MFA7A20-C001NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C001 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ to 2 x 50G QSFP28 2 x 25G NRZ Ethernet Active Optical Breakout Cable, 1m (3ft)
The MFA7A20-C001 cable on this page is the 1m (3ft) version for NVIDIA/Mellanox hosts requiring 100G operation. Its QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 AOC construction reduces the connection to one factory-terminated assembly. Related lengths, brand cross-references and rack-integration notes support a precise high-density deployment.
OEM Part Number: MFA7A20-C001HT Part Number: MFA7A20-C001
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C001
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 1m (3ft), MFA7A20-C001
- Cable construction: Breakout AOC
- Maximum power consumption: 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End)
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA7A20-C001 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Ethernet Compatible | MFA7A20-C001 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 |
| Max. Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Cable Length | 1m (3ft) |
| Cable Type | Breakout AOC |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Transmitter Type | VSCEL |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Max. Power Consumption | 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End) |
| Modulation Format | 4x 25G-NRZ to 2x 25G-NRZ |
| CDR (Clock and Data Recovery) | TX & RX Built-in CDR |
| Jacket Material | OFNP |
| DDM/DOM | Supported |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | QSFP28 Electrical MSA, SFF-8636, SFF-8665 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 4x 25G-NRZ to 2x 25G-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.
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 determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP28 Electrical MSA, SFF-8636, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 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.
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.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
At 1m (3ft), MFA7A20-C001 is a practical choice for direct connections within one rack. Route the cable along the intended management path rather than pulling it diagonally across adjacent connectors, and leave enough clearance for insertion, removal and front-panel airflow.
Position Within the Length Range
MFA7A20-C001 is the shortest of 10 verified length options in this family. It is the preferred choice when the port positions are close and cable slack must be kept to a minimum. The next option is MFA7A20-C003 at 3m (10ft), adding 2m for a less direct routing path; selecting it unnecessarily would leave more cable to dress.
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 (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End); the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End). 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.
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. Volume orders can include customer references on the labels and carton list.
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 1m (3ft); 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. Both connectors are examined before the operating test, which includes receive activity and diagnostic indications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original NVIDIA/Mellanox cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C001.
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.
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.
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. 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.
