Dell (DE) DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3M Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ to 4 x 25G SFP28 NRZ Passive Copper Breakout Cable, 3m (10ft)
This page gives procurement and network teams a precise reference for Dell (DE) DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3M: a 100G DAC assembly in a fixed 3m (10ft) configuration. The QSFP28 to SFP28 interface, HT ordering identity and verified specifications are presented together so the required cable can be matched to the bill of materials without confusing it with another length.
OEM Part Number: DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3MHT Part Number: DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Dell (DE) DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3M
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to SFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3M
- Cable construction: Passive Twinax
- Conductor specification: 30AWG
- Maximum power consumption: ≤0.125W
- Minimum bend radius: 60mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3M |
|---|---|
| Dell (DE) Compatible | DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to SFP28 |
| Max Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Cable Type | Passive Twinax |
| Cable Length | 3m (10ft) |
| Wire AWG | 30AWG |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 60mm |
| Power Consumption | ≤0.125W |
| Power Supply | 3.3V |
| MTBF | =50 Million Hours |
| Jacket Material | PVC (OFNR) |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Modulation Format | QSFP28-4x 25G-NRZ SFP28-1x 25G-NRZ |
| Media | Copper |
| Application | 100G to 4x 25G Ethernet, Data Centers |
| Protocols | IEEE 802.3, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is QSFP28-4x 25G-NRZ SFP28-1x 25G-NRZ. 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.
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 60mm; the stated power consumption is ≤0.125W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is ≤0.125W. 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 30AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 60mm. 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 100G to 4x 25G Ethernet, Data Centers. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP28 to SFP28 configuration divides the high-speed interface into multiple lower-speed connections. Verify the upstream lane assignment, downstream port speeds and breakout setting on the host before connecting the assembly. Each branch must attach to the correct remote interface.
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
At 3m (10ft), this assembly can bridge non-aligned ports or adjacent racks while remaining a single direct-attach link. Support longer horizontal runs with suitable cable management and preserve space for cooling and future maintenance.
Position Within the Length Range
DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3M occupies the middle of this family between DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-2.5M at 2.5m (8ft) and DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3.5M at 3.5m (11ft). It adds 0.5m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 0.5m. Measure the managed path and choose this version when its reach is sufficient without creating the slack associated with the longer assembly.
Dell (DE) 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, link stability 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. Keep DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3M associated with 3m (10ft) 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. Standard protective packing is used by default, with project documentation arranged when requested.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original Dell (DE) cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Dell (DE) DAC-Q28-4SFP28-25G-3M.
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
Standard configurations normally ship within one to three working days, while production quantities are confirmed with the order. 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.