Dell DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M Compatible 400G QSFP-DD 8 x 50G PAM4 Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 0.5m (2ft)

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to Dell DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M
• 400G connectivity at 400Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP-DD to QSFP-DD
• Fixed length and part number: 0.5m (2ft), DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M
• Cable construction: Passive Twinax
• Conductor specification: 30AWG
• Maximum power consumption: 0.1W Per End
• Minimum bend radius: 33mm

Specifications

Signal and Lane Configuration

The listed modulation format is 8x 50Gbps PAM4. 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.

Position Within the Length Range

DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M is the shortest of 6 verified length options in this family. It is the preferred choice when the port positions are close and cable slack must be kept to a minimum. The next option is DAC-Q56DD-400G-1M at 1m (3ft), adding 0.5m for a less direct routing path; selecting it unnecessarily would leave more cable to dress.

Structured Pathways and Serviceability

Treat the direct-attach assembly as part of the permanent pathway plan even when the link is expected to be temporary. Follow the intended horizontal and vertical managers, maintain the specified bend radius and leave service access around both ports. A small, supported service allowance is preferable to excess slack concealed inside a rack or placed under cable-tie pressure. For this assembly, the listed conductor specification is 30AWG; the minimum bend radius is 33mm; the stated power consumption is 0.1W Per End; the jacket material is PET.

Power and Thermal Planning

The rated power consumption is 0.1W Per End. 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 30AWG conductors, PET jacket, minimum bend radius 33mm. 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 400G Ethernet. Listed interface and protocol references include IEEE 802.3cd, QSFP-DD MSA, CMIS 4.0. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

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 0.5m (2ft) length is suited to closely aligned ports where excessive slack would obstruct airflow or complicate dressing. Measure the actual port-to-port path before choosing DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M; even a short assembly must retain the specified bend radius and should never be pulled tight behind the equipment.

Ordering Information

Include the part number, fixed length, quantity and required pathway or rack grouping in the order information. The host model and firmware release are useful for change-controlled deployments. Different lengths should remain separate order lines so delivered labels and packing records agree with the pathway plan. Quantity and any labeling instructions should be attached specifically to DAC-Q56DD-400G-0.5M.

Dell Compatibility and Factory Testing

Verification covers the physical connectors, expected host identity and an operating link with available diagnostic indications. We distinguish this complete check from a simple continuity test. Platform model and software release can be reviewed in advance where the installation has strict documentation or change-control requirements. The check includes link stability and diagnostic indications, followed by a final inspection of both ends.

Shipping and Lead Time

Standard configurations normally ship within one to three working days, while production quantities are confirmed with the order. International express, air cargo and sea freight can be selected according to destination and carton volume; customer courier accounts and nominated forwarders are also accepted.

Quality Assurance and Packaging

After connector inspection and link verification, the assembly is coiled without tight bends and packed with end protection. Labels can cross-reference the customer cable schedule, OEM part number and length. This supports both receiving checks and later moves, adds or changes. Volume orders can include customer references on the labels and carton list.

Frequently Asked Questions