NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C100 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ to 2 x 50G QSFP28 2 x 25G NRZ Ethernet Active Optical Breakout Cable, 100m (328ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C100
• 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28
• Fixed length and part number: 100m (328ft), MFA7A20-C100
• Cable construction: Breakout AOC
• Maximum power consumption: 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End)
• Minimum bend radius: 30mm
• Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)

Specifications

Signal and Lane Configuration

The listed modulation format is 4x 25G-NRZ to 2x 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.

Length Selection and Installation Planning

Longer assemblies require disciplined cable dressing. For MFA7A20-C100 at 100m (328ft), use the intended managers rather than a diagonal route across the rack, and leave enough space to release each connector. Any service allowance should be loose and supported, with the integrated optical cable and both optical engines protected throughout the path. The next shorter verified assembly is MFA7A20-C070 at 70m (230ft), which is the better comparison when the managed route leaves substantial unused cable.

Position Within the Length Range

MFA7A20-C100 is the longest of 10 verified length options in this family. Compared with MFA7A20-C070 at 70m (230ft), it provides 30m 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.

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 minimum bend radius is 30mm; the stated power consumption is 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End); the jacket material is OFNP.

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G 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 determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP28 Electrical MSA, SFF-8636, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

Breakout Port Mapping

The QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 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.

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.

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. Keep MFA7A20-C100 associated with 100m (328ft) throughout the order and receiving record.

NVIDIA/Mellanox 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 receive activity and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.

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. Worldwide courier services are available, with air or sea freight for consolidated shipments; freight-collect delivery and coordination with a customer’s logistics provider can be arranged.

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. Neutral packaging and customer-specific packing documentation are available on request.

Frequently Asked Questions