Cisco Q56-200-CU3M Compatible 200G QSFP56 4 x 50G PAM4 Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 3m (10ft)
For buyers working from an equipment parts list, Q56-200-CU3M identifies more than a connector style. It refers here to a 3m (10ft) DAC cable for Cisco hosts, supporting 200G operation with QSFP56 to QSFP56. The sections below separate the OEM cross-reference, physical specification and HT factory checks for straightforward purchasing review.
OEM Part Number: Q56-200-CU3MHT Part Number: Q56-200-CU3M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Cisco Q56-200-CU3M
- 200G connectivity at 200Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP56 to QSFP56
- Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), Q56-200-CU3M
- Cable construction: Passive Twinax
- Conductor specification: 26AWG
- Maximum power consumption: 0.03W Per End
- Minimum bend radius: 44.5mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | Q56-200-CU3M |
|---|---|
| Cisco Compatible | Q56-200-CU3M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP56 to QSFP56 |
| Max. Data Rate | 200Gbps |
| Media | Copper |
| Cable Type | Passive Twinax |
| Cable Length | 3m (10ft) |
| Wire AWG | 26AWG |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 44.5mm |
| Max. Power Consumption | 0.03W Per End |
| Jacket Material | PVC |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | IEEE802.3cd, SFF-8436 |
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 0.03W 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.
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE802.3cd, 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
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
Q56-200-CU3M is the longest of 5 verified length options in this family. Compared with Q56-200-CU2M at 2m (7ft), it provides 1m of additional reach for a longer vertical drop, a wider rack or an adjacent-cabinet route. Confirm that the complete path requires this length, because unused slack still needs supported, bend-safe storage.
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 26AWG; the minimum bend radius is 44.5mm; the stated power consumption is 0.03W Per End; the jacket material is PVC.
Cable Construction and Routing
This assembly uses 26AWG conductors, PVC jacket, minimum bend radius 44.5mm. 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.
Cisco 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 link stability 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. Quantity and any labeling instructions should be attached specifically to Q56-200-CU3M.
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 Cisco cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Cisco Q56-200-CU3M.
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.
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.
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.