Cisco QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M Compatible 40G QSFP+ to 4 x 10G SFP+ Active Copper Breakout Cable, 9m (29ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to Cisco QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M
• 40G connectivity at 40Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP+ to SFP+
• Fixed length and part number: 9m (29ft), QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M
• Cable construction: Active Twinax
• Conductor specification: 26AWG
• Maximum power consumption: ≤1.8W
• Minimum bend radius: 44.5mm

Specifications

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is ≤1.8W. 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.

Position Within the Length Range

QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M is the longest of 5 verified length options in this family. Compared with QSFP-4 x 10G-AC7M at 7m (23ft), 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.

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 44.5mm; the stated power consumption is ≤1.8W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).

Cable Construction and Routing

This assembly uses 26AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 44.5mm. 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 SFF-8431, SFF-8432, SFF-8472 SFP+ MSA, SFF-8436 QSFP+ MSA. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

Breakout Port Mapping

The QSFP+ to 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.

Length Selection and Installation Planning

This 9m (29ft) assembly is intended for routes that shorter members of the same family cannot serve comfortably. Before ordering, document the actual pathway and the space available for service access. During installation, secure the complete copper assembly and both connector housings without compressing it into an undersized bundle or leaving its weight suspended from the ports. The next shorter verified assembly is QSFP-4 x 10G-AC7M at 7m (23ft), which is the better comparison when the managed route leaves substantial unused cable.

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 9m (29ft); another length must be quoted under its corresponding part number.

Cisco 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 link stability and diagnostic indications.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.