NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-E003E26 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Infiniband EDR Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 3m (10ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-E003E26
• 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), MCP1600-E003E26
• Cable construction: Passive Twinax
• Conductor specification: 30AWG
• Maximum power consumption: ≤0.5W
• Minimum bend radius: 33.5mm

Specifications

NVIDIA OEM Reference

NVIDIA describes MCP1600 QSFP28 passive copper cables as four high-speed copper pairs operating at up to 25GbE per pair, with EEPROM product identification readable by the host. Its documentation distinguishes shorter no-FEC versions from longer RS-FEC versions, with specific variants at 2.5m and 3m. Check the exact suffix rather than selecting by length alone.

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

MCP1600-E003E26 occupies the middle of this family between MCP1600-E002E30 at 2m (7ft) and MCP1600-E005E26 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.

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 30AWG; the minimum bend radius is 33.5mm; the stated power consumption is ≤0.5W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).

Signal and Lane Configuration

The listed modulation format is 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 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.

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is ≤0.5W. 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 30AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 33.5mm. 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 InfiniBand EDR. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3bj, QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8665, 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. Volume orders can include customer references on the labels and carton list.

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 MCP1600-E003E26 associated with 3m (10ft) throughout the order and receiving record.

NVIDIA/Mellanox 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

Standard configurations normally ship within one to three working days, while production quantities are confirmed with the order. 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.