NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-C003 Compatible 100G QSFP28 4 x 25G NRZ Ethernet Passive Copper Twinax Cable, 3m (10ft)

For short, high-density connections, this DAC cable combines 100G performance with a fixed 3m (10ft) cable run. It corresponds to NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-C003 and uses a factory-terminated passive copper link without separate optical modules or patch cords.

OEM Part Number: MCP1600-C003HT Part Number: MCP1600-C003

Product Highlights

• Compatible alternative to NVIDIA/Mellanox MCP1600-C003
• 100G connectivity at 100Gbps
• Interface configuration: QSFP28 to QSFP28
• Fixed length and part number: 3m (10ft), MCP1600-C003
• Cable construction: Passive Twinax
• Conductor specification: 30AWG
• Maximum power consumption: ≤0.5W
• Minimum bend radius: 33.5mm

NVIDIA describes MCP1600 QSFP28 passive copper cables as four high-speed copper pairs operating at up to 25GbE per pair, with EEPROM product identification readable by the host. Its documentation distinguishes shorter no-FEC versions from longer RS-FEC versions, with specific variants at 2.5m and 3m. Check the exact suffix rather than selecting by length alone.

The intended application is 100G Ethernet. Listed interface and protocol references include QSFP28 MSA, SFF-8662, IEEE 802.3. Confirm that the host firmware and port configuration support the same operating mode.

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.

At 3m (10ft), this assembly can bridge non-aligned ports or adjacent racks while remaining a single direct-attach link. Support longer horizontal runs with suitable cable management and preserve space for cooling and future maintenance.

MCP1600-C003 occupies the middle of this family between MCP1600-C0025 at 2.5m (8ft) and MCP1600-C005 at 5m (16ft). It adds 0.5m over the shorter option for extra routing clearance, while the next longer version adds another 2m. Measure the managed path and choose this version when its reach is sufficient without creating the slack associated with the longer assembly.

The listed modulation format is 4x 25G-NRZ to 4x 25G-NRZ. 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.

The rated power consumption is ≤0.5W. 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.

This assembly uses 30AWG conductors, PVC (OFNR) jacket, minimum bend radius 33.5mm. 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.

The HT cable carries the compatibility configuration associated with MCP1600-C003, while its mechanical assembly remains the fixed 3m (10ft) version described here. Incoming inspection, connector examination and a live link test are completed before packing. Customers with unusually old or new NVIDIA/Mellanox software can request a pre-order check.

This product is ordered as MCP1600-C003 in 3m (10ft). Include the equipment model and software release if you would like a pre-order compatibility review. Other lengths use different part numbers and should not be substituted into the same order line.

HT inspects and tests every completed cable before it enters finished stock. Protective caps or covers are fitted where applicable, followed by anti-static or tray packaging and an outer carton. Custom labels can cross-reference the customer part number, MCP1600-C003 and the 3m (10ft) length for easier inventory control.

Lead time for ordinary configurations is normally one to three working days, while production quantities are confirmed with the order. We can arrange express courier or economy freight according to destination and carton volume, or hand the shipment to your appointed logistics provider.