NVIDIA Mellanox MFA1A00-C030 Active Optical Cable, 100GbE Ethernet, QSFP28 to QSFP28, 30m, LSZH: This enterprise networking cable is a 30-meter active optical cable (AOC) with QSFP28 connectors on both ends, part number MFA1A00-C030 (NVIDIA P/N 980-9I13N-00C030). It provides 100GbE Ethernet connectivity using integrated optoelectronics that convert electrical signals to optical pulses, allowing reliable data transmission over 30 meters. The LSZH jacket meets datacenter fire safety regulations. This is a refurbished unit, tested by T.E.S IT-SOLUTIONS.
Engineering Context
The MFA1A00-C030 is a fixed-length integrated cable assembly (not a transceiver with detachable patch cord). It uses 4x 25 Gb/s NRZ lanes for 100GbE aggregate throughput. The sealed optics within each QSFP28 connector head provide EMI immunity and deterministic latency, eliminating crosstalk and attenuation issues common in passive copper cables beyond 5 meters. Power consumption is under 3.5W (platform dependent). The 30-meter reach supports intra-building connectivity across multiple server rows. Minimum bend radius is 30mm to prevent internal fiber attenuation.
Deployment & Use Cases
Ethernet-based AI fabric interconnects for GPU-to-switch communication in distributed training clusters. Top-of-rack (ToR) to end-of-row (EoR) long-reach connectivity across multiple server rows. Enterprise core networking for high-bandwidth uplinks in core-to-aggregation layer transitions. HPC environments requiring low-latency 100GbE interconnects over distances exceeding passive copper reach.
Technical Specifications
OEM: NVIDIA Mellanox
Part Number: MFA1A00-C030
NVIDIA P/N: 980-9I13N-00C030
Type: Active Optical Cable (AOC)
Data Rate: 100GbE (4x 25Gb/s NRZ)
Protocol: Ethernet
Connectors: QSFP28 to QSFP28
Length: 30 meters
Jacket: LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen)
Power Consumption: <3.5W (platform dependent)
Minimum Bend Radius: 30mm
Condition: Refurbished — Tested by T.E.S IT-SOLUTIONS
Compatibility & Hard Constraints
Ethernet Only: This C-series part number (MFA1A00-C030) is coded for Ethernet. For InfiniBand EDR, use the MFA1A00-E030 variant — the physical cable is similar but EEPROM firmware coding differs. QSFP28 Ports: Both ends are QSFP28. Compatible with ConnectX-4, ConnectX-5, ConnectX-6 100GbE NICs and Spectrum SN2000, SN3000, SN4000 series switches. Not compatible with SFP+, SFP28, QSFP56, or OSFP ports. Active Cable: Requires power from QSFP28 ports. RS-FEC (Reed-Solomon Forward Error Correction) is typically required on the host port for stable 100GbE at 30m. Most modern switches enable RS-FEC by default. Bend Radius: Maintain 30mm minimum bend radius to prevent micro-fractures. Airflow: QSFP28 port areas need adequate airflow as AOC internal DSPs generate more heat than passive DACs.
Why Choose T.E.S IT-SOLUTIONS
T.E.S IT-SOLUTIONS validates every 100GbE AOC for Ethernet performance in our lab. We offer expert consultation, fast worldwide shipping with 1–3 business day handling, and a comprehensive warranty.