AOC Cables

How to Choose an AOC Cable

An AOC is a fiber cable with the optics built into both ends. Use it when a run is too long for passive DAC but doesn't need separate transceivers and patch fiber.

1. DAC, AOC or transceivers?

Passive DAC covers in-rack runs up to about 3m, and less at 200G and above. AOC covers about 3m up to tens of meters: across a row, between racks, or anywhere copper is too heavy or the EMI is too high. If the run goes through patch panels or its length may change, use transceivers with structured fiber.

2. Match the port, not just the speed

SFP28 carries 25G, QSFP28 carries 100G, QSFP56 carries 200G and OSFP carries 400G. Both ends must match unless it's a breakout. Breakouts such as 400G OSFP to 2×200G QSFP56 or 200G to 2×100G link only after the switch port is split in its configuration.

3. Get the coding right

Switches read the EEPROM in each cable end to confirm vendor and part number. Cisco, Arista and Juniper can log warnings or disable a port when the coding doesn't match. Every cable here is coded for the platform named in its title and tested before it ships. If the two ends plug into different brands, ask us before ordering.

4. Measure the route, not the distance

An AOC is a fixed length and can't be re-terminated. Measure along the cable tray, including vertical drops and slack, and order the next length up.

AOC Part-Number Lookup

Find your OEM part number, then click through to the matching cable.

Running NVIDIA/Mellanox gear across generations? The NVIDIA/Mellanox Interconnect Compatibility Guide maps which cables fit which NICs and switches. Don't see your part number? Request a quote, since we can often source parts that aren't listed.