Cisco QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M Compatible 40G QSFP+ to 4 x 10G SFP+ Active Copper Breakout Cable, 9m (29ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to Cisco QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M
• 40G connectivity at 40Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP+ to SFP+
• Fixed length and part number: 9m (29ft), QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M
• Cable construction: Active Twinax
• Conductor specification: 26AWG
• Maximum power consumption: ≤1.8W
• Minimum bend radius: 44.5mm

Specifications

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is ≤1.8W. 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.

Mixed-Vendor Network Operation

A mixed-vendor link should be documented at both ends, not treated as one generic connection. Confirm which OEM identity each host expects and whether the two ends use the same compatibility requirement. The related brand links below help locate equivalent-length assemblies, while the physical form factor and lane arrangement must still agree across the complete path. For this assembly, the listed conductor specification is 26AWG; the minimum bend radius is 44.5mm; the stated power consumption is ≤1.8W; the jacket material is PVC (OFNR).

Cable Construction and Routing

This assembly uses 26AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 44.5mm. 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 determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include SFF-8431, SFF-8432, SFF-8472 SFP+ MSA, SFF-8436 QSFP+ MSA. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

Breakout Port Mapping

The QSFP+ to SFP+ configuration divides the high-speed interface into multiple lower-speed connections. Verify the upstream lane assignment, downstream port speeds and breakout setting on the host before connecting the assembly. Each branch must attach to the correct remote interface.

Length Selection and Installation Planning

The 9m (29ft) reach of QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M is useful only when the managed pathway requires it; straight-line distance between ports is not a sufficient measurement. Check the route around rack rails, cable managers and maintenance clearances, then protect the complete copper assembly and both connector housings from tight bends and unsupported spans. The next shorter verified assembly is QSFP-4 x 10G-AC7M at 7m (23ft), which is the better comparison when the managed route leaves substantial unused cable.

Position Within the Length Range

QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M is the longest of 5 verified length options in this family. Compared with QSFP-4 x 10G-AC7M at 7m (23ft), 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.

Cisco Compatibility and Factory Testing

Testing addresses the brand-specific identification as well as the operating link and available diagnostics. The same physical cable family can require a different host identity for another equipment vendor, so the intended platform should be supplied when a deployment combines multiple brands or unusual hardware revisions. Where supported by the host, link stability and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.

Ordering Information

For mixed-vendor projects, identify the equipment at both ends along with the OEM reference, length and quantity. Order each compatibility version under its own part number. If spare assemblies are required, list them separately so labels and test records remain unambiguous. Keep QSFP-4 x 10G-AC9M associated with 9m (29ft) throughout the order and receiving record.

Quality Assurance and Packaging

Both ends are inspected and the complete assembly is powered up for a functional check before packing. Connectors are protected individually and the cable is secured without tight bends. Optional labels can distinguish host brand, OEM reference and length for easier spares management. Neutral packaging and customer-specific packing documentation are available on request.

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. Worldwide courier services are available, with air or sea freight for consolidated shipments; freight-collect delivery and coordination with a customer’s logistics provider can be arranged.