Brocade 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ to 4 x 25G SFP28 NRZ Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 5m (16ft)

The 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501 compatible DAC cable provides 100G connectivity for Brocade equipment over a fixed 5m (16ft) assembly. Both ends use the stated QSFP28 to SFP28 arrangement. It is inspected and functionally checked before packing, with handling guidance designed to protect the connectors during installation and later service.
OEM Part Number: 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501HT Part Number: 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Brocade 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to SFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501
- Cable construction: Passive Twinax
- Conductor specification: 26AWG
- Maximum power consumption: ≤0.125W
- Minimum bend radius: 70mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501 |
|---|---|
| Brocade Compatible | 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to SFP28 |
| Max Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Cable Type | Passive Twinax |
| Cable Length | 5m (16ft) |
| Wire AWG | 26AWG |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 70mm |
| Power Consumption | ≤0.125W |
| Power Supply | 3.3V |
| MTBF | =50 Million Hours |
| Jacket Material | PVC (OFNR) |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Modulation Format | QSFP28-4x 25G-NRZ SFP28-1x 25G-NRZ |
| Media | Copper |
| Application | 100G to 4x 25G Ethernet, Data Centers |
| Protocols | IEEE 802.3, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is QSFP28-4x 25G-NRZ SFP28-1x 25G-NRZ. Both host interfaces must be configured for the same aggregate rate and lane arrangement. A connector that fits mechanically does not by itself guarantee that the remote port supports this encoding or breakout mode.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is ≤0.125W. 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.
Cable Construction and Routing
This assembly uses 26AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 70mm. 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.
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is 100G to 4x 25G Ethernet, Data Centers. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP28 to SFP28 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.
Passive Copper Operation
A passive DAC has no separate optical conversion stage. Its low-power, low-latency operation is useful for short equipment links, but the assembly must remain within the length and signaling mode accepted by both hosts.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
The 5m (16ft) length gives 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501 more freedom for adjacent-rack and row-end deployments. Longer copper runs need particular attention to routing weight and bend control; the DAC specification and host support must still match the intended link.
Position Within the Length Range
100G-Q28-S28-C-0501 is the longest of 8 verified length options in this family. Compared with 100G-Q28-S28-C-03501 at 3.5m (11ft), it provides 1.5m 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.
Field Installation and Maintenance
Inspect the route and both connectors before installation, then support the cable without pulling on either connector housing. During maintenance, release the latch properly rather than using the cable as a handle. Keep protection on unused ends, and if the assembly is removed for later use, coil it loosely and record its part number so the same length can be returned to service. For this assembly, the listed conductor specification is 26AWG; the minimum bend radius is 70mm; the stated power consumption is ≤0.125W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).
Quality Assurance and Packaging
The cable and both connectors are inspected before a functional link test. Connector protection and bend-safe packing reduce handling damage during transport and storage. Customer or site labels can be added for field inventories, with different lengths separated to simplify issue and return of spare assemblies. Neutral packaging and customer-specific packing documentation are available on request.
Brocade Compatibility and Factory Testing
A field-ready cable needs both correct identification and a stable operating link. Our pre-packing check therefore includes the connectors, host recognition and link behavior. For equipment with uncertain revision history, providing the host model and software release helps identify compatibility requirements before the assembly reaches the installation site. Both connectors are examined before the operating test, which includes link stability and diagnostic indications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original Brocade cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Brocade 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501.
Can different brands be connected with the same assembly?
Only where both hosts explicitly support the complete interface and compatibility arrangement. Document each end and select the appropriate brand-specific product when required.
Does this order code cover multiple lengths?
No. 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501 refers here to 5m (16ft). Every other verified length has a separate part number and page in the length list.
Are separate transceivers or patch leads required?
No. This is one complete direct-attach assembly. The ends are not detachable modules and should not be separated from the cable.
Ordering Information
Request the cable by its exact part number and length, and state the equipment model if compatibility confirmation is needed. Site orders can list quantities by rack or installation team. Any requested label should retain the part number so a removed or spare cable can still be identified accurately. Keep 100G-Q28-S28-C-0501 associated with 5m (16ft) throughout the order and receiving record.
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. International express, air cargo and sea freight can be selected according to destination and carton volume; customer courier accounts and nominated forwarders are also accepted.
