NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E03 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Infiniband EDR Active Optical Cable, 3m (10ft)
For project documentation, NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E03 and this cable’s physical length should be recorded together. The product described here is a 3m (10ft) AOC assembly for 100G links, using QSFP28 to QSFP28. Its OEM cross-reference, HT part number, specification table and packing options support traceable ordering and installation records.
OEM Part Number: MFA1A00-E03HT Part Number: MFA1A00-E03
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA1A00-E03
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), MFA1A00-E03
- 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-E03 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Infiniband Compatible | MFA1A00-E003 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to QSFP28 |
| Max Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Cable Length | 3m (10ft) |
| 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.
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
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
MFA1A00-E03 occupies the middle of this family between MFA1A00-E002 at 2m (7ft) and MFA1A00-E005 at 5m (16ft). It adds 1m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 2m. 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.
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.
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-E03.
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. Keep MFA1A00-E03 associated with 3m (10ft) throughout the order and receiving record.
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. Standard protective packing is used by default, with project documentation arranged when requested.
