NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-E00AE30 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Infiniband EDR Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 0.5m (2ft)
For buyers working from an equipment parts list, MCP1600-E00AE30 identifies more than a connector style. It refers here to a 0.5m (2ft) 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-E00AE30HT Part Number: MCP1600-E00AE30
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-E00AE30
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 0.5m (2ft), MCP1600-E00AE30
- Cable construction: Passive Twinax
- Conductor specification: 30AWG
- Maximum power consumption: ≤0.5W
- Minimum bend radius: 33.5mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MCP1600-E00AE30 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Infiniband Compatible | MCP1600-E00AE30 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to QSFP28 |
| Max Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Media | Copper |
| Cable Type | Passive Twinax |
| Cable Length | 0.5m (2ft) |
| Wire AWG | 30AWG |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 33.5mm |
| Power Consumption | ≤0.5W |
| Jacket Material | PVC (OFNR) |
| Modulation Format | 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 25G-NRZ |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | IEEE 802.3bj, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665, SFF-8436 |
| Application | InfiniBand EDR |
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.
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is InfiniBand EDR. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3bj, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665, 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 MCP1600-E00AE30; even a short assembly must retain the specified bend radius and should never be pulled tight behind the equipment.
Position Within the Length Range
MCP1600-E00AE30 is the shortest of 6 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 MCP1600-E001E30 at 1m (3ft), adding 0.5m for a less direct routing path; selecting it unnecessarily would leave more cable to dress.
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).
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.
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. 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 MCP1600-E00AE30 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. Standard protective packing is used by default, with project documentation arranged when requested.
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-E00AE30.
Does this order code cover multiple lengths?
No. MCP1600-E00AE30 refers here to 0.5m (2ft). 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.
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.
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.