StarTech QSFP4X10AO15 15m QSFP to 4 SFP Active Optical Breakout Cable
Overview
The StarTech QSFP4X10AO15 is a 15-meter (49.2 ft) Cisco-compatible Active Optical Breakout Cable (AOC) designed for high-density 40 Gigabit Ethernet (40GbE) deployments. This cable enables the integration of a single 40Gbps QSFP+ port on a high-end switch or router with four independent 10Gbps SFP+ ports on downstream servers, storage arrays, or secondary switches. This “breakout” configuration is essential for data center leaf-spine architectures and top-of-rack (ToR) connectivity where port consolidation is a priority.
Unlike passive copper breakout cables (DACs), this Active Optical Cable utilizes fiber optic technology to transmit data. This allows for significantly longer reach and a thinner, more flexible cable diameter that improves airflow within high-density server racks. The optical design also provides superior immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI), ensuring signal integrity over the full 15-meter span.
The QSFP4X10AO15 is hot-swappable and features integrated transceiver ends that are factory-programmed to ensure seamless “plug-and-play” operation with Cisco and other MSA-compliant networking hardware. It is an ideal solution for inter-rack and intra-rack connections where the 7-meter limit of passive copper is insufficient but the cost of discrete transceivers and separate fiber runs is prohibitive.
Key Features
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Breaks out a 40Gbps QSFP+ port into four 10Gbps SFP+ connections
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15-meter reach exceeds the distance limitations of passive copper DACs
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Active Optical Fiber design is immune to EMI and reduces cable bulk
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Fully hot-swappable to prevent network downtime during installation
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Low power consumption design helps manage data center energy efficiency
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