Dell DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M Compatible 400G QSFP-DD 8 x 50G PAM4 Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 0.5m (2ft)
This DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M compatible cable gives project teams a defined 400G connection in 0.5m (2ft), with QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD and Dell host compatibility. Rather than treating all lengths as interchangeable, the page keeps this order code separate and links the other verified lengths for accurate schedules, labels and delivery checks.
OEM Part Number: DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5MHT Part Number: DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Dell DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M
- 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD
- Fixed length and part number: 0.5m (2ft), DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M
- Cable construction: Passive Twinax
- Conductor specification: 30AWG
- Maximum power consumption: 0.1W Per End
- Minimum bend radius: 33mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M |
|---|---|
| Dell Compatible | DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD |
| Max. Data Rate | 400Gbps |
| Media | Copper |
| Cable Type | Passive Twinax |
| Cable Length | 0.5m (2ft) |
| Wire AWG | 30AWG |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 33mm |
| Max. Power Consumption | 0.1W Per End |
| Jacket Material | PET |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Modulation Format | 8x 50Gbps PAM4 |
| Application | 400G Ethernet |
| Protocols | IEEE 802.3cd, QSFP-DD MSA, CMIS 4.0 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 8x 50Gbps 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.
Position Within the Length Range
DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M is the shortest of 6 verified length options in this family. It is the preferred choice when the port positions are close and cable slack must be kept to a minimum. The next option is DAC-Q56DD-400G-1M at 1m (3ft), adding 0.5m for a less direct routing path; selecting it unnecessarily would leave more cable to dress.
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 30AWG; the minimum bend radius is 33mm; the stated power consumption is 0.1W Per End; the jacket material is PET.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 0.1W 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 30AWG conductors, PET jacket, minimum bend radius 33mm. 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 400G Ethernet. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3cd, QSFP-DD MSA, CMIS 4.0. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
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.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
The 0.5m (2ft) length is suited to closely aligned ports where excessive slack would obstruct airflow or complicate dressing. Measure the actual port-to-port path before choosing DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M; even a short assembly must retain the specified bend radius and should never be pulled tight behind the equipment.
Dell 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. Where supported by the host, link stability and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original Dell cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Dell DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M.
Does this order code cover multiple lengths?
No. DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M refers here to 0.5m (2ft). Every other verified length has a separate part number and page in the length list.
Are separate transceivers or patch leads required?
No. This is one complete direct-attach assembly. The ends are not detachable modules and should not be separated from the cable.
Can excess cable be folded into a compact bundle?
No. Use a supported, bend-safe service loop and observe the listed minimum bend radius. Do not crease the cable or tighten ties around the connector boots.
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. This page’s fixed configuration is 0.5m (2ft); another length must be quoted under its corresponding part number.
Shipping and Lead Time
Available stock is generally dispatched within one to three working days after order confirmation, with production lead times advised for larger quantities. 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. Standard protective packing is used by default, with project documentation arranged when requested.
