HPE H3C JG331A Compatible 40G QSFP+ to 4 x 10G SFP+ Passive Copper Breakout Cable, 5m (16ft)

This 5m (16ft) JG331A compatible assembly provides 40G DAC connectivity for HPE H3C interfaces in a QSFP+ to 4 SFP+ configuration. It is supplied as one complete cable, with specifications and installation guidance that help high-density racks balance reach, connector access and airflow while retaining the exact OEM reference required by the host.
OEM Part Number: JG331AHT Part Number: JG331A
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to HPE H3C JG331A
- 40G connectivity at 40Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP+ to 4 SFP+
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), JG331A
- Conductor specification: 26AWG
- Minimum bend radius: 26mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | JG331A |
|---|---|
| HPE H3C Compatible | JG331A |
| 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.
High-Density Rack Integration
In a densely populated rack, connector access and airflow are part of the link design. Choose the shortest length that follows the managed path comfortably, avoid tight bundles around the connector housings and preserve room for latch operation. Where power consumption is listed, include every populated interface in the host thermal budget rather than assessing a single cable in isolation. 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 JG331A 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.
Position Within the Length Range
JG331A is the longest of 3 verified length options in this family. Compared with JG330A at 3m (10ft), it provides 2m of additional reach for a longer vertical drop, a wider rack or an adjacent-cabinet route. Confirm that the complete path requires this length, because unused slack still needs supported, bend-safe storage.
Quality Assurance and Packaging
Each assembly receives a visual connector inspection and functional link check before it is coiled and protected. Packaging is selected to avoid compressing the cable into a tight bundle, and optional rack-based labels help maintain an orderly installation when many identical interfaces are populated together. Standard protective packing is used by default, with project documentation arranged when requested.
Ordering Information
Provide the exact part number, length, quantity and target interface density. For multi-rack projects, list each length separately and identify any preferred carton grouping. Host model and software information can be included for a compatibility review before production or dispatch. This page’s fixed configuration is 5m (16ft); another length must be quoted under its corresponding part number.
HPE H3C Compatibility and Factory Testing
The assembly is evaluated for host recognition and stable link operation, with diagnostics checked where the interface provides them. This approach verifies more than electrical or optical continuity. Exact platform and firmware information remains valuable in high-density deployments because port mode and qualification policy can differ within the same connector family. The check includes link stability and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original HPE H3C cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies HPE H3C JG331A.
Can excess cable be folded into a compact bundle?
No. Use a supported, bend-safe service loop and observe the listed minimum bend radius. Do not crease the cable or tighten ties around the connector boots.
Will any matching connector operate at the same speed?
Not necessarily. Both hosts must support the stated rate, identification, lane mapping and any required breakout configuration; mechanical compatibility alone is insufficient.
What details assist a compatibility review?
Provide the equipment manufacturer, model, port type, hardware revision and software release, together with the OEM reference, required length and quantity.
Shipping and Lead Time
Standard configurations normally ship within one to three working days, with production quantities confirmed at order stage. 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.
JG331A