Dell (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M Compatible 40G QSFP+ to 4 Duplex LC Active Optical Breakout Cable, 5m (16ft)

The (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M compatible cable combines 40G AOC connectivity with a defined 5m (16ft) pathway between QSFP+ to 4 duplex LC interfaces. It is intended for Dell equipment and is documented here as a distinct order code, allowing cable schedules, service access and related length selections to be reviewed before installation.
OEM Part Number: (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5MHT Part Number: (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M
Product Highlights
- Compatible alternative to Dell (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M
- 40G connectivity at 40Gbps
- Interface configuration: QSFP+ to 4 duplex LC
- Fixed length and part number: 5m (16ft), (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M
- Minimum bend radius: 30mm
Specifications
| HT Part Number | (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M |
|---|---|
| Dell (Force10) Compatible | CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M |
| Manufacturer | HT |
| Connector Type | QSFP+ to 4 duplex LC |
| Max Data Rate | 40Gbps |
| Minimum Bend Radius | 30mm |
| Fiber Type | OM3 Multimode Fiber (MMF) |
| Cable Length | 5m (16.4ft) |
| Jacket Material | OFNP |
| Temperature | 0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F) |
| Protocols | 10G/40Gigabit Ethernet or Fibre Channel |
Cable Construction and Routing
This assembly uses OFNP jacket, minimum bend radius 30mm. 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.
Length Selection and Installation Planning
The 5m (16ft) length gives (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M more freedom for adjacent-rack and row-end deployments. The integrated optical assembly should be supported along its route without tight bends or connector pull loads; the AOC specification and host support must still match the intended link.
Position Within the Length Range
(Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M is the shortest of 5 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 (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC10M at 10m (33ft), adding 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 minimum bend radius is 30mm; the jacket material is OFNP.
Network and Protocol Considerations
The intended application is determined by the host interface and protocol support. Listed interface and protocol references include 10G/40Gigabit Ethernet or Fibre Channel. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.
Breakout Port Mapping
The QSFP+ to 4 duplex LC 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.
Integrated Optical Assembly
The optical engines and fiber are permanently integrated into this AOC. There are no detachable optical modules to clean or exchange. Handle the complete assembly by its connector housings and cable, and keep both ends matched to the same interface specification.
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. Keep (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M associated with 5m (16ft) throughout the order and receiving record.
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. Where supported by the host, receive activity and diagnostic indications are reviewed together with the established link.
Shipping and Lead Time
Available stock is generally dispatched within one to three working days after order confirmation, with production lead times advised for larger quantities. 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.
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
Is this an original Dell cable?
No. It is an HT-manufactured compatible alternative for equipment that specifies Dell (Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M.
Will any matching connector operate at the same speed?
Not necessarily. Both hosts must support the stated rate, identification, lane mapping and any required breakout configuration; mechanical compatibility alone is insufficient.
What details assist a compatibility review?
Provide the equipment manufacturer, model, port type, hardware revision and software release, together with the OEM reference, required length and quantity.
How should an unused assembly be stored?
Protect both connector ends, keep the cable in a loose bend-safe coil and retain its part-number label so the length and compatibility identity remain traceable.
(Force10) CBL-QSFP-8LC-AOC5M