NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H020 Compatible 400G OSFP 8 x 50G PAM4 IHS/Finned Top to 4 x 100G QSFP56 2 x 50G PAM4 InfiniBand HDR Active Optical Breakout Cable, 20m (66ft)
This MFA7U20-H020 compatible cable gives project teams a defined 400G connection in 20m (66ft), with OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56 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: MFA7U20-H020HT Part Number: MFA7U20-H020
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H020
- 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
- Interface configuration: OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56
- Fixed length and part number: 20m (66ft), MFA7U20-H020
- Cable construction: Breakout AOC
- Maximum power consumption: 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End)
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
- Operating temperature: 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Specifications
| HT Part Number | MFA7U20-H020 |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA/Mellanox InfiniBandCompatible | MFA7U20-H020 |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Form Factor | OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56 |
| Max. Data Rate | 400Gbps |
| Cable Length | 20m (66ft) |
| Cable Type | Breakout AOC |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Transmitter Type | VSCEL |
| Receiver Type | PIN |
| Max. Power Consumption | 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End) |
| Modulation Format | OSFP-8x 50G-PAM4QSFP56-2x 50G-PAM4 |
| 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 | IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0, SFF-8661, SFF-8636 |
| Application | 400G to 4x 100G |
Signal and Lane Configuration
The listed modulation format is OSFP-8x 50G-PAM4QSFP56-2x 50G-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.
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is 400G to 4x 100G. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3cd, CMIS 5.0, SFF-8661, SFF-8636. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The OSFP (IHS/Finned Top) to 4x QSFP56 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
With 20m (66ft) available, the installer has more routing freedom but also more cable to control. Determine where any remaining service loop will be stored, preserve the stated bend radius and keep the loop away from sharp edges and hot exhaust. The integrated optical cable and both optical engines should remain accessible for inspection and removal. Within this family, MFA7U20-H015 is shorter at 15m (49ft), while MFA7U20-H030 is the next longer choice at 30m (98ft); comparing those two boundaries helps avoid both tension and unnecessary slack.
Position Within the Length Range
MFA7U20-H020 occupies the middle of this family between MFA7U20-H015 at 15m (49ft) and MFA7U20-H030 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 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 Per End); the jacket material is OFNP.
Power and Thermal Planning
The rated power consumption is 10W (OSFP End) 5.5W (QSFP56 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.
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. The check includes receive activity and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an original NVIDIA/Mellanox cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies NVIDIA/Mellanox MFA7U20-H020.
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. MFA7U20-H020 refers here to 20m (66ft). 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. Quantity and any labeling instructions should be attached specifically to MFA7U20-H020.
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. Worldwide courier services are available, with air or sea freight for consolidated shipments; freight-collect delivery and coordination with a customer’s logistics provider can be arranged.
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.
