Fortinet FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ to 4 x 25G SFP28 NRZ Passive Copper Breakout Cable, 5m (16ft)
This FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5 compatible cable gives project teams a defined 100G connection in 5m (16ft), with QSFP28 to SFP28 and Fortinet 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: FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5HT Part Number: FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Fortinet FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to SFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5
- Cable construction: Passive Twinax
- Conductor specification: 26AWG
- Maximum power consumption: ≤0.125W
- Minimum bend radius: 70mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5 |
|---|---|
| Fortinet Compatible | FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to SFP28 |
| Max Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Cable Type | Passive Twinax |
| Cable Length | 5m (16ft) |
| Wire AWG | 26AWG |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 70mm |
| Power Consumption | ≤0.125W |
| Power Supply | 3.3V |
| MTBF | =50 Million Hours |
| Jacket Material | PVC (OFNR) |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Modulation Format | QSFP28-4x 25G-NRZ SFP28-1x 25G-NRZ |
| Media | Copper |
| Application | 100G to 4x 25G Ethernet, Data Centers |
| Protocols | IEEE 802.3, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is QSFP28-4x 25G-NRZ SFP28-1x 25G-NRZ. 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.
Cable Construction and Routing
This assembly uses 26AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 70mm. 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 100G to 4x 25G Ethernet, Data Centers. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP28 to SFP28 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.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
The 5m (16ft) length gives FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5 more freedom for adjacent-rack and row-end deployments. Longer copper runs need particular attention to routing weight and bend control; the DAC specification and host support must still match the intended link.
Position Within the Length Range
FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5 is the longest of 8 verified length options in this family. Compared with FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-3.5 at 3.5m (11ft), it provides 1.5m 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 70mm; the stated power consumption is ≤0.125W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is ≤0.125W. 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.
Fortinet 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. Both connectors are examined before the operating test, which includes link stability and diagnostic indications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original Fortinet cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Fortinet FN-CABLE-QSFP28-4SFP28-5.
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.
Will any matching connector operate at the same speed?
Not necessarily. Both hosts must support the stated rate, identification, lane mapping and any required breakout configuration; mechanical compatibility alone is insufficient.
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 5m (16ft); another length must be quoted under its corresponding part number.
Shipping and Lead Time
Standard configurations normally ship within one to three working days, while production quantities are confirmed with the order. Delivery can be arranged by courier, air freight or sea freight, and goods may instead be handed to an appointed forwarder or shipped on the customer’s courier account.
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. Neutral packaging and customer-specific packing documentation are available on request.
