# 100GBase-SR4 QSFP28 Cable Overview and Specifications

## Introduction to 100GBase-SR4 QSFP28 Cables

The 100GBase-SR4 QSFP28 cable is a high-speed optical transceiver solution designed for 100 Gigabit Ethernet (100GbE) applications. These cables are widely used in data centers and high-performance computing environments where high bandwidth and low latency are critical requirements.

## Key Features of 100GBase-SR4 QSFP28 Cables

The 100GBase-SR4 QSFP28 cable offers several important features that make it ideal for modern networking applications:

  • Supports data rates up to 100 Gbps

  • Uses four parallel 25 Gbps lanes (4x25G)

  • MPO/MTP connector interface

  • Multi-mode fiber (OM3 or OM4) compatibility

  • Hot-pluggable QSFP28 form factor

  • Low power consumption compared to alternatives

## Technical Specifications

Physical Characteristics

The 100GBase-SR4 QSFP28 cable typically has the following physical specifications:

Parameter Value
Form Factor QSFP28
Connector Type MPO/MTP (12-fiber)
Fiber Type OM3 or OM4 multi-mode
Cable Length Options 1m, 2m, 3m, 5m, 10m, 15m, 20m, 30m, etc.

Performance Specifications

The performance characteristics of 100GBase-SR4 QSFP28 cables include:

  • Maximum reach: 70m (OM3) or 100m (OM4)

  • Wavelength: 850nm (VCSEL-based)

  • Power consumption: <3.5W typical

  • Operating temperature: 0°C to 70°C

  • Compliant with IEEE 802.3bm 100GBASE-SR4 standard

## Applications and Use Cases

Data Center Connectivity

100GBase-SR4 QSFP28 cables are primarily used for:

  • Top-of-rack (ToR) to leaf switch connections

  • Leaf to spine switch interconnects

  • High-performance computing clusters

  • Storage area networks

Compatibility

These cables are compatible with various networking equipment from major vendors including Cisco, Juniper, Arista, and others. They can be used in both breakout and non-breakout configurations depending on the specific network requirements.

## Advantages Over Alternative Solutions

The 100GBase-SR4 QSFP28 cable offers several benefits compared to other 100G solutions: