Dell AOC-Q56DD-400G-5M Compatible 400G QSFP-DD 8 x 50G PAM4 Active Optical Cable, 5m (16ft)
For buyers working from an equipment parts list, AOC-Q56DD-400G-5M identifies more than a connector style. It refers here to a 5m (16ft) AOC cable for Dell hosts, supporting 400G operation with QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD. The sections below separate the OEM cross-reference, physical specification and HT factory checks for straightforward purchasing review.
OEM Part Number: AOC-Q56DD-400G-5MHT Part Number: AOC-Q56DD-400G-5M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Dell AOC-Q56DD-400G-5M
- 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), AOC-Q56DD-400G-5M
- Cable construction: OM4
- Maximum power consumption: 8W Per End
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | AOC-Q56DD-400G-5M |
|---|---|
| Dell Compatible | AOC-Q56DD-400G-5M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD |
| Max. Data Rate | 400Gbps |
| Cable Length | 5m (16ft) |
| Cable Type | OM4 |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Transmitter Type | VSCEL |
| Receiver Type | 850nm PIN |
| Max. Power Consumption | 8W Per End |
| Jacket Material | OFNP |
| CDR (Clock and Data Recovery) | TX & RX Built-in CDR |
| Modulation Format | PAM4 |
| DDM/DOM | Supported |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | IEEE 802.3cd, OIF-CEI-04.0, QSFP-DD MSA,QSFP-DD-CMIS-rev4p0 |
| Inbuilt FEC | No |
| Application | 8x 50G-PAM4 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 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.
Cable Construction and Routing
This assembly uses OFNP jacket, minimum bend radius 30mm. 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 8x 50G-PAM4. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3cd, OIF-CEI-04.0, QSFP-DD MSA,QSFP-DD-CMIS-rev4p0. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Integrated Optical Assembly
The optical engines and fiber are permanently integrated into this AOC. There are no detachable optical modules to clean or exchange. Handle the complete assembly by its connector housings and cable, and keep both ends matched to the same interface specification.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
The 5m (16ft) length gives AOC-Q56DD-400G-5M more freedom for adjacent-rack and row-end deployments. The integrated optical assembly should be supported along its route without tight bends or connector pull loads; the AOC specification and host support must still match the intended link.
Position Within the Length Range
AOC-Q56DD-400G-5M occupies the middle of this family between AOC-Q56DD-400G-3M at 3m (10ft) and AOC-Q56DD-400G-7M at 7m (23ft). It adds 2m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 2m. Measure the managed path and choose this version when its reach is sufficient without creating the slack associated with the longer assembly.
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 minimum bend radius is 30mm; the stated power consumption is 8W Per End; the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 8W 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.
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. Where supported by the host, receive activity and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.
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. Volume orders can include customer references on the labels and carton list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original Dell cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Dell AOC-Q56DD-400G-5M.
Will any matching connector operate at the same speed?
Not necessarily. Both hosts must support the stated rate, identification, lane mapping and any required breakout configuration; mechanical compatibility alone is insufficient.
What details assist a compatibility review?
Provide the equipment manufacturer, model, port type, hardware revision and software release, together with the OEM reference, required length and quantity.
How should an unused assembly be stored?
Protect both connector ends, keep the cable in a loose bend-safe coil and retain its part-number label so the length and compatibility identity remain traceable.
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. Delivery can be arranged by courier, air freight or sea freight, and goods may instead be handed to an appointed forwarder or shipped on the customer’s courier account.