Arista Networks CAB-O-2Q-400G-3M Compatible 400G OSFP 8 x 50G PAM4 IHS/Finned Top to 2 x 200G QSFP56 4 x 50G PAM4 Passive Copper Breakout Cable, 3m (10ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to Arista Networks CAB-O-2Q-400G-3M
• 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
• Interface configuration: OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 2x QSFP56
• Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), CAB-O-2Q-400G-3M
• Cable construction: Passive Twinax
• Conductor specification: 28AWG
• Maximum power consumption: 0.1W (OSFP End) 0.1W (QSFP56 Per End)
• Minimum bend radius: 40.5mm

Specifications

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is 0.1W (OSFP End) 0.1W (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 28AWG conductors, PVC jacket, minimum bend radius 40.5mm. 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.

Network and Protocol Considerations

The intended application is 400G Ethernet. Listed interface and protocol references include OSFP MSA, CMIS Rev4.0, IEEE802.3cd, SFF-8436, SFF-8665, SFF-8679, SFF-8636. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

Breakout Port Mapping

The OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 2x 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.

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

CAB-O-2Q-400G-3M occupies the middle of this family between OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 2x QSFP56-400G-DAC-2.5M8FT at 2.5m (8ft) and OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 2x QSFP56-400G-DAC-3M10FT at 3m (10ft). It adds 0.5m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 0m. Measure the managed path and choose this version when its reach is sufficient without creating the slack associated with the longer assembly.

Interoperability and Configuration Checks

Check three layers before deployment: the host must accept the cable identification, the port must support the stated aggregate rate, and the lane configuration must match the attached interfaces. On breakout hardware, also confirm channelization and the mapping of every branch. These checks are particularly important when similar-looking ports operate at different speeds or under different firmware settings. For this assembly, the listed conductor specification is 28AWG; the minimum bend radius is 40.5mm; the stated power consumption is 0.1W (OSFP End) 0.1W (QSFP56 Per End); the jacket material is PVC.

Ordering Information

Specify the OEM part number and fixed length, then provide the intended host configuration if the link uses channelized or breakout ports. Separate part numbers should be used for separate lengths. This gives the compatibility review enough information to check both the physical assembly and the intended operating mode. This page’s fixed configuration is 3m (10ft); another length must be quoted under its corresponding part number.

Arista Networks Compatibility and Factory Testing

The verification process combines digital identification with a live link test and diagnostic observation. Host model, hardware revision and software release are useful inputs because qualification behavior can change between platform generations; those details allow platform-specific requirements to be reviewed before the cable is packed. The check includes link stability and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.

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.

Quality Assurance and Packaging

Functional inspection covers identification, link establishment and the condition of both connector assemblies. The cable is then protected against dust and connector damage and packed without sharp bends. Labels can include the customer reference and host-platform note when requested for a controlled deployment. Standard protective packing is used by default, with project documentation arranged when requested.

Frequently Asked Questions