Dell AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M Compatible 400G QSFP-DD 8 x 50G PAM4 Active Electrical Cable, 5m (16ft)
The AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M compatible assembly is intended for Dell equipment that requires a 400G direct-attached connection. This version is specifically 5m (16ft), with QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD and its own order reference. Exact length pages and equivalent brand references are linked to make multi-product procurement easier to verify.
OEM Part Number: AEC-Q56DD-400G-5MHT Part Number: AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Dell AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M
- 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M
- Cable construction: Active DAC (AEC)
- Conductor specification: 28AWG
- Maximum power consumption: 10W Per End
- Minimum bend radius: 53mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M |
|---|---|
| Dell Compatible | AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD |
| Max. Data Rate | 400Gbps |
| Media | Copper |
| Cable Type | Active DAC (AEC) |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 53mm |
| Wire AWG | 28AWG |
| Cable Length | 5m (16ft) |
| Jacket Material | PET |
| Max. Power Consumption | 10W Per End |
| Modulation Format | 8x 50G-PAM4 |
| DDM/DOM | Supported |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | QSFP-DD MSA, IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 8x 50G-PAM4. Both host interfaces must be configured for the same aggregate rate and lane arrangement. A connector that fits mechanically does not by itself guarantee that the remote port supports this encoding or breakout mode.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
The 5m (16ft) length gives AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M more freedom for adjacent-rack and row-end deployments. Longer copper runs need particular attention to routing weight and bend control; the AEC specification and host support must still match the intended link.
Position Within the Length Range
AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M is the longest of 4 verified length options in this family. Compared with AEC-Q56DD-400G-3M at 3m (10ft), it provides 2m of additional reach for a longer vertical drop, a wider rack or an adjacent-cabinet route. Confirm that the complete path requires this length, because unused slack still needs supported, bend-safe storage.
Procurement and Port-Mapping Review
A useful purchase order should identify the host platform, the expected OEM code and the exact cable length as separate pieces of information. This prevents a physically similar assembly from being substituted when the port identification or reach is different. For mixed-length installations, prepare one order line per part number and reconcile each delivered cable with its intended pair of ports. For this assembly, the listed conductor specification is 28AWG; the minimum bend radius is 53mm; the stated power consumption is 10W Per End; the jacket material is PET.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 10W Per End. Include this load in the host-port power and thermal budget, especially in densely populated switches. Maintain front-panel clearance and do not bundle the cable so tightly that it obstructs airflow around the connectors.
Cable Construction and Routing
This assembly uses 28AWG conductors, PET jacket, minimum bend radius 53mm. These mechanical characteristics affect how the cable should be dressed behind the equipment. Avoid sharp edges, excessive ties and repeated tight bends close to the connector boots.
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP-DD MSA, IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Dell Compatibility and Factory Testing
Our procurement-oriented compatibility check begins with the OEM reference and ends with a live host link. We record the physical length separately from the identification configuration, so the cable supplied for this page remains the stated version rather than a generic length substitute. The check includes link stability and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.
Ordering Information
For a clear bill of materials, quote the OEM reference, HT part number, length and quantity on the same line. Add the switch or server model and software release when a pre-order review is required; project labels can repeat those details for receiving and installation teams. This page’s fixed configuration is 5m (16ft); another length must be quoted under its corresponding part number.
Quality Assurance and Packaging
Before packing, the assembly is checked for connector condition, identification and link operation. Cables for multi-line orders can be labelled and grouped by part number, making it easier to match each length to the procurement record without opening every protective bag. Neutral packaging and customer-specific packing documentation are available on request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original Dell cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Dell AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M.
Can different brands be connected with the same assembly?
Only where both hosts explicitly support the complete interface and compatibility arrangement. Document each end and select the appropriate brand-specific product when required.
Does this order code cover multiple lengths?
No. AEC-Q56DD-400G-5M refers here to 5m (16ft). Every other verified length has a separate part number and page in the length list.
Are separate transceivers or patch leads required?
No. This is one complete direct-attach assembly. The ends are not detachable modules and should not be separated from the cable.
Shipping and Lead Time
Available stock is generally dispatched within one to three working days after order confirmation, with production lead times advised for larger quantities. International express, air cargo and sea freight can be selected according to destination and carton volume; customer courier accounts and nominated forwarders are also accepted.