Axiom 10G SFP+ Direct Attach Cable 3.3 ft - Reliable Cisco Compatible

In this review the Axiom 10GBase-CU SFP+ passive DAC Twinax cable is evaluated for small datacenter and lab use where short, high-speed Cisco-compatible links are required. The bottom line: it is a simple, low-latency 3.3 ft direct attach cable that works with several Cisco switches and UCS modules, and it excels when cost, compatibility and plug-and-play convenience are the priorities. The reviewer found the cable to be well built for short runs between SFP+ ports and particularly useful when replacing more expensive optics in fixed switch-to-switch connections.

Key Features

• Compatibility: Works with multiple Cisco Catalyst and Nexus models, making it easy to use in mixed Cisco environments without extra transceivers.
• Length and format: The 3.3 ft twinaxial design provides a compact, low-latency connection ideal for adjacent racks or switch pairs.
• Performance: The passive SFP+ twinax implementation delivers 10GBase-CU performance for short-distance, high-throughput links without active electronics.
• Package convenience: Shipped as a single item with modest package weight, it is simple to store and deploy for quick swaps or upgrades.
• Cost efficiency: Being a direct attach cable avoids the extra expense of separate optics and fiber for short copper links.

Who It's For

The cable is best for network engineers and IT teams who need an affordable, low-latency 10G connection between adjacent switches or server ports, especially in Cisco Catalyst 2960 series, Nexus 93180/9336/9372 and UCS 6140 environments. It is also a good pick for lab benches and small datacenters where predictable short-range links are common.

It is not aimed at installations requiring long-distance fiber runs, hot-pluggable optics with extended diagnostics, or environments that demand active DACs for power or longer reach. If you need pluggable SFP+ transceivers with separate fiber cables for longer spans, this passive twinax cable is not the right choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Direct compatibility with several Cisco switch and UCS models saves time on procurement and installation.
• Compact 3.3 ft length and twinax construction deliver low-latency 10G links for short runs.
• Simple, single-package item that is easy to deploy in racks or server pairs.

Cons

• Limited to short-distance use as a passive DAC, so it cannot replace fiber for longer links.

Specifications

Product Type	ELECTRONIC CABLE
Model Identifier	Sfp-h10gb-cu1m-ax
Length	3.3 ft
Cable Type	Twinaxial passive DAC
Compatible Platforms	Cisco Catalyst 2960/2960G/2960S, Nexus 93180/9336/9372, UCS 6140
Package Weight	0.88125 Pounds
Package Quantity	1

Our Verdict

The Axiom 10G SFP+ direct attach cable is a practical, value-driven solution for short-range 10G links in Cisco-based racks and labs. It delivers the expected passive twinax performance with straightforward compatibility and minimal fuss, making it a sensible purchase for teams looking to replace optics or add short copper links without extra components.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this cable work in Cisco 2960 switches?
Yes; it is indicated as compatible with Cisco Catalyst 2960, 2960G and 2960S models for SFP+ ports.

What is the effective maximum distance?
As a passive 10GBase-CU twinax DAC, it is intended for short runs such as adjacent racks or within the same rack, not long-distance fiber links.

Does it include multiple cables?
No; the package quantity is one cable, shipped as a single item in modest packaging.