Lenovo 5M Passive QSFP28 DAC — 100 Gbps Direct Attach Copper Cable

Experience a streamlined, high-performance connection for data centers and enterprise networks with the Lenovo 5M Passive QSFP28 DAC. This 5-meter (16.40 ft) direct attach copper cable delivers reliable, high-speed 100 Gbit/s connectivity between QSFP28-enabled devices, making it ideal for servers, switches, and storage arrays in dense fabrics. The passive copper design minimizes power consumption and heat compared with active optics on short-reach links, while delivering dependable, low-latency interswitch connectivity across your Lenovo and compatible gear. Whether you’re building a new leaf-spine fabric or upgrading an existing rack, this DAC cable provides a simple, cost-effective solution for robust data center interconnects.

• Length for flexible deployment: The Lenovo 5M Passive QSFP28 DAC offers a generous 5-meter (16.40 ft) cable length, allowing you to arrange devices across racks and cabinets without forcing equipment to sit too close together. This length supports versatile data center layouts, minimizes the need for additional cross-rack runs, and helps maintain tidy cable management in high-density environments. The passive DAC design also reduces power draw, contributing to lower total cost of ownership in busy data centers.
• High-speed 100 Gbps performance: Designed to deliver up to 100 Gbit/s of raw data throughput on QSFP28 ports, this DAC enables rapid interconnects between servers, top-of-rack switches, and storage systems. Short-reach connections benefit from the low-latency characteristics of direct attach copper, helping to optimize leaf-spine fabrics and accelerate virtualization, AI workloads, and high-performance computing tasks that demand quick, reliable data movement.
• QSFP28 cable type for precise requirements: This is a Direct Attach Copper (DAC) solution with QSFP28 connectors on both ends. It’s engineered for dense data-center deployments where power efficiency and high port density matter. The copper interface provides a budget-friendly option with excellent signal integrity over short distances, making it a practical choice for Lenovo network devices and other QSFP28-enabled equipment in enterprise networks.
• Plug-and-play simplicity: The cable uses a passive design with no external power or active electronics. Simply align the QSFP28 connectors with the corresponding ports, insert until the latches click, and secure the cable to minimize strain. This straightforward, tool-free installation accelerates deployment timelines and reduces downtime, while its robust construction supports repeated insertions for ongoing maintenance and scaling in growing data centers.
• Lenovo reliability and compatibility: Built to Lenovo specifications, this 5M Passive QSFP28 DAC is designed to work seamlessly with Lenovo network devices and other QSFP28-compatible equipment. Its precision manufacturing and high-quality copper conductors help maintain signal integrity over the full 5-meter span, even in crowded racks and complex topologies. It’s a reliable, cost-effective interconnect for data centers prioritizing performance, reliability, and total cost of ownership.

Technical Details of Lenovo 5M Passive QSFP28 DAC

• Cable type: Direct Attach Copper (DAC), passive design for short-reach interconnects
• Length: 5 m (16.40 ft)
• Speed: Up to 100 Gbit/s
• Connectors: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Conductor material: Copper; designed for low-latency, high-bandwidth interconnects

How to install Lenovo 5M Passive QSFP28 DAC

Follow these steps to ensure a reliable, high-performance connection:

• Power down devices if required by your data center's change-management policies; otherwise, handle interconnects following your equipment guidelines for safe handling.
• Inspect both QSFP28 connectors for dust or damage. Hold by the edges and avoid touching contact surfaces to preserve signal integrity.
• Align the connectors with their ports and insert firmly until the latches engage. Do not force the connectors, and ensure they are fully seated for a solid link.
• Route the cable to maintain proper bend radius and to prevent strain on the connectors. Use cable ties or clips to secure the run and minimize movement that could loosen connections over time.
• Power on devices and verify the link status via LEDs or the management interface. Confirm the connection operates at the expected 100 Gbps speed and monitor for any link flaps or errors.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the length of the Lenovo 5M Passive QSFP28 DAC? The cable is 5 meters long (16.40 feet), suitable for mid-range interconnects in data centers where devices are spread across adjacent racks.
• What data rate does it support? It supports up to 100 Gbit/s on QSFP28 ports for short-reach interconnects in modern data-center fabrics.
• Is this cable passive or active? It is a passive Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cable with no external power required.
• Is it compatible with Lenovo devices? Yes, it is designed for Lenovo network equipment and broadly compatible with QSFP28-enabled devices that follow standard specifications.
• How should I install and handle this cable? Use care during installation: align connectors, avoid bending, secure cables, and follow your equipment's guidelines for hot-swapping or maintenance windows.