An Active Optical Cable (AOC) is a fiber-optic cable with integrated transceivers that converts electrical signals to light for high-speed data transmission. It’s used for connecting network devices like switches, routers, and servers over longer distances compared to copper cables.
AOCs are ideal for data centers, high-performance computing (HPC), and telecom applications, including rack-to-rack connections, storage systems, and switch-to-server interconnects requiring high bandwidth and low latency.
AOC cables support a variety of speeds, including 10Gbps (SFP+), 25Gbps (SFP28), 40Gbps (QSFP+), 100Gbps (QSFP28), 200Gbps (QSFP56), 400Gbps (QSFP-DD), and up to 800Gbps.
AOCs can reliably transmit data up to 100 meters, with some specialized models reaching further (e.g., 300m or 4km for single-mode). This makes them suitable for intra-data center and campus network connections.
- AOC Cables: Use fiber optics, support longer distances (up to 100m), are lighter, and are immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI). They’re ideal for high-density, longer-range connections.
- DAC Cables: Use copper, are limited to shorter distances (up to 7m), are more cost-effective, and consume less power but are heavier and susceptible to EMI.
AOC cables are designed to comply with industry standards (e.g. SFP+, QSFP28). Please be sure to confirm the compatibility of AOC with your equipment or consult your supplier.
Breakout AOCs split a high-speed port into multiple lower-speed ports (e.g., 100G QSFP28 to 4x 25G SFP28), offering a cost-effective way to connect devices with different port speeds within or across racks.
Yes, AOC cables are hot-swappable, allowing you to connect or disconnect them without powering down equipment, provided the devices support this feature.
- AOCs: Integrate transceivers and cables into a single unit, reducing costs and simplifying installation. However, they’re fixed-length and less flexible for rewiring.
- Transceivers: Require separate cables, offering more flexibility but higher costs and maintenance due to exposed optical interfaces.
Yes, AOCs support multiple protocols, including Ethernet, InfiniBand, Fibre Channel, and SAS, depending on the cable configuration and equipment. Confirm protocol compatibility before purchasing.
AOC cable are available in lengths from 1 meter to 100 meters, with common lengths being 3m, 5m, 10m, 30m, and 50m. Custom lengths may be offered by Fibrecross.
Consider:
- Data Rate: Match the cable to your equipment’s speed (e.g., 40G, 100G).
- Length: Select based on your setup’s distance requirements.
- Form Factor: Ensure compatibility (e.g., QSFP+ or SFP28).
- Protocol: Verify support for Ethernet, InfiniBand, etc.
- Environment: Account for EMI or cable management needs.
- Confirm compatibility with your equipment.
- Check that connectors are securely plugged in.
- Verify the cable length is within specifications.
- Test with another port or device to isolate the issue.
- Contact your supplier for support or replacement.
