AVPro Edge 40G QSFP+ 1 Meter Active Optical Cable

Overview

The AVPro Edge 40G QSFP+ 1 Meter Active Optical Cable (AOC) provides a direct-attach fiber solution for connecting QSFP+ ports in professional AV and IT infrastructure. At 1 meter, it is sized for intra-rack connections between 40G-capable switches, matrix switchers, and signal distribution equipment. Unlike passive copper DAC cables, the active optical design converts electrical signals to light at each end, delivering consistent signal integrity regardless of rack vibration or electromagnetic interference from adjacent power and signal cabling.

This cable ships with integrated QSFP+ transceivers on each end—no separate optics required. It draws power from the host port, requires no external power source, and is compatible with any standards-compliant QSFP+ interface rated for 40GBASE-SR4 or equivalent AOC modes.

Description

The AC-40G-AOC-01 active optical cable integrates fiber optic transmission into a plug-and-play form factor. The QSFP+ connector interfaces directly with 40G switch ports, AV-over-IP encoder/decoder chassis, and high-density signal distribution frames. The optical core eliminates the ground loop and EMI susceptibility issues inherent to copper interconnects in dense equipment environments.

With a 1-meter reach, this cable is optimized for top-of-rack and intra-rack deployments. It is particularly well-suited for connecting 40G network switches to AVPro Edge AV-over-IP matrix frames where short, high-bandwidth links are required between aggregation and distribution layers.

Key Features

• 40 Gbps full-duplex bandwidth over a 1-meter optical link
• Integrated QSFP+ transceivers — no separate optic modules needed
• Optical fiber core provides complete EMI/RFI immunity
• No ground loops — ideal for mixed AV and IT rack environments
• Host port powered — zero external power draw
• Lightweight, flexible jacket designed for tight intra-rack routing
• Plug-and-play with any standards-compliant 40G QSFP+ switch port
• Compatible with AVPro Edge AV-over-IP distribution frames

Typical Applications

• Intra-rack uplinks between 40G network switches and AV-over-IP matrix frames
• High-density AV distribution systems where copper DAC cables introduce EMI
• Broadcast and live event production racks with dense signal cabling
• University and corporate AV-over-IP deployments using 40G spine-leaf switching
• Data center environments requiring short, high-bandwidth optical interconnects
• Top-of-rack connections in AV systems integrators' pre-built rack solutions

Technical Specs

Competitor Comparison

The AVPro Edge AOC is specified and validated for use with AVPro Edge AV-over-IP switching hardware, giving AV integrators a single-source interconnect solution. Cisco and Finisar alternatives are IT-grade parts that require independent qualification for each AV platform.

FAQ

Is this cable compatible with non-AVPro Edge 40G switches?

Yes. Any switch or device with a standards-compliant QSFP+ port supporting 40GBASE-SR4 or AOC mode will accept this cable. Verify your switch's compatibility list if interoperability certification is required for your project.

Why choose an AOC over a passive copper DAC cable for a 1-meter run?

Passive copper DAC cables are susceptible to EMI from nearby power cables, motor drives, and switching power supplies common in AV equipment racks. AOC cables use an optical core that is immune to these interference sources, making them the preferred choice in signal-dense AV environments.

Does the cable require any driver installation or configuration?

No. The integrated transceivers present as standard QSFP+ optics to the host switch. No additional drivers, firmware, or configuration steps are required beyond standard QSFP+ port enablement.

What is the maximum supported bend radius?

AOC cables with optical fiber cores have tighter minimum bend radius requirements than copper cables. Avoid sharp bends under approximately 30 mm radius to maintain signal integrity and prevent fiber fatigue. Route cables in gentle curves within the rack.

Can this cable be used in plenum or riser-rated installations?

This cable is designed for intra-rack use and carries a standard PVC jacket rating. For in-wall or above-ceiling runs, consult AVPro Edge for plenum-rated fiber alternatives.