Cisco QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M Compatible 40G QSFP+ to 4 x 10G SFP+ Active Copper Breakout Cable, 9m (29ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to Cisco QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M
• 40G connectivity at 40Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP+ to SFP+
• Fixed length and part number: 9m (29ft), QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M
• Cable construction: Active Twinax
• Conductor specification: 26AWG
• Maximum power consumption: ≤1.8W
• Minimum bend radius: 44.5mm

Specifications

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is ≤1.8W. 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 SFF-8431, SFF-8432, SFF-8472 SFP+ MSA, SFF-8436 QSFP+ MSA. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

Breakout Port Mapping

The QSFP+ to SFP+ 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.

Length Selection and Installation Planning

The 9m (29ft) reach of QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M is useful only when the managed pathway requires it; straight-line distance between ports is not a sufficient measurement. Check the route around rack rails, cable managers and maintenance clearances, then protect the complete copper assembly and both connector housings from tight bends and unsupported spans. The next shorter verified assembly is QSFP-4 x 10G-AC7M at 7m (23ft), which is the better comparison when the managed route leaves substantial unused cable.

Position Within the Length Range

QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M is the longest of 5 verified length options in this family. Compared with QSFP-4 x 10G-AC7M at 7m (23ft), 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.

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 26AWG; the minimum bend radius is 44.5mm; the stated power consumption is ≤1.8W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).

Cable Construction and Routing

This assembly uses 26AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) 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.

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 9m (29ft); another length must be quoted under its corresponding part number.

Cisco 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