NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C003 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ to 2 x 50G QSFP28 2 x 25G NRZ Ethernet Active Optical Breakout Cable, 3m (10ft)
The MFA7A20-C003 compatible AOC cable provides 100G connectivity for NVIDIA/Mellanox equipment over a fixed 3m (10ft) assembly. Both ends use the stated QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 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: MFA7A20-C003HT Part Number: MFA7A20-C003
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C003
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), MFA7A20-C003
- Cable construction: Breakout AOC
- Maximum power consumption: 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End)
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA7A20-C003 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Ethernet Compatible | MFA7A20-C003 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 |
| Max. Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Cable Length | 3m (10ft) |
| Cable Type | Breakout AOC |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Transmitter Type | VSCEL |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Max. Power Consumption | 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End) |
| Modulation Format | 4x 25G-NRZ to 2x 25G-NRZ |
| CDR (Clock and Data Recovery) | TX & RX Built-in CDR |
| Jacket Material | OFNP |
| DDM/DOM | Supported |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | QSFP28 Electrical MSA, SFF-8636, SFF-8665 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 4x 25G-NRZ to 2x 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 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G 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 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.
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP28 Electrical MSA, SFF-8636, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 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.
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
At 3m (10ft), this assembly can bridge non-aligned ports or adjacent racks while remaining a single direct-attach link. Support longer horizontal runs with suitable cable management and preserve space for cooling and future maintenance.
Position Within the Length Range
MFA7A20-C003 occupies the middle of this family between MFA7A20-C001 at 1m (3ft) and MFA7A20-C005 at 5m (16ft). It adds 2m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 2m. 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 minimum bend radius is 30mm; the stated power consumption is 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End); the jacket material is OFNP.
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. Volume orders can include customer references on the labels and carton list.
NVIDIA/Mellanox 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. The check includes receive activity and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original NVIDIA/Mellanox cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C003.
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. MFA7A20-C003 refers here to 3m (10ft). 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. Quantity and any labeling instructions should be attached specifically to MFA7A20-C003.
Shipping and Lead Time
Standard configurations normally ship within one to three working days, while production quantities are confirmed with the order. 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.
