100G QSFP28 DAC Cable 2m - Reliable 100GBASE-CR4 Twinax Link

In this review of the 100G QSFP28 DAC Cable 2m, the bottom line is simple: it is a no-nonsense, cost-effective option for engineers and network admins who need a short-reach 100-Gigabit copper connection between QSFP28 ports. The reviewer found the cable well suited to rack-to-rack and intra-rack links where passive twinax is preferred, and the single biggest reason to buy is its combination of compatibility with Intel QSFP-100G-CU2M and factory signal integrity testing that reduces deployment risk.

Key Features

• 100GBASE-CR4 capability: Provides a native 100-Gigabit copper connection suitable for very short links between QSFP28 ports.
• QSFP28 to QSFP28 form factor: Direct attach twinax ends make it plug-and-play for switches and devices with QSFP28 cages, avoiding separate transceivers.
• Passive 2-meter length: The 2 m (6.5 ft) length is ideal for within-rack or adjacent-rack connections where longer active optics are unnecessary.
• 30 AWG twinax construction: Thicker gauge ensures consistent electrical characteristics across the short link for reliable throughput.
• Compatibility and testing: Built to be compatible with Intel QSFP-100G-CU2M and each cable is TDR and VNA tested in the manufacturer's lab and switch-verified before delivery.
• Manufacturer support: Supplied by a direct-attach copper cable manufacturer that offers custom service for special lengths or labels.

Who It's For

This cable is best for network engineers, datacenter technicians, and systems integrators who need a cost-conscious 100G link between QSFP28 ports inside racks or to adjacent racks. It fits scenarios where optical transceivers are not required and where the physical distance is within a couple of meters.

It is not intended for long-distance connections or for environments that require active optical cables or fiber runs; those who need extended reach or full optical isolation should consider optical transceivers and fiber patching instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Proven compatibility with Intel QSFP-100G-CU2M makes deployment straightforward in mixed environments.
• Factory TDR and VNA testing plus individual switch verification reduces early-life failures and troubleshooting time.
• Passive twinax design keeps power use and latency low compared with active alternatives.

Cons

• Limited to very short links; not suitable if you require runs beyond adjacent racks.

Specifications

Interface	QSFP28 to QSFP28
Standard	100GBASE-CR4
Length	2 meters (6.5 ft)
Cable Gauge	30 AWG
Type	Passive Direct Attach Copper Twinax
Compatibility	Compatible with Intel QSFP-100G-CU2M

Our Verdict

For short-reach 100G links inside racks or between adjacent racks, this QSFP28 DAC cable is a practical, well-tested choice. The compatibility with common Intel modules and the manufacturer's lab and switch testing make it a dependable and budget-friendly option for datacenter deployments where passive twinax is acceptable and distance requirements are limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this work with Intel QSFP-100G-CU2M?
Yes. The cable is listed as compatible with Intel QSFP-100G-CU2M and was validated by the manufacturer.

Is this an active cable or passive?
It is a passive direct attach copper twinax cable, so it does not contain active electronics for signal conditioning.

What distances is this intended for?
The 2 m length is intended for very short links such as within racks or between adjacent racks, not for long-distance runs.