NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C020 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ to 2 x 50G QSFP28 2 x 25G NRZ Ethernet Active Optical Breakout Cable, 20m (66ft)
The MFA7A20-C020 compatible assembly is intended for NVIDIA/Mellanox equipment that requires a 100G direct-attached connection. This version is specifically 20m (66ft), with QSFP28 to 2x 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: MFA7A20-C020HT Part Number: MFA7A20-C020
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C020
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 20m (66ft), MFA7A20-C020
- Cable construction: Breakout AOC
- Maximum power consumption: 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End)
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA7A20-C020 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Ethernet Compatible | MFA7A20-C020 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 |
| Max. Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Cable Length | 20m (66ft) |
| Cable Type | Breakout AOC |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Transmitter Type | VSCEL |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Max. Power Consumption | 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End) |
| Modulation Format | 4x 25G-NRZ to 2x 25G-NRZ |
| CDR (Clock and Data Recovery) | TX & RX Built-in CDR |
| Jacket Material | OFNP |
| DDM/DOM | Supported |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | QSFP28 Electrical MSA, SFF-8636, SFF-8665 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 4x 25G-NRZ to 2x 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.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 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.
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
Measure twice before deploying this 20m (66ft) cable: once along the planned route and again after accounting for service access. The objective is adequate reach without a concealed surplus. Support the integrated optical cable and both optical engines, preserve front-panel clearance and check that nearby power cords or sharp hardware cannot damage the jacket. Within this family, MFA7A20-C010 is shorter at 10m (33ft), while MFA7A20-C030 is the next longer choice at 30m (98ft); comparing those two boundaries helps avoid both tension and unnecessary slack.
Position Within the Length Range
MFA7A20-C020 occupies the middle of this family between MFA7A20-C010 at 10m (33ft) and MFA7A20-C030 at 30m (98ft). It adds 10m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 10m. 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 (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End); the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G 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.
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 determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP28 Electrical MSA, SFF-8636, 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. This page’s fixed configuration is 20m (66ft); another length must be quoted under its corresponding part number.
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 MFA7A20-C020.
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.
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.
Shipping and Lead Time
Standard configurations normally ship within one to three working days, while production quantities are confirmed with the order. International express, air cargo and sea freight can be selected according to destination and carton volume; customer courier accounts and nominated forwarders are also accepted.