MFA1A00-E03NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E03 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Infiniband EDR Active Optical Cable, 3m (10ft)
This 3m (10ft) MFA1A00-E03 compatible assembly provides 100G AOC connectivity for NVIDIA/Mellanox interfaces in a QSFP28 to QSFP28 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: MFA1A00-E03HT Part Number: MFA1A00-E03
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E03
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), MFA1A00-E03
- Cable construction: Optical Cable
- Maximum power consumption: <2.2W
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA1A00-E03 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Infiniband Compatible | MFA1A00-E003 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to QSFP28 |
| Max Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Cable Length | 3m (10ft) |
| Jacket Material | OFNP |
| Cable Type | Optical Cable |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Transmitter Type | VCSEL |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Power Consumption | <2.2W |
| MTBF | ≈50 Million Hours |
| Power supply | 3.3V |
| Modulation Format | NRZ |
| DDM/DOM | Supported |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | IEEE 802.3 bm, SFF-8665 |
| CDR (Clock and Data Recovery) | TX & RX Built-in CDR |
| Modulation Format | 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 25G-NRZ |
| Application | InfiniBand EDR |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is NRZ. 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.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
At 3m (10ft), this assembly can bridge non-aligned ports or adjacent racks while remaining a single direct-attach link. Support longer horizontal runs with suitable cable management and preserve space for cooling and future maintenance.
Position Within the Length Range
MFA1A00-E03 occupies the middle of this family between MFA1A00-E002 at 2m (7ft) and MFA1A00-E005 at 5m (16ft). 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.
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 minimum bend radius is 30mm; the stated power consumption is <2.2W; the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is <2.2W. 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.
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is InfiniBand EDR. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3 bm, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
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.
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. Neutral packaging and customer-specific packing documentation are available on request.
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 3m (10ft); another length must be quoted under its corresponding part number.
NVIDIA/Mellanox 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 receive activity and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original NVIDIA/Mellanox cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E03.
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.
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.
Shipping and Lead Time
Available stock is normally prepared for dispatch within one to three working days, while larger production requirements are scheduled with the order. Worldwide courier services are available, with air or sea freight for consolidated shipments; freight-collect delivery and coordination with a customer’s logistics provider can be arranged.
