NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H005 Compatible 400G OSFP 8 x 50G PAM4 IHS/Finned Top to 4 x 100G QSFP56 2 x 50G PAM4 InfiniBand HDR Active Optical Breakout Cable, 5m (16ft)
For buyers working from an equipment parts list, MFA7U20-H005 identifies more than a connector style. It refers here to a 5m (16ft) AOC cable for NVIDIA/Mellanox hosts, supporting 400G operation with OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56. The sections below separate the OEM cross-reference, physical specification and HT factory checks for straightforward purchasing review.
OEM Part Number: MFA7U20-H005HT Part Number: MFA7U20-H005
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H005
- 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
- Interface configuration: OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), MFA7U20-H005
- Cable construction: Breakout AOC
- Maximum power consumption: 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End)
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA7U20-H005 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox InfiniBandCompatible | MFA7U20-H005 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56 |
| Max. Data Rate | 400Gbps |
| Cable Length | 5m (16ft) |
| Cable Type | Breakout AOC |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Transmitter Type | VSCEL |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Max. Power Consumption | 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End) |
| Modulation Format | OSFP-8x 50G-PAM4QSFP56-2x 50G-PAM4 |
| 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 | IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0, SFF-8661, SFF-8636 |
| Application | 400G to 4x 100G |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is OSFP-8x 50G-PAM4QSFP56-2x 50G-PAM4. 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
The 5m (16ft) length gives MFA7U20-H005 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
MFA7U20-H005 occupies the middle of this family between MFA7U20-H003 at 3m (10ft) and MFA7U20-H010 at 10m (33ft). It adds 2m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 5m. 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 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End); the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 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 400G to 4x 100G. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0, SFF-8661, SFF-8636. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56 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.
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 receive activity 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. Keep MFA7U20-H005 associated with 5m (16ft) 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. Volume orders can include customer references on the labels and carton list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original NVIDIA/Mellanox cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H005.
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.
Does this order code cover multiple lengths?
No. MFA7U20-H005 refers here to 5m (16ft). Every other verified length has a separate part number and page in the length list.
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.