Cisco QSFP-100G-CU5M Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 5m (16ft)
The QSFP-100G-CU5M compatible assembly is intended for Cisco equipment that requires a 100G direct-attached connection. This version is specifically 5m (16ft), 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: QSFP-100G-CU5MHT Part Number: QSFP-100G-CU5M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Cisco QSFP-100G-CU5M
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), QSFP-100G-CU5M
- Cable construction: Passive Twinax
- Conductor specification: 26AWG
- Maximum power consumption: ≤0.5W
- Minimum bend radius: 45mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | QSFP-100G-CU5M |
|---|---|
| Cisco Compatible | QSFP-100G-CU5M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to QSFP28 |
| Max. Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Media | Copper |
| Cable Type | Passive Twinax |
| Cable Length | 5m (16.4ft) |
| Jacket Material | PVC (OFNR) |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 45mm |
| Wire AWG | 26AWG |
| Max. Power Consumption | ≤0.5W |
| Modulation Format | 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 25G-NRZ |
| Power Supply | 3.3V |
| MTBF | ≈50 Million Hours |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Application | 100G Ethernet |
| Protocols | QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8662, IEEE 802.3 |
Cisco OEM Reference
Cisco classifies the QSFP-100G-CUxM family as 100GBASE-CR4 passive copper direct-attach cable for very short links within racks and between adjacent racks. Its documented family includes 1m, 1.5m, 2m, 2.5m, 3m and 5m part numbers. This HT page covers the exact length and OEM reference shown above; the compatible assembly itself follows the HT specification table.
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
The 5m (16ft) length gives QSFP-100G-CU5M more freedom for adjacent-rack and row-end deployments. Longer copper runs need particular attention to routing weight and bend control; the DAC specification and host support must still match the intended link.
Position Within the Length Range
QSFP-100G-CU5M is the longest of 7 verified length options in this family. Compared with QSFP-100G-CU3M at 3m (10ft), it provides 2m 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 45mm; the stated power consumption is ≤0.5W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 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.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is ≤0.5W. 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 26AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 45mm. 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 100G Ethernet. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8662, IEEE 802.3. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
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. 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 Cisco cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Cisco QSFP-100G-CU5M.
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. QSFP-100G-CU5M refers here to 5m (16ft). Every other verified length has a separate part number and page in the length list.
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.