QSFP-H40G-AOCxM-BCC | Cisco Compatible QSFP to QSFP Active Optical Cable, 40GB, 40GBASE-AOC | 1 to 30M

Q: Will this work in place of the Cisco QSFP-H40G-AOC1M?
A: Yes. The QSFP-H40G-AOCxM-BCC is designed as a plug-and-play replacement for the Cisco QSFP-H40G-AOC series. It complies with the SFF-8436 QSFP+ MSA and 40GBASE-AOC specifications, delivering 40 Gbps over four 850nm optical lanes at the same form factor, pinout, and data rate as the Cisco original.

Q: Which Cisco platforms support this cable?
A: This cable works in any Cisco platform with QSFP+ ports that support 40 Gigabit Ethernet or 40G active optical interconnects. Compatibility is determined by the host port supporting SFF-8436 QSFP+ MSA and 40GBASE-AOC, not by specific platform model numbers. If your switch or router has a QSFP+ 40G port and supports active optical cables, this cable will function.

Q: How does the multi-mode fibre in this AOC differ from using separate transceivers and a fibre patch cable?
A: The OM3 multi-mode fibre is integrated into the cable assembly with VCSEL transmitters and receivers built into each connector end. This eliminates the need for separate transceiver modules and patch cables, reducing total link power consumption and simplifying deployment. The fibre is factory-terminated and sealed, preventing contamination and connector wear.

Q: Can I mix different lengths of this cable in the same switch stack or between switches?
A: Yes. Each cable is an independent point-to-point link. Length has no effect on protocol compatibility, data rate, or interoperability. A 1-metre cable and a 30-metre cable will both deliver 40 Gbps with identical electrical and optical characteristics at the QSFP+ interface. Signal integrity is maintained across all available lengths through active signal regeneration.

Q: What is the maximum bend radius for this cable, and does bending affect optical performance?
A: Active optical cables use internal multi-mode fibre, which requires a minimum bend radius to prevent signal loss or fibre damage. While the exact bend radius depends on cable diameter, typical OM3-based AOCs require a minimum dynamic bend radius of 10 times the cable diameter under tension and 20 times when stationary. Violating the bend radius can cause attenuation or permanent fibre fracture. Route cables with gentle curves, avoiding tight loops or sharp corners.