Arista Networks C-Q200-4S50-3M Compatible 200G QSFP56 4 x 50G PAM4 to 4 x 50G SFP56 50G PAM4 Passive Copper Breakout Cable, 3m (10ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to Arista Networks C-Q200-4S50-3M
• 200G connectivity at 200Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP56 to 4x SFP56
• Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), C-Q200-4S50-3M
• Cable construction: Passive Breakout DAC
• Conductor specification: 26AWG
• Maximum power consumption: 0.1W (QSFP56 End)0.1W (SFP56 Per End)
• Minimum bend radius: 35mm

Specifications

Signal and Lane Configuration

The listed modulation format is QSFP56-4x 50G-PAM4SFP56-50G-PAM4. Both host interfaces must be configured for the same aggregate rate and lane arrangement. A connector that fits mechanically does not by itself guarantee that the remote port supports this encoding or breakout mode.

Length Selection and Installation Planning

At 3m (10ft), this assembly can bridge non-aligned ports or adjacent racks while remaining a single direct-attach link. Support longer horizontal runs with suitable cable management and preserve space for cooling and future maintenance.

Position Within the Length Range

C-Q200-4S50-3M is the longest of 4 verified length options in this family. Compared with C-Q200-4S50-2M at 2m (7ft), it provides 1m 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.

Project Documentation and Cable Identification

Large deployments are easier to audit when the order code, physical length and endpoint record agree. Keep the OEM reference in the compatibility document and use the HT part number on the packing list. Where several lengths arrive together, labels and carton groups can be arranged by rack or port plan so installers do not have to identify cables by appearance alone. For this assembly, the listed conductor specification is 26AWG; the minimum bend radius is 35mm; the stated power consumption is 0.1W (QSFP56 End)0.1W (SFP56 Per End); the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is 0.1W (QSFP56 End)0.1W (SFP56 Per End). 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.

Cable Construction and Routing

This assembly uses 26AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 35mm. 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-8661, SFF-8432, IEEE 802.3bs-200GAUI-4, IEEE802.3cd-50GAUI-1, SFP-8636, SFF-8472. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

Breakout Port Mapping

The QSFP56 to 4x SFP56 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.

Passive Copper Operation

A passive DAC has no separate optical conversion stage. Its low-power, low-latency operation is useful for short equipment links, but the assembly must remain within the length and signaling mode accepted by both hosts.

Arista Networks Compatibility and Factory Testing

Factory verification links the compatibility identity to the exact physical assembly described on this page. Identification, connector condition and live link behavior are checked before packing. Customers can submit equipment and firmware details with the project documentation for a more specific pre-order compatibility review. The check includes link stability and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ordering Information

Use the listed HT part number for ordering and retain the OEM reference as the host-compatibility cross-reference. Send quantities by length, along with any rack-based packing or label instructions. If the project has mixed equipment, include the host model for each group rather than relying only on the aggregate cable rate. Keep C-Q200-4S50-3M associated with 3m (10ft) throughout the order and receiving record.

Shipping and Lead Time

Standard configurations normally ship within one to three working days, while production quantities are confirmed with the order. International express, air cargo and sea freight can be selected according to destination and carton volume; customer courier accounts and nominated forwarders are also accepted.

Quality Assurance and Packaging

Inspection and link testing are completed before the cable enters its protective packaging. Project orders can be packed and labelled by length, rack or customer reference, with packing documentation that makes received quantities straightforward to reconcile against the installation schedule. Volume orders can include customer references on the labels and carton list.