Dell AEC-Q56DD-400G-2M Compatible 400G QSFP-DD 8 x 50G PAM4 Active Electrical Cable, 2m (7ft)
This 2m (7ft) AEC assembly is made for installations that call for Dell AEC-Q56DD-400G-2M at 400G. The QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD connectors and cable arrive as one complete product, ready for a direct link between suitable ports. Field-handling guidance, exact specifications and pre-packing functional checks apply to the part number shown here.
OEM Part Number: AEC-Q56DD-400G-2MHT Part Number: AEC-Q56DD-400G-2M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Dell AEC-Q56DD-400G-2M
- 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD
- Fixed length and part number: 2m (7ft), AEC-Q56DD-400G-2M
- Cable construction: Active DAC (AEC)
- Conductor specification: 32AWG
- Maximum power consumption: 10W Per End
- Minimum bend radius: 26.5mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | AEC-Q56DD-400G-2M |
|---|---|
| Dell Compatible | AEC-Q56DD-400G-2M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD |
| Max. Data Rate | 400Gbps |
| Media | Copper |
| Cable Type | Active DAC (AEC) |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 26.5mm |
| Wire AWG | 32AWG |
| Cable Length | 2m (7ft) |
| Jacket Material | PET |
| Max. Power Consumption | 10W Per End |
| Modulation Format | 8x 50G-PAM4 |
| DDM/DOM | Supported |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | QSFP-DD MSA, IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 8x 50G-PAM4. 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.
Position Within the Length Range
AEC-Q56DD-400G-2M occupies the middle of this family between AEC-Q56DD-400G-1M at 1m (3ft) and AEC-Q56DD-400G-3M at 3m (10ft). It adds 1m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 1m. Measure the managed path and choose this version when its reach is sufficient without creating the slack associated with the longer assembly.
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 32AWG; the minimum bend radius is 26.5mm; the stated power consumption is 10W Per End; the jacket material is PET.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 10W Per End. 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 32AWG conductors, PET jacket, minimum bend radius 26.5mm. 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 determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP-DD MSA, IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
AEC-Q56DD-400G-2M provides 2m (7ft) for connections between separated rack units or nearby equipment positions. Plan the route around cable managers and power cords, keeping the assembly free from connector strain while avoiding a large obstruction in the airflow path.
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. Standard protective packing is used by default, with project documentation arranged when requested.
Dell 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 Dell cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Dell AEC-Q56DD-400G-2M.
Will any matching connector operate at the same speed?
Not necessarily. Both hosts must support the stated rate, identification, lane mapping and any required breakout configuration; mechanical compatibility alone is insufficient.
What details assist a compatibility review?
Provide the equipment manufacturer, model, port type, hardware revision and software release, together with the OEM reference, required length and quantity.
How should an unused assembly be stored?
Protect both connector ends, keep the cable in a loose bend-safe coil and retain its part-number label so the length and compatibility identity remain traceable.
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. This page’s fixed configuration is 2m (7ft); another length must be quoted under its corresponding part number.
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.
