NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E020 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Infiniband EDR Active Optical Cable, 20m (66ft)
The assembly listed here is the 20m (66ft) member of the MFA1A00-E020 product family for NVIDIA/Mellanox equipment. It provides 100G AOC connectivity through QSFP28 to QSFP28. Project teams can use the detailed table, related references and documentation-oriented packing information to keep each delivered cable aligned with its planned endpoints.
OEM Part Number: MFA1A00-E020HT Part Number: MFA1A00-E020
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E020
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 20m (66ft), MFA1A00-E020
- Cable construction: Optical Cable
- Maximum power consumption: <2.2W
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA1A00-E020 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Infiniband Compatible | MFA1A00-E020 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to QSFP28 |
| Max Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Cable Length | 20m (66ft) |
| Jacket Material | OFNP |
| Cable Type | Optical Cable |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Transmitter Type | VCSEL |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Power Consumption | <2.2W |
| MTBF | ≈50 Million Hours |
| Power supply | 3.3V |
| Modulation Format | NRZ |
| DDM/DOM | Supported |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | IEEE 802.3 bm, SFF-8665 |
| CDR (Clock and Data Recovery) | TX & RX Built-in CDR |
| Modulation Format | 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 25G-NRZ |
| Application | InfiniBand EDR |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 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 OFNP jacket, minimum bend radius 30mm. 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 InfiniBand EDR. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3 bm, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Integrated Optical Assembly
The optical engines and fiber are permanently integrated into this AOC. There are no detachable optical modules to clean or exchange. Handle the complete assembly by its connector housings and cable, and keep both ends matched to the same interface specification.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
Choose MFA1A00-E020 when the measured managed path justifies 20m (66ft), not simply to leave a large spare coil. Additional reach can simplify adjacent-rack routing, yet unused cable still needs bend-safe storage and ventilation clearance. Keep identification visible so this extended version is not confused with shorter spares. Within this family, MFA1A00-E015 is shorter at 15m (49ft), while MFA1A00-E030 is the next longer choice at 30m (98ft); comparing those two boundaries helps avoid both tension and unnecessary slack.
Position Within the Length Range
MFA1A00-E020 occupies the middle of this family between MFA1A00-E015 at 15m (49ft) and MFA1A00-E030 at 30m (98ft). It adds 5m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 10m. Measure the managed path and choose this version when its reach is sufficient without creating the slack associated with the longer assembly.
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 minimum bend radius is 30mm; the stated power consumption is <2.2W; the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is <2.2W. 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.
NVIDIA/Mellanox 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 receive activity and diagnostic indications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original NVIDIA/Mellanox cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E020.
How should an unused assembly be stored?
Protect both connector ends, keep the cable in a loose bend-safe coil and retain its part-number label so the length and compatibility identity remain traceable.
Can different brands be connected with the same assembly?
Only where both hosts explicitly support the complete interface and compatibility arrangement. Document each end and select the appropriate brand-specific product when required.
Does this order code cover multiple lengths?
No. MFA1A00-E020 refers here to 20m (66ft). Every other verified length has a separate part number and page in the length list.
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 20m (66ft); 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. 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.
