40G QSFP+ Active Optical Cable (AOC) Specifications
| Link role | A same-speed QSFP+ optical link for cable runs that need lower cable bulk and immunity to electromagnetic interference. |
|---|---|
| Endpoint form factor | QSFP+ at both cable ends |
| Aggregate data rate | 40G |
| Lane / channel detail | 40G aggregate link |
| Length guidance | Up to 30 m listed |
| Power approach | Low power consumption (<= 1.5 W) |
| Standards / management | Electrical interface compliant to SFF-8436 |
| Cable construction | Integrated multimode optical cable assembly |
| Operating temperature | 0C to +70C |
| Configuration status | Standard and custom options must be confirmed in the quotation and approved BOM |
Search terminology for this configuration includes 40G AOC cable, QSFP+ AOC, 40G active optical cable, QSFP+ AOC data center. These phrases describe the same purchase task only when the endpoint form factor, link mode, and ordered length match this page.
Standards context: SNIA SFF technology affiliates · Ethernet Alliance technology overview.
When to Use This 40G AOC
- Use it for QSFP+ links where up to 30 m listed and an integrated optical assembly fit the route plan.
- Choose AOC for inter-rack routing, tighter cable-management paths, or environments where copper EMI exposure is undesirable.
- Confirm the host accepts the cable coding and that the installed bend path protects the optical cable body.
Compatibility and Acceptance Checklist
- Confirm the connector at each end: QSFP+.
- Confirm the required aggregate rate and host lane mode: 40G aggregate link.
- Measure the routed path, not the straight-line rack distance; the current datasheet states up to 30 m listed.
- Send switch/NIC part numbers and firmware versions for coding review; no platform-specific compatibility is assumed without validation.
- Protect the optical cable bend path and avoid loading the connector during service-loop routing.
- Specify commercial or industrial temperature requirements and the requested jacket/label/packaging details.
- At receipt, verify labels and part numbers, inspect latches and cable jackets, then test the complete link at the intended data rate.
Cable Specs & Operating Conditions
| Cable Length (m) | Tolerance (cm) |
|---|---|
| < 1.0 | +5 / -0 |
| 1.0 ~ 4.5 | +15 / -0 |
| 5.0 ~ 14.5 | +30 / -0 |
| >= 15.0 | +2% / -0 |
Ordering Options
| Part Number | Description | Length |
|---|---|---|
| BWN-AOC-QSFP+-40G-01M | 40G QSFP+ Active Optical Cable | 1 m |
| BWN-AOC-QSFP+-40G-03M | 40G QSFP+ Active Optical Cable | 3 m |
| BWN-AOC-QSFP+-40G-05M | 40G QSFP+ Active Optical Cable | 5 m |
| BWN-AOC-QSFP+-40G-10M | 40G QSFP+ Active Optical Cable | 10 m |
| BWN-AOC-QSFP+-40G-15M | 40G QSFP+ Active Optical Cable | 15 m |
| BWN-AOC-QSFP+-40G-20M | 40G QSFP+ Active Optical Cable | 20 m |
| BWN-AOC-QSFP+-40G-30M | 40G QSFP+ Active Optical Cable | 30 m |
| BWN-AOC-QSFP+-40G-xxM | 40G QSFP+ Active Optical Cable | Custom |
Common Procurement Objections
Will it work in my switch or NIC?
Form factor and standards alignment are necessary but not sufficient. Send the exact host model, firmware, port mode, length, and coding requirement for a compatibility review.
Which length should I order?
The current datasheet lists up to 30 m listed. Measure the routed path, include a controlled service loop, and avoid ordering unnecessary slack.
Should I use DAC instead?
Use passive DAC for shorter in-rack runs where minimum cable power is the priority. Use separate transceivers and fiber when a field-replaceable or patch-panel-based optical channel is required.
Can BWNFiber customize the assembly?
Datasheet ordering tables include standard and/or custom entries. Submit the endpoint, length, label, jacket, coding, temperature, packaging, and quantity requirements for feasibility confirmation.
Related High-Speed Cable Options
Request a Configuration Review
Send endpoint models, firmware, port mode, length, quantity, temperature, labeling, packaging, and acceptance requirements. BWNFiber can return a proposed cable code and BOM for review.
