable identification, packaging, and other assembly requirements.

The cable can be supplied in customer-specified lengths within the supported transmission range. Customized programming and identification information can also be provided for deployments involving specific host equipment or network management requirements.

What is the advantage of using an AOC instead of a 400G DAC?

An AOC converts electrical signals into optical signals inside the integrated cable modules, allowing it to support longer distances than typical passive copper DACs while maintaining a compact cable assembly. It is also generally lighter and more flexible than high-gauge copper cabling at comparable high data rates.

Why does this AOC use 850nm VCSEL technology?

850nm VCSELs are widely used for short-reach multimode optical communication because they provide an effective combination of high-speed performance, low power consumption, and cost efficiency. They are well suited to high-bandwidth data center links using multimode fiber.

What does 400GAUI-8 mean?

400GAUI-8 is an electrical interface that divides the 400G data path across eight electrical lanes. Each lane operates at up to 53.125Gbps using PAM4 signaling, providing the aggregate electrical bandwidth required for a 400G connection.

What is the purpose of DDM in this AOC?

Digital Diagnostic Monitoring allows compatible host equipment to retrieve operating information from the optical assembly. Depending on the implementation, this can include parameters such as module temperature, supply voltage, and other diagnostic information, helping network operators monitor link conditions.

Can the AOC be used between different brands of networking equipment?

The AOC is designed around industry-standard QSFP-DD interfaces and relevant Ethernet electrical requirements. However, actual interoperability can depend on the host equipment’s transceiver and cable recognition policies. For deployment with specific switches or network adapters, compatibility should be verified in advance.

How should the 1–50m cable length be selected?

The cable should be selected according to the physical distance between the connected devices while avoiding unnecessary excess cable. Shorter lengths can simplify cable management, while longer AOCs can provide greater flexibility for connections between racks or equipment located farther apart within the supported 50m range.