Cisco QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M Compatible 40G QSFP+ to 4 x 10G SFP+ Passive Copper Breakout Cable, 5m (16ft)

The QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M compatible DAC cable provides 40G connectivity for Cisco equipment over a fixed 5m (16ft) assembly. Both ends use the stated QSFP+ to 4 SFP+ 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: QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5MHT Part Number: QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Cisco QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M
- 40G connectivity at 40Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP+ to 4 SFP+
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M
- Conductor specification: 26AWG
- Minimum bend radius: 26mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M |
|---|---|
| Cisco Compatible | QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Connector Type | QSFP+ to 4 SFP+ |
| Max Data Rate | 40Gbps |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 26mm |
| Wire AWG | 26AWG |
| Cable Length | 5m(16.4ft) |
| Jacket Material | PVC (OFNR) |
| Temperature | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | SFF-8436, SFF-8431 and QSFP+ MSA |
Cable Construction and Routing
This assembly uses 26AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 26mm. 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.
Position Within the Length Range
QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M occupies the middle of this family between QSFP-4SFP10G-CU4M at 4m (13ft) and QSFP-4SFP10G-CU7M at 7m (23ft). It adds 1m 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 listed conductor specification is 26AWG; the minimum bend radius is 26mm; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include SFF-8436, SFF-8431 and QSFP+ MSA. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP+ to 4 SFP+ 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 QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M 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.
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.
Cisco 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 link stability and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original Cisco cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Cisco QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M.
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.
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. QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M refers here to 5m (16ft). Every other verified length has a separate part number and page in the length list.
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 5m (16ft); 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. Delivery can be arranged by courier, air freight or sea freight, and goods may instead be handed to an appointed forwarder or shipped on the customer’s courier account.
