NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A50-C005 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ to 4 x 25G SFP28 NRZ Ethernet Active Optical Breakout Cable, 5m (16ft)
For buyers working from an equipment parts list, MFA7A50-C005 identifies more than a connector style. It refers here to a 5m (16ft) AOC cable for NVIDIA/Mellanox hosts, supporting 100G operation with QSFP28 to 4x SFP28. The sections below separate the OEM cross-reference, physical specification and HT factory checks for straightforward purchasing review.
OEM Part Number: MFA7A50-C005HT Part Number: MFA7A50-C005
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A50-C005
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to 4x SFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), MFA7A50-C005
- Cable construction: Breakout AOC
- Maximum power consumption: 2.2W (QSFP28 End)0.8W (SFP28 Per End)
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA7A50-C005 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Ethernet Compatible | MFA7A50-C005 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to 4x SFP28 |
| Max. Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Cable Length | 5m (16ft) |
| Cable Type | Breakout AOC |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Transmitter Type | VCSEL |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Max. Power Consumption | 2.2W (QSFP28 End)0.8W (SFP28 Per End) |
| Modulation Format | QSFP28-4x 25G-NRZ SFP28-1x 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 MSA, SFP28 MSA |
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.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP28 to 4x 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.
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
The 5m (16ft) length gives MFA7A50-C005 more freedom for adjacent-rack and row-end deployments. The integrated optical assembly should be supported along its route without tight bends or connector pull loads; the AOC specification and host support must still match the intended link.
Position Within the Length Range
MFA7A50-C005 occupies the middle of this family between MFA7A50-C003 at 3m (10ft) and MFA7A50-C007 at 7m (23ft). It adds 2m 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 (QSFP28 End)0.8W (SFP28 Per End); the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 2.2W (QSFP28 End)0.8W (SFP28 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 MSA, SFP28 MSA. 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 5m (16ft); 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 MFA7A50-C005.
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
Available stock is generally dispatched within one to three working days after order confirmation, with production lead times advised for larger quantities. 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.