Mellanox MFS1S00-H010V 10m QSFP56 Active Optical Cable | 200Gb/s InfiniBand HDR & Ethernet, Hot-Pluggable AOC with DDM

Product Model: MFS1S00-H010V | Core Keywords: active optical cable, 200Gb/s AOC, QSFP56 cable, InfiniBand HDR, 10m optical interconnect

The NVIDIA MFS1S00-H010V is a 10-meter Active Optical Cable (AOC) engineered for demanding high-bandwidth applications. It features QSFP56 connectors on both ends with embedded VCSEL-based optical engines, providing a complete 200Gb/s link for both InfiniBand HDR and 200 Gigabit Ethernet protocols. This 10m optical interconnect is designed to bridge connections between switches, or between switches and servers equipped with compatible network interface cards, in scenarios where distance and signal integrity are critical.

The cable's performance is rooted in several advanced technologies:

• Optical Transmission: Utilizes four VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) transmitters and corresponding photodetectors operating over OM4 multimode fiber.
• High-Speed Signaling: Employs PAM4 (4-level Pulse Amplitude Modulation) encoding at 53.125 GBaud per lane to achieve 200Gb/s aggregate bandwidth.
• Integrated Signal Processing: On-board retiming and clock data recovery (CDR) circuits on both transmit and receive paths clean and regenerate the high-speed signals.
• Standardized Management: Full compliance with SFF-8636 management specification via an I2C interface for control, status, and extensive diagnostics.
• Compliance Framework: Designed to InfiniBand Trade Association (IBTA) HDR specifications and carries key global certifications (CE, FCC, RoHS).

The cable functions as a self-contained, bi-directional optical link. Electrical data streams from the host network card or switch enter the QSFP56 module. Inside, the electrical signals are conditioned (equalized, retimed) and used to drive four high-speed VCSEL lasers, converting the data into optical pulses. These pulses travel through the four internal multimode fibers across the 10-meter span. At the far end, integrated photodiodes convert the light back into electrical signals. These are then amplified, retimed, and equalized by the receiver circuitry before being output to the connected device. This active regeneration process is key to maintaining signal integrity over the extended distance, a core benefit of the 200Gb/s AOC architecture.

• Inter-Switch Links (ISL): Connecting leaf and spine switches (e.g., NVIDIA SN3000/SN4000 series) at 200GbE within and across racks.
• HPC & AI Fabric Connectivity: Establishing links within InfiniBand HDR fabrics for high-performance computing and artificial intelligence clusters.
• Extended Server Connections: Linking servers with 200G-capable NIC cards (e.g., ConnectX-6/7) to top-of-rack switches located several meters away.
• Data Center Expansion: Ideal for connections that exceed the practical reach of passive copper cables (typically >3-5m) but do not require long-haul optics.
• High-Density Aggregation: Deploying in scenarios where cable management and airflow are concerns, as AOCs are generally more flexible and have a smaller bend radius than bulky passive copper alternatives.

Series Availability: Also offered in 3m, 5m, 15m, 20m, 30m, 50m, and 100m lengths.

• Reach & Integrity in One Package: Solves the common 10-meter connectivity challenge where passive DACs fail and separate transceivers with fiber add complexity and potential points of failure.
• Predictable Performance & Compatibility: As a fully integrated solution from NVIDIA, it guarantees end-to-end performance when used with compatible NVIDIA switches and network cards, eliminating guesswork.
• Operational Intelligence: The built-in DDM allows network operators to proactively monitor link health (temperature, power levels), facilitating preventive maintenance and rapid troubleshooting—a feature absent in passive cables.
• Total Cost Optimization: While the initial unit cost may be higher than passive copper, it often results in lower total cost of ownership by reducing installation time, eliminating transceiver procurement, and minimizing link failures.

Purchasing from us ensures full lifecycle support for this critical interconnect component.

• Product Warranty: Covered by the standard NVIDIA manufacturer's warranty for quality assurance.
• Inventory Status: The MFS1S00-H010V is part of our curated stock, supported by a multi-million dollar inventory commitment for reliable availability.
• Technical Deployment Services: Our team provides integration support, helping verify compatibility with your specific switch models and server NIC cards.
• Continuous Support: Access to 24/7 customer service and technical assistance for any operational inquiries.
• Global Delivery Assurance: We manage logistics to ensure prompt and accurate delivery to your site anywhere in the world.

Q1: Can I use this cable to connect a 200G port to a 100G port?
A: The cable itself operates at 200Gb/s. Connectivity to a 100G port would require the host device (switch or nic card) to support port breakout or speed negotiation features (like Rate Select) to downgrade the link. This is not a function of the cable alone and must be configured on the connected equipment.

Q2: How does the diagnostic data help in practice?
A: The DDM data allows you to monitor real-time receive optical power. A steady decline can indicate a dirty connector or failing component before the link drops. Monitoring temperature helps ensure the cable isn't overheating due to blocked airflow. This is crucial for maintaining uptime in networks built with expensive active optical cables and compute resources.

Q3: Is the cable polarity configurable or is it fixed?
A: The polarity and lane mapping are fixed within the AOC assembly, following the standard for a straight-through QSFP56 to QSFP56 connection. It is designed for direct equipment-to-equipment links.

Q4: What happens if I bend the cable too tightly?
A: Exceeding the 30mm minimum bend radius can cause micro-bends in the internal fibers, leading to increased attenuation (signal loss). Severe bending may cause permanent damage and complete link failure. Always use proper cable routing guides.

Q5: Does the 'V' suffix have functional implications?
A: Yes, the 'V' denotes VPI (Virtual Protocol Interconnect) capability, confirming that this QSFP56 cable is firmware-enabled to operate in both InfiniBand HDR and 200 Gigabit Ethernet modes, providing protocol flexibility for your infrastructure.

• Pre-Installation Check: Verify that both connecting devices (switches, network cards) support QSFP56 form factor, 200Gb/s speeds, and have sufficient power budget for the AOC.
• ESD Safety: Always use an anti-static wrist strap when handling and installing the cable into live equipment cages.
• Insertion/Removal Technique: Insert the connector squarely into the cage until you feel a click. Use the attached pull-tab for extraction; never pull on the cable jacket.
• Environmental Considerations: Ensure the operating environment stays within the specified temperature and humidity ranges. Avoid placing the cable near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
• Cable Routing Best Practices: Plan the 10-meter path to avoid sharp edges, pinch points, and areas of high foot traffic. Use Velcro ties for secure, non-destructive fastening.