NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-C005 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Ethernet Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 5m (16ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-C005
• 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), MCP1600-C005
• Cable construction: Passive Twinax
• Conductor specification: 26AWG
• Maximum power consumption: ≤0.5W
• Minimum bend radius: 45mm

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

The 5m (16ft) length gives MCP1600-C005 more freedom for adjacent-rack and row-end deployments. Longer copper runs need particular attention to routing weight and bend control; the DAC specification and host support must still match the intended link.

Position Within the Length Range

MCP1600-C005 is the longest of 7 verified length options in this family. Compared with MCP1600-C003 at 3m (10ft), it provides 2m 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 45mm; 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 26AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 45mm. 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 100G Ethernet. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8662, IEEE 802.3. 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. Standard protective packing is used by default, with project documentation arranged when requested.

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-C005 associated with 5m (16ft) 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. Both connectors are examined before the operating test, which includes link stability and diagnostic indications.

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. Delivery can be arranged by courier, air freight or sea freight, and goods may instead be handed to an appointed forwarder or shipped on the customer’s courier account.