MFA7U20-H003NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H003 Compatible 400G OSFP 8 x 50G PAM4 IHS/Finned Top to 4 x 100G QSFP56 2 x 50G PAM4 InfiniBand HDR Active Optical Breakout Cable, 3m (10ft)
This 3m (10ft) MFA7U20-H003 compatible assembly provides 400G AOC connectivity for NVIDIA/Mellanox interfaces in a OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56 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: MFA7U20-H003HT Part Number: MFA7U20-H003
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H003
- 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
- Interface configuration: OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56
- Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), MFA7U20-H003
- Cable construction: Breakout AOC
- Maximum power consumption: 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End)
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA7U20-H003 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox InfiniBandCompatible | MFA7U20-H003 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56 |
| Max. Data Rate | 400Gbps |
| Cable Length | 3m (10ft) |
| Cable Type | Breakout AOC |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Transmitter Type | VSCEL |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Max. Power Consumption | 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End) |
| Modulation Format | OSFP-8x 50G-PAM4QSFP56-2x 50G-PAM4 |
| 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 | IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0, SFF-8661, SFF-8636 |
| Application | 400G to 4x 100G |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is OSFP-8x 50G-PAM4QSFP56-2x 50G-PAM4. 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.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 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.
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 400G to 4x 100G. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0, SFF-8661, SFF-8636. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56 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 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
MFA7U20-H003 is the shortest of 6 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 MFA7U20-H005 at 5m (16ft), 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 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End); the jacket material is OFNP.
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. Quantity and any labeling instructions should be attached specifically to MFA7U20-H003.
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. Where supported by the host, receive activity and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original NVIDIA/Mellanox cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H003.
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. 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.
