NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-C003 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Ethernet Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 3m (10ft)
For buyers working from an equipment parts list, MCP1600-C003 identifies more than a connector style. It refers here to a 3m (10ft) DAC cable for NVIDIA/Mellanox hosts, supporting 100G operation with QSFP28 to QSFP28. The sections below separate the OEM cross-reference, physical specification and HT factory checks for straightforward purchasing review.
OEM Part Number: MCP1600-C003HT Part Number: MCP1600-C003
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-C003
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), MCP1600-C003
- Cable construction: Passive Twinax
- Conductor specification: 30AWG
- Maximum power consumption: ≤0.5W
- Minimum bend radius: 33.5mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MCP1600-C003 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Ethernet Compatible | MCP1600-C003 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to QSFP28 |
| Max. Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Media | Copper |
| Cable Type | Passive Twinax |
| Cable Length | 3m (9.84ft) |
| Jacket Material | PVC (OFNR) |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 33.5mm |
| Wire AWG | 30AWG |
| Max. Power Consumption | ≤0.5W |
| Modulation Format | 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 25G-NRZ |
| Power Supply | 3.3V |
| MTBF | ≈50 Million Hours |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Application | 100G Ethernet |
| Protocols | QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8662, IEEE 802.3 |
NVIDIA OEM Reference
NVIDIA describes MCP1600 QSFP28 passive copper cables as four high-speed copper pairs operating at up to 25GbE per pair, with EEPROM product identification readable by the host. Its documentation distinguishes shorter no-FEC versions from longer RS-FEC versions, with specific variants at 2.5m and 3m. Check the exact suffix rather than selecting by length alone.
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 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.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is ≤0.5W. 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 33.5mm. 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 Ethernet. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8662, IEEE 802.3. 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
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
MCP1600-C003 occupies the middle of this family between MCP1600-C0025 at 2.5m (8ft) and MCP1600-C005 at 5m (16ft). It adds 0.5m 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 listed conductor specification is 30AWG; the minimum bend radius is 33.5mm; the stated power consumption is ≤0.5W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).
NVIDIA/Mellanox 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. Quantity and any labeling instructions should be attached specifically to MCP1600-C003.
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 NVIDIA/Mellanox cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-C003.
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. 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.