NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C050 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ to 2 x 50G QSFP28 2 x 25G NRZ Ethernet Active Optical Breakout Cable, 50m (164ft)
This MFA7A20-C050 compatible cable gives project teams a defined 100G connection in 50m (164ft), with QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 and NVIDIA/Mellanox 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: MFA7A20-C050HT Part Number: MFA7A20-C050
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C050
- 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28
- Fixed length and part number: 50m (164ft), MFA7A20-C050
- Cable construction: Breakout AOC
- Maximum power consumption: 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End)
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA7A20-C050 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox Ethernet Compatible | MFA7A20-C050 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 |
| Max. Data Rate | 100Gbps |
| Cable Length | 50m (164ft) |
| Cable Type | Breakout AOC |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Transmitter Type | VSCEL |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Max. Power Consumption | 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End) |
| Modulation Format | 4x 25G-NRZ to 2x 25G-NRZ |
| CDR (Clock and Data Recovery) | TX & RX Built-in CDR |
| Jacket Material | OFNP |
| DDM/DOM | Supported |
| Commercial Temperature Range | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | QSFP28 Electrical MSA, SFF-8636, SFF-8665 |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is 4x 25G-NRZ to 2x 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.
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 (100G Per End)1.5W (50G Per End); the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 2.2W (100G Per End)1.5W (50G 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 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 determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP28 Electrical MSA, SFF-8636, SFF-8665. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP28 to 2x QSFP28 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.
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 50m (164ft), MFA7A20-C050 should be planned as an extended equipment-room connection rather than a short in-rack jumper. Mark the complete vertical and horizontal route before installation, including every manager the cable will actually pass through. Support the integrated optical cable and both optical engines along that path and keep both ends free from pull loads. Within this family, MFA7A20-C030 is shorter at 30m (98ft), while MFA7A20-C070 is the next longer choice at 70m (230ft); comparing those two boundaries helps avoid both tension and unnecessary slack.
Position Within the Length Range
MFA7A20-C050 occupies the middle of this family between MFA7A20-C030 at 30m (98ft) and MFA7A20-C070 at 70m (230ft). It adds 20m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 20m. Measure the managed path and choose this version when its reach is sufficient without creating the slack associated with the longer assembly.
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. Where supported by the host, receive activity and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original NVIDIA/Mellanox cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7A20-C050.
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. MFA7A20-C050 refers here to 50m (164ft). 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.
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 MFA7A20-C050 associated with 50m (164ft) 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. 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.
