Arista Networks CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M Compatible 200G QSFP56 4 x 50G PAM4 Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 0.5m (2ft)
For buyers working from an equipment parts list, CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M identifies more than a connector style. It refers here to a 0.5m (2ft) DAC cable for Arista Networks hosts, supporting 200G operation with QSFP56 to QSFP56. The sections below separate the OEM cross-reference, physical specification and HT factory checks for straightforward purchasing review.
OEM Part Number: CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5MHT Part Number: CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Arista Networks CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M
- 200G connectivity at 200Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP56 to QSFP56
- Fixed length and part number: 0.5m (2ft), CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M
- Cable construction: Passive Twinax
- Conductor specification: 30AWG
- Maximum power consumption: 0.03W Per End
- Minimum bend radius: 39mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M |
|---|---|
| Arista Compatible | CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP56 to QSFP56 |
| Max. Data Rate | 200Gbps |
| Media | Copper |
| Cable Type | Passive Twinax |
| Cable Length | 0.5m (2ft) |
| Wire AWG | 30AWG |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 39mm |
| Max. Power Consumption | 0.03W Per End |
| Jacket Material | PVC |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | IEEE802.3cd, SFF-8436 |
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 0.03W 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.
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 30AWG; the minimum bend radius is 39mm; the stated power consumption is 0.03W Per End; the jacket material is PVC.
Cable Construction and Routing
This assembly uses 30AWG conductors, PVC jacket, minimum bend radius 39mm. 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 IEEE802.3cd, SFF-8436. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Passive Copper Operation
A passive DAC has no separate optical conversion stage. Its low-power, low-latency operation is useful for short equipment links, but the assembly must remain within the length and signaling mode accepted by both hosts.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
The 0.5m (2ft) length is suited to closely aligned ports where excessive slack would obstruct airflow or complicate dressing. Measure the actual port-to-port path before choosing CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M; even a short assembly must retain the specified bend radius and should never be pulled tight behind the equipment.
Position Within the Length Range
CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M is the shortest of 5 verified length options in this family. It is the preferred choice when the port positions are close and cable slack must be kept to a minimum. The next option is CAB-Q56-Q56-1M at 1m (3ft), adding 0.5m for a less direct routing path; selecting it unnecessarily would leave more cable to dress.
Arista Networks 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. Keep CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M associated with 0.5m (2ft) throughout the order and receiving record.
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 Arista Networks cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Arista Networks CAB-Q56-Q56-0.5M.
Can excess cable be folded into a compact bundle?
No. Use a supported, bend-safe service loop and observe the listed minimum bend radius. Do not crease the cable or tighten ties around the connector boots.
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.
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. Worldwide courier services are available, with air or sea freight for consolidated shipments; freight-collect delivery and coordination with a customer’s logistics provider can be arranged.