# QSFP28 to SFP28 Breakout Cable Overview
## Introduction to QSFP28 and SFP28
QSFP28 (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable 28) and SFP28 (Small Form-factor Pluggable 28) are both high-speed transceiver modules used in modern data center and networking applications. While QSFP28 supports 100G Ethernet with its four 25G or 28G lanes, SFP28 is designed for 25G or 28G single-lane applications.
## What is a QSFP28 to SFP28 Breakout Cable?
A QSFP28 to SFP28 breakout cable is a specialized passive copper cable that enables connectivity between a QSFP28 port and four SFP28 ports. This cable effectively “breaks out” the four lanes of a QSFP28 interface into four separate SFP28 connections.
### Key Features
– High-speed data transmission (up to 28Gbps per lane)
– Low power consumption
– Hot-pluggable design
– Flexible and cost-effective solution
– Typically available in lengths from 1m to 5m
## Applications and Use Cases
QSFP28 to SFP28 breakout cables find applications in various scenarios:
### Data Center Connectivity
These cables are particularly useful in data center environments where high-density 100G QSFP28 switches need to connect to multiple 25G SFP28 servers or storage devices.
### Network Migration
Keyword: qsfp28 to sfp28 breakout cable
They serve as an excellent solution during network upgrades, allowing gradual migration from 100G to 25G infrastructure without requiring complete equipment replacement.
### High-Performance Computing
In HPC environments, these cables provide flexible connectivity options between different generations of networking equipment.
## Advantages of Using Breakout Cables
– Cost Efficiency: More economical than using multiple individual transceivers
– Simplified Management: Reduces cable clutter compared to separate connections
– Flexibility: Enables various connection configurations
– Reliability: Passive copper cables offer stable performance with low latency
## Technical Specifications
Parameter | Value
Connector Type | QSFP28 to 4x SFP28
Data Rate | Up to 28Gbps per lane
Cable Type | Passive Direct Attach Copper (DAC)
Maximum Length | Typically 5m (varies by manufacturer)
Operating Temperature | 0°C to 70°C
Compliance | IEEE 802.3by, SFF-8436, SFF-8636
## Installation Considerations
When deploying QSFP28 to SFP28 breakout cables, consider the following:
– Ensure compatibility with your networking equipment
– Verify maximum supported cable length for your application
– Check power requirements and thermal considerations
– Plan cable routing to avoid excessive bending
– Consider future scalability needs
## Conclusion
QSFP28 to SFP28 breakout cables provide an efficient and cost-effective solution for connecting high-speed networking equipment with different interface types. Their flexibility makes them ideal for data centers, enterprise networks, and HPC environments looking to optimize their infrastructure while maintaining high performance.