Lenovo 5M Passive SFP28 DAC — 25 Gbps SFP28 Cable (5 m / 16.40 ft) for High-Speed Network Connectivity

Experience a streamlined, high-performance interconnect solution with the Lenovo 5M Passive SFP28 DAC. This 5-meter copper DAC cable is purpose-built to deliver reliable, low-latency connections between devices that support SFP28 ports, making it an ideal choice for data centers, enterprise networks, and server-to-switch links. With a length of 5 meters (16.40 feet), it provides flexible deployment options for dense rack layouts while maintaining clean cabling and minimizing signal loss over short to mid-range distances. The passive design means no external power is required, simplifying deployments and reducing overall system complexity. Designed to work with Lenovo networking gear and other SFP28-enabled equipment, this DAC cable is a practical, cost-effective solution for achieving 25 Gbps performance where rapid, consistent throughput matters most.

• High-speed, reliable 25 Gbps SFP28 connectivity: The Lenovo 5M Passive SFP28 DAC supports up to 25 Gbit/s per link, enabling fast data transfer between servers, switches, and storage devices. Its passive copper construction minimizes latency without introducing active components, ensuring a straightforward, dependable connection that’s well-suited for short-range interconnects inside data centers and enterprise networks.
• Precisely engineered, 5-meter (16.40 ft) length: With a carefully specified 5 m (16.40 ft) length, this DAC cable provides flexible routing options in dense racks and close-proximity device configurations. The length is optimized to balance reach with signal integrity for typical data-center layouts, reducing cable clutter and making cable management simpler while preserving strong, stable links.
• Passive copper design for simplicity and efficiency: The passive nature of the cable means no external power is required, contributing to lower total cost of ownership and easier installation. This design minimizes heat generation and power consumption, while delivering consistent performance for 25 Gbps connections across compatible SFP28 ports. The result is a straightforward, plug-and-play solution that simplifies network upgrades and expansions.
• Designed for Lenovo and multi-vendor SFP28 ecosystems: While optimized for Lenovo networking devices, the Lenovo 5M Passive SFP28 DAC adheres to SFP28 standards, enabling compatibility with a wide range of SFP28-enabled equipment from different vendors. This flexibility is ideal for mixed-vendor data centers or environments where Lenovo gear coexists with other brands, helping you extend high-speed interconnects without compromise.
• Cost-effective, compact, and easy to deploy: As a short-reach, high-bandwidth solution, this DAC cable minimizes installation time and total cabling costs compared to longer fiber runs or more complex active connections. Its compact form factor and readiness for immediate use make it a practical upgrade path for servers, top-of-ran switches, and storage arrays requiring 25 Gbps links—with no additional hardware or power sources needed.

Technical Details of Lenovo 5M Passive SFP28 DAC

• Cable type: Passive SFP28 copper DAC
• Length: 5 meters (16.40 feet)
• Data rate: Up to 25 Gbps per link
• Connectors: SFP28 to SFP28
• Material: Copper-based copper interconnect
• Compatibility: Designed for Lenovo networking devices and other SFP28-enabled equipment
• Compliance: MSA-compliant SFP28 DAC cable
• Power: Passive (no external power required)

How to Install Lenovo 5M Passive SFP28 DAC

• Power down the devices or verify that both devices support hot-swapping of SFP28 modules before installation. This helps prevent any potential damage to ports during seat-and-click insertion.
• Identify the two devices you will interconnect (for example, a server and a top-of-rack switch) and locate the SFP28 ports that will be linked by the DAC cable.
• Gently align the first end of the 5M Passive SFP28 DAC with the SFP28 port, ensuring the connector is oriented correctly. Do not force the module; seating should be smooth and firm.
• Insert the opposite end of the DAC into the corresponding SFP28 port on the second device, using the same careful alignment to ensure proper engagement.
• Secure both devices and power them up (if required). Check the link status LEDs on both devices to confirm a solid connection. If a link is not established, reseat the connectors and verify that both ports are configured for 25 Gbps operation and are enabled in the device BIOS or firmware settings.
• Run basic connectivity tests and throughput measurements to verify performance. This may include loopback tests, NIC traffic tests, or switch-to-switch throughput checks, depending on your network design. If issues persist, verify compatibility and firmware versions for SFP28 support and consult vendor documentation.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the Lenovo 5M Passive SFP28 DAC used for?

  A: It is a high-speed 25 Gbps SFP28 copper DAC cable designed to connect devices with SFP28 ports over a 5-meter distance. It is ideal for short-range, high-bandwidth interconnects in data centers and enterprise networks, delivering quick deployment and reliable performance without external power or complex setup.

• Q: Is it compatible with non-Lenovo devices?

  A: Yes. SFP28 DAC cables follow standard SFP28 interfaces and are typically compatible with other vendors' devices that support 25 Gbps operation. Always verify port speed, vendor compatibility lists, and firmware requirements before deployment.

• Q: Do passive DAC cables require external power?

  A: No. Passive SFP28 DAC cables derive power from the connected devices and do not require a separate power source, which simplifies installation and reduces cabling needs.

• Q: How long is the Lenovo 5M Passive SFP28 DAC?

  A: The cable length is 5 meters, which is approximately 16.40 feet, making it suitable for many mid-range interconnect scenarios within data centers and office server rooms.

• Q: What should I do if I don’t see a link after installation?

  A: Confirm that both devices are configured for 25 Gbps operation and that the SFP28 ports are enabled. Reseat the cable ends to ensure proper contact, and check for compatibility with firmware versions. If necessary, test with alternate SFP28 ports or devices to isolate the issue.