Mellanox MCP1600-E001E30 100Gb/s QSFP28 Direct Attach Copper Cable

The Mellanox MCP1600-E001E30 is a premium passive Direct Attach Copper (DAC) interconnect cable engineered for 100 Gigabit per second data transmission. This essential network hardware component provides a reliable, low-latency link for high-performance computing and data center environments, acting as a cost-optimal substitute for optical modules over very short distances. Specifically designed for rack-level connectivity, this cable is a fundamental accessory for any high-speed network card setup requiring dependable port-to-port communication.

This model from the proven mq9700 family offers a 1-meter reach utilizing high-quality 30 American Wire Gauge (AWG) conductors. It is optimized for InfiniBand EDR protocol stacks, guaranteeing maximum data integrity and throughput while operating at exceptionally low power. Engineered for immediate deployment, this solution undergoes stringent validation to ensure performance and durability right from installation, making it a trusted choice for critical nic card interconnections.

• Ultra-High Bandwidth: Delivers an aggregate bandwidth of 100 Gb/s through four independent 25 Gb/s channels.
• Minimal Power Draw: Passive operation ensures power consumption remains below 0.1 Watt, aiding data center energy efficiency goals.
• Enhanced Safety Design: Constructed with LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) jacket material and Lead-Free, Halogen-Free PCB for improved operational safety.
• Live Insertion Capable: Hot-pluggable design allows for installation and maintenance without disrupting network services.
• Superior Reliability: Achieves a Bit Error Rate (BER) superior to 1x10^-15 in Mellanox ecosystem applications.
• Intelligent Management: Host-readable EEPROM stores vital product information, accessible via the standardized SFF-8636 I²C management interface.

The cable employs a sophisticated passive twin-axial copper technology. It is manufactured in full compliance with critical industry specifications to ensure seamless integration. The hardware meets the SFF-8665 standard for the QSFP28 form factor and connector, while the management interface follows SFF-8636. Furthermore, it conforms to RoHS directives, underscoring its environmental responsibility. This adherence makes the MCP1600-E001E30 a versatile and reliable network card cable solution for modern infrastructure.

As a passive assembly, this DAC cable acts as a direct electrical pathway. It transmits high-speed electrical signals from the transmitter of one QSFP28 port directly to the receiver of another. The four internal differential pairs carry the high-speed data with inherent impedance control. No signal processing occurs within the cable itself; all active equalization and clock recovery are managed by the SerDes circuitry within the connected host adapters or switches. This simplicity is key to its low power profile and high reliability for nic card communication links.

The MCP1600-E001E30 is the ideal solution for creating ultra-short, high-bandwidth links typically found inside a single server rack or between immediately adjacent racks. Its primary use cases include:

• Connecting top-of-rack (ToR) switches to high-density servers in hyper-scale data centers.
• Linking GPU servers or storage nodes within AI, machine learning, and high-performance computing clusters.
• Establishing economical 100G InfiniBand EDR links for financial trading or scientific research platforms.
• Serving as a high-performance network card interconnect for blade servers and converged infrastructure appliances.

• Optimal TCO for Short Links: Provides the full 100G performance of optical solutions at a fraction of the cost for one-meter connections, offering the best value for intra-rack network card links.
• Energy-Sipping Operation: Its passive nature eliminates the need for power-hungry retimers, directly reducing electricity consumption and heat output within the rack, a critical factor for the mq9700 series' appeal.
• Unmatched Deployment Simplicity: Requires no configuration, licensing, or firmware updates. It is a true plug-and-play component that reduces integration time and complexity.
• Space-Saving Form Factor: The slim 30AWG cable diameter (approx. 7.1mm) allows for dense cabling, improving airflow and simplifying management in packed server enclosures compared to bulkier alternatives.
• Trusted Interoperability: Built to exacting industry standards, it ensures reliable performance across a broad spectrum of Mellanox and third-party QSFP28 ports, eliminating compatibility concerns for your nic card infrastructure.

This product is covered by Mellanox's standard 1-year limited warranty, which includes support for repair or replacement of hardware that fails under normal use. We provide reliable global logistics to meet delivery timelines. Expert technical support is available to address any pre- or post-sale inquiries regarding integration and best practices.

• Bending Limits: Adhere to minimum bend radius specifications to maintain signal integrity: 35.5mm for a single bend away from connectors, and 71mm for repeated bends or during installation strain relief.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate and store the cable within the specified temperature (0°C to 70°C) and humidity (5% to 85% non-condensing) ranges to prevent material degradation or performance issues.
• Physical Handling: Avoid crushing, pinching, or applying excessive tensile load. Use appropriate cable guides and ties for support without creating sharp bend points.
• System Compatibility Verification: Prior to deployment, consult your equipment's hardware compatibility list (HCL) to ensure the QSFP28 port supports passive DAC cables of this type for your specific network card or switch model.
• Static Electricity Protection: Always use an ESD wrist strap or touch a grounded chassis before handling the cable connectors to prevent damage to sensitive port electronics.