Dell (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M Compatible 40G QSFP+ Active Optical Cable, 20m (66ft)
For a direct equipment connection requiring Dell (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M, this page supplies the 20m (66ft) version with QSFP+ to QSFP+. The cable supports 40G operation and eliminates a separate module-and-patch-cord assembly. Installation, maintenance and spare-cable identification are addressed alongside the full technical details.
OEM Part Number: (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20MHT Part Number: (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Dell (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M
- 40G connectivity at 40Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP+ to QSFP+
- Fixed length and part number: 20m (66ft), (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M |
|---|---|
| Dell (Force10) Compatible | CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Connector Type | QSFP+ to QSFP+ |
| Data Rate | 40Gbps |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Cable Length | 20m (65.62ft) |
| Jacket Material | OFNP |
| Temperature | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | 10G/40Gigabit Ethernet or Fibre Channel |
Cable Construction and Routing
This assembly uses OFNP jacket, minimum bend radius 30mm. 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.
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 minimum bend radius is 30mm; the jacket material is OFNP.
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include 10G/40Gigabit Ethernet or Fibre Channel. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Integrated Optical Assembly
The optical engines and fiber are permanently integrated into this AOC. There are no detachable optical modules to clean or exchange. Handle the complete assembly by its connector housings and cable, and keep both ends matched to the same interface specification.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
Choose (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M when the measured managed path justifies 20m (66ft), not simply to leave a large spare coil. Additional reach can simplify adjacent-rack routing, yet unused cable still needs bend-safe storage and ventilation clearance. Keep identification visible so this extended version is not confused with shorter spares. Within this family, (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-15M is shorter at 15m (49ft), while (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-25M is the next longer choice at 25m (82ft); comparing those two boundaries helps avoid both tension and unnecessary slack.
Position Within the Length Range
(Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M occupies the middle of this family between (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-15M at 15m (49ft) and (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-25M at 25m (82ft). It adds 5m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 5m. Measure the managed path and choose this version when its reach is sufficient without creating the slack associated with the longer assembly.
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.
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. Where supported by the host, receive activity and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original Dell cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Dell (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M.
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.
Can excess cable be folded into a compact bundle?
No. Use a supported, bend-safe service loop and observe the listed minimum bend radius. Do not crease the cable or tighten ties around the connector boots.
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.
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 (Force10) CBL-QSFP-40GE-20M associated with 20m (66ft) throughout the order and receiving record.
Shipping and Lead Time
Standard configurations normally ship within one to three working days, while production quantities are confirmed with the order. 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.
