Cisco QSFP-4SFP25G-CU5M Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ to 4 x 25G SFP28 NRZ Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 5m (16ft)
The QSFP-4SFP25G-CU5M compatible assembly is intended for Cisco equipment that requires a 100G direct-attached connection. This version is specifically 5m (16ft), with QSFP28 to SFP28 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-4SFP25G-CU5MHT Part Number: QSFP-4SFP25G-CU5M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Cisco QSFP-4SFP25G-CU5M
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to SFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), QSFP-4SFP25G-CU5M
- Cable construction: Passive Twinax
- Conductor specification: 26AWG
- Maximum power consumption: ≤0.125W
- Minimum bend radius: 70mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | QSFP-4SFP25G-CU5M |
|---|---|
| Cisco Compatible | QSFP-4SFP25G-CU5M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to SFP28 |
| Max Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Cable Type | Passive Twinax |
| Cable Length | 5m (16ft) |
| Wire AWG | 26AWG |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 70mm |
| Power Consumption | ≤0.125W |
| Power Supply | 3.3V |
| MTBF | =50 Million Hours |
| Jacket Material | PVC (OFNR) |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Modulation Format | QSFP28-4x 25G-NRZ SFP28-1x 25G-NRZ |
| Media | Copper |
| Application | 100G to 4x 25G Ethernet, Data Centers |
| Protocols | IEEE 802.3, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665 |
Cisco OEM Reference
Cisco defines QSFP-4SFP25G-CUxM as a 100G QSFP to four 25G SFP passive copper breakout assembly. One end connects to a 100G QSFP port and the four branches connect to 25G interfaces on a switch or server. Correct channelization and lane mapping are essential for this HT compatible version as well.
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-4SFP25G-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-4SFP25G-CU5M is the longest of 8 verified length options in this family. Compared with QSFP-4SFP25G-CU3-5M at 3.5m (11ft), it provides 1.5m 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 70mm; the stated power consumption is ≤0.125W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).
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.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is ≤0.125W. 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 70mm. 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 to 4x 25G Ethernet, Data Centers. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP28 to 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.
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. Keep QSFP-4SFP25G-CU5M 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. 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 QSFP-4SFP25G-CU5M.
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. 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.