Cisco QSFP-8LC-AOC20M Compatible 40G QSFP+ to 4 Duplex LC Active Optical Breakout Cable, 20m (66ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to Cisco QSFP-8LC-AOC20M
• 40G connectivity at 40Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP+ to 4 duplex LC
• Fixed length and part number: 20m (66ft), QSFP-8LC-AOC20M
• Minimum bend radius: 30mm

Specifications

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.

Length Selection and Installation Planning

For this 20m (66ft) version, prepare the destination pathway before connecting either end. A longer assembly can cross separated equipment positions, but its weight and service slack must remain supported without blocking airflow. Handle the integrated optical cable and both optical engines as one factory-terminated product and never pull a connector into position by the cable. Within this family, QSFP-8LC-AOC15M is shorter at 15m (49ft), while QSFP-8LC-AOC30M is the next longer choice at 30m (98ft); comparing those two boundaries helps avoid both tension and unnecessary slack.

Position Within the Length Range

QSFP-8LC-AOC20M occupies the middle of this family between QSFP-8LC-AOC15M at 15m (49ft) and QSFP-8LC-AOC30M at 30m (98ft). It adds 5m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 10m. 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 minimum bend radius is 30mm; the jacket material is OFNP.

Network and Protocol Considerations

The intended application is determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include 10G/40Gigabit Ethernet or Fibre Channel. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

Breakout Port Mapping

The QSFP+ to 4 duplex LC 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. This page’s fixed configuration is 20m (66ft); 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. Where supported by the host, receive activity and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.

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. Volume orders can include customer references on the labels and carton list.

Frequently Asked Questions