NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H020 Compatible 400G OSFP 8 x 50G PAM4 IHS/Finned Top to 4 x 100G QSFP56 2 x 50G PAM4 InfiniBand HDR Active Optical Breakout Cable, 20m (66ft)
For a direct equipment connection requiring NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H020, this page supplies the 20m (66ft) version with OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56. The cable supports 400G 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: MFA7U20-H020HT Part Number: MFA7U20-H020
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H020
- 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
- Interface configuration: OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56
- Fixed length and part number: 20m (66ft), MFA7U20-H020
- Cable construction: Breakout AOC
- Maximum power consumption: 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End)
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA7U20-H020 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox InfiniBandCompatible | MFA7U20-H020 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56 |
| Max. Data Rate | 400Gbps |
| Cable Length | 20m (66ft) |
| Cable Type | Breakout AOC |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Transmitter Type | VSCEL |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Max. Power Consumption | 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End) |
| Modulation Format | OSFP-8x 50G-PAM4QSFP56-2x 50G-PAM4 |
| 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 | IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0, SFF-8661, SFF-8636 |
| Application | 400G to 4x 100G |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is OSFP-8x 50G-PAM4QSFP56-2x 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.
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is 400G to 4x 100G. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0, SFF-8661, SFF-8636. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56 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
Extended reach changes the installation checks for MFA7U20-H020. Confirm that 20m (66ft) follows the intended route without tension, then verify that intermediate supports do not squeeze the jacket or hide the connectors behind adjacent cables. Both hosts must still match the stated interface and lane configuration. Within this family, MFA7U20-H015 is shorter at 15m (49ft), while MFA7U20-H030 is the next longer choice at 30m (98ft); comparing those two boundaries helps avoid both tension and unnecessary slack.
Position Within the Length Range
MFA7U20-H020 occupies the middle of this family between MFA7U20-H015 at 15m (49ft) and MFA7U20-H030 at 30m (98ft). It adds 5m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 10m. 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 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End); the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 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.
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.
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. Where supported by the host, receive activity and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original NVIDIA/Mellanox cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H020.
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. MFA7U20-H020 refers here to 20m (66ft). 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 MFA7U20-H020 associated with 20m (66ft) 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.
