Arista Networks CAB-Q56-Q56-3M Compatible 200G QSFP56 4 x 50G PAM4 Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 3m (10ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to Arista Networks CAB-Q56-Q56-3M
• 200G connectivity at 200Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP56 to QSFP56
• Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), CAB-Q56-Q56-3M
• Cable construction: Passive Twinax
• Conductor specification: 26AWG
• Maximum power consumption: 0.03W Per End
• Minimum bend radius: 44.5mm

Specifications

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is 0.03W 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.

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

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

CAB-Q56-Q56-3M is the longest of 5 verified length options in this family. Compared with CAB-Q56-Q56-2M at 2m (7ft), it provides 1m 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.

Data-Center Design and Airflow

Select the assembly by both reach and rack layout. A direct connection removes separate module-and-patch-cord interfaces, but it still needs a bend-safe pathway and clear connector access. Keep cable bundles from blocking front-panel airflow, account for the listed interface power where applicable and choose a length that supports maintenance without leaving an unmanaged coil. For this assembly, the listed conductor specification is 26AWG; the minimum bend radius is 44.5mm; the stated power consumption is 0.03W Per End; the jacket material is PVC.

Cable Construction and Routing

This assembly uses 26AWG conductors, PVC jacket, minimum bend radius 44.5mm. 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 IEEE802.3cd, SFF-8436. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

Quality Assurance and Packaging

Each cable receives connector inspection and a functional link check before it is coiled with bend-safe slack and packed. Protective materials shield the connector housings during transport. Rack or project labels are available to keep length, part number and installation destination aligned. Neutral packaging and customer-specific packing documentation are available on request.

Ordering Information

Provide the OEM reference, HT part number, fixed length and quantity, together with the intended host interfaces. Rack-based quantities and packaging instructions can be included for larger deployments. Other lengths are separate products and should be entered on their own order lines. Keep CAB-Q56-Q56-3M associated with 3m (10ft) throughout the order and receiving record.

Arista Networks Compatibility and Factory Testing

Compatibility confirmation combines host identification with actual link establishment and diagnostic checks. The assembly is prepared for the stated OEM reference rather than selected only by connector shape. For a new data-center deployment, the equipment model, port mode and software release provide the most useful basis for a pre-order review. Where supported by the host, link stability and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.