Tripp Lite QSFP+ to 10 GbE SFP+ Passive DAC Breakout Cable (M/M), QSFP+ to (x4) SFP+, Compatible to Cisco QSFP-4SFP10G-CU1M, 1M (3.28 ft.)

The Tripp Lite N281-01M-BK is a 1-meter passive direct attach copper breakout cable that converts one QSFP+ 40 GbE port into four separate SFP+ 10 GbE links. It is a simple way to fan out bandwidth from a spine or aggregation switch to servers, storage appliances, or top-of-rack switches inside the same cabinet.

The assembly supports an aggregate data rate of up to 40 Gbps, which keeps large backups, virtualization traffic, and database replication moving without adding latency. Because the cable is passive, it introduces virtually no power draw and keeps operating costs low when compared with active optical alternatives.

Each end uses a zinc die cast housing that blocks electromagnetic interference, helping signals stay clean even in dense data-center environments. Pull-tab ejectors give installers enough leverage to seat or remove the connectors in crowded switch ports without special tools. An eight-pair, 30 AWG conductor design stays flexible, so the cable routes easily through horizontal cable managers and tight bends.

Compliance with MSA SFF-8431 and SFF-8436 means the cable works out of the box with most open-standards networking gear, and it follows the same pinout as the Cisco QSFP-4SFP10G-CU1M model for mixed-vendor racks. Compatibility with SDR, DDR, and QDR InfiniBand equipment adds extra versatility for high-performance computing clusters.

Use this breakout cable when you need four independent 10 GbE connections from a single 40 GbE switch port, such as linking a pair of hyper-converged servers, attaching an iSCSI storage target, or providing redundant uplinks to an access layer switch. The result is higher port density, lower cost per connection, and a clean installation that stays serviceable over time.

Highlights:

• Splits one QSFP+ 40 GbE port into four SFP+ 10 GbE links on a single cable
• Supports an aggregate throughput of up to 40 Gbps over a 1 m direct attach copper run
• Zinc die cast connectors provide strong resistance to electromagnetic interference
• Pull-tab ejectors allow quick insertion and removal in high-density switch panels
• Eight-pair, 30 AWG conductors keep the assembly flexible for easy cable management
• Conforms to MSA SFF-8431 and SFF-8436 for broad multivendor compatibility
• Matches Cisco QSFP-4SFP10G-CU1M pinout and works with SDR, DDR, and QDR equipment
• Passive copper design requires no external power or transceivers, lowering total cost