Arista CAB-D-2Q-400G-1M | 400G QSFP-DD to 2x 200G QSFP DAC Breakout Cable, 1M

Q: What does this cable do — how does the breakout work?
A: The CAB-D-2Q-400G-1M takes a single 400G QSFP-DD port and splits it into two independent 200G QSFP connections. This allows a single 400G switch port to serve two separate 200G devices, maximising port utilisation and reducing the number of switches needed in your data centre.

Q: Is this an active or passive cable?
A: This is a passive Direct Attach Copper (DAC) twinax cable. It requires no power beyond what the host ports supply, making it a low-latency, low-power alternative to active optical cables or discrete transceivers for short-reach (1-metre) interconnects.

Q: Which Arista switches are compatible with this cable?
A: This cable is designed for use with Arista 7000 Series platforms that feature QSFP-DD ports operating at 400G, such as the 7800R3 and 7060X5 series. The 200G QSFP ends are compatible with Arista and third-party switches supporting 200GBASE-CR4. Always verify compatibility with your specific platform firmware and port configuration.

Q: Can I use this cable with non-Arista equipment?
A: While this cable is coded and validated for Arista platforms, it may function in breakout mode on other vendors' QSFP-DD switches that support 400G to 2x200G breakout configurations. However, Arista does not guarantee interoperability outside its own validated hardware. For assured compatibility, use it within an Arista infrastructure.

Q: Can I purchase this cable in Australia through IP Trading?
A: Yes. IP Trading (iptrading.com.au) is an Australian B2B IT hardware reseller stocking genuine Arista networking products. You can order the CAB-D-2Q-400G-1M directly through our website for fast local fulfilment and reliable support.

Q: Why choose a DAC cable over an optical transceiver solution for 1-metre runs?
A: For distances of 1 metre or less, passive DAC cables offer significant advantages: lower cost, zero optical transceiver power consumption, ultra-low latency, and no need for separate transceivers on both ends. They are the preferred choice for top-of-rack and within-rack connections in high-density data centre environments.