NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E03 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Infiniband EDR Active Optical Cable, 3m (10ft)

The MFA1A00-E03 compatible assembly is intended for NVIDIA/Mellanox equipment that requires a 100G direct-attached connection. This version is specifically 3m (10ft), with QSFP28 to QSFP28 and its own order reference. Exact length pages and equivalent brand references are linked to make multi-product procurement easier to verify.
OEM Part Number: MFA1A00-E03HT Part Number: MFA1A00-E03
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E03
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), MFA1A00-E03
- Cable construction: Optical Cable
- Maximum power consumption: <2.2W
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA1A00-E03 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Infiniband Compatible | MFA1A00-E003 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to QSFP28 |
| Max Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Cable Length | 3m (10ft) |
| Jacket Material | OFNP |
| Cable Type | Optical Cable |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Transmitter Type | VCSEL |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Power Consumption | <2.2W |
| MTBF | ≈50 Million Hours |
| Power supply | 3.3V |
| Modulation Format | NRZ |
| DDM/DOM | Supported |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | IEEE 802.3 bm, SFF-8665 |
| CDR (Clock and Data Recovery) | TX & RX Built-in CDR |
| Modulation Format | 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 25G-NRZ |
| Application | InfiniBand EDR |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 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.
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
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
MFA1A00-E03 occupies the middle of this family between MFA1A00-E002 at 2m (7ft) and MFA1A00-E005 at 5m (16ft). It adds 1m 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 <2.2W; the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is <2.2W. 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 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 InfiniBand EDR. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3 bm, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
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. Both connectors are examined before the operating test, which includes receive activity and diagnostic indications.
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 MFA1A00-E03 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. 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 MFA1A00-E03.
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.
Can different brands be connected with the same assembly?
Only where both hosts explicitly support the complete interface and compatibility arrangement. Document each end and select the appropriate brand-specific product when required.
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.