JUNIPER AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28 – multi-Mode 100Gbps Active Optical Cable

In today’s era of high-throughput networking, the Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28 cable stands out as a vital link for infrastructure that demands speed, reliability and future-ready performance. Built to deliver full 100Gbps throughput over multimode fiber in a compact, active optical form, this cable is engineered for data centres, enterprise backbones and high-performance environments where every millisecond and every bit counts.

What is the Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28-to-QSFP28?

The Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28 is an Active Optical Cable (AOC) that features QSFP28 connectors at both ends, operates over multimode fiber (MMF) and provides a 10-metre link length — offering a bridge between two QSFP28 ports at 100Gbps data rate. According to manufacturer specification sheets, this model supports data-rate ranges around 96.97-112.2 Gbps and typical power consumption of <3.5W.

Why Choose an Active Optical Cable and Why This Length?

Active Optical Cables convert electrical signals into optical ones internally, which allows longer reach, better signal integrity, lower weight and better flexibility compared to traditional copper Direct Attach Cables (DACs). In the case of the Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28, the 10-metre length is ideal for inter-rack or intra-room links in data centres where you need the flexibility to route between equipment without too much slack or unnecessary loops.

Because it supports 100Gbps and uses QSFP28, it aligns with modern infrastructures migrating from 10/40G to 100G and beyond. The active optical design also helps reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and provides better thermal/power efficiency.

Key Specifications & Features

Some of the standout specifications of the Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28 include:

• Link length: 10 metres.

• Form-factor: QSFP28 to QSFP28 connectors.

• Media type: Multimode fiber (MMF), often OM3 / OM4 grade.

• Data rate: ~96.97-112.2 Gbps (100G-class) supported.

• Wavelength: ~850nm for MMF usage.

• Typical power consumption: <3.5W.

• Operating temperature: 0°C to +70°C standard for many models.

• Compliance & standards: QSFP28 MSA, RoHS, CE etc.

• Ideal for short-reach high-speed links inside data centres.

Benefits of the Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28

• 100 Gbps bandwidth: Enables high-throughput applications such as virtualization, big-data, AI, cloud interconnects.

• Active optical design: Allows longer reach than equivalent passive cables, with improved thermals and EMI immunity.

• Compact and lightweight: Easier to route, handle and manage in dense rack environments.

• Flexibility and future-proofing: As networks scale, this cable supports modern QSFP28 ports and 100G speeds, helping you prepare for next-gen infrastructure.

• Low power consumption: Efficient design helps minimise operational cost and thermal load inside data centres.

• Simplified cabling: 10-metre length strikes a balance between reach and minimising excess slack, reducing cable management complexity.

Typical Use Cases

The Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28 is ideally suited for:

• Data centre spine and leaf architecture: Connecting QSFP28 ports between switches/fabric.

• High-performance computing (HPC) clusters: Supporting 100G or more interconnections across racks or shelves.

• Enterprise core/backbone networks: Where 100G links are required but distances are moderate (within the same room or data hall).

• Storage Area Networks (SANs) or network-attached storage (NAS) requiring high bandwidth low latency.

• Cloud environments and hyper-scale operations where efficient 100G links reduce link count and improve rack density.

Installation & Management Best Practices

To ensure optimal performance of your Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28, follow these tips:

• Before connecting, clean the fiber ends and ensure the QSFP28 ports are free of dust.

• Respect the minimum bend radius of the cable; avoid tight loops that could degrade performance.

• Label each end clearly (port numbers, direction) to ease future maintenance.

• Route the cable through cable management trays or guides to avoid tangling with other cabling and ensure adequate airflow.

• Test the link after installation to verify the expected throughput and low error rate.

• Monitor temperature around active optical elements; ensure enough ventilation if several cables run in close proximity.

Compatibility & Considerations

When selecting the Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28, check the following:

• Ensure the switch/router/firewall supports QSFP28 ports and 100G active optical cables.

• Confirm that you are deploying within the specified 10-metre reach and that the environment supports multimode fiber.

• Check that the cable is IP/EOL compatible with your platform — many vendors encode EEPROM info for compatibility.

• Consider future growth: If you expect links beyond 10 metres or into separate rooms, you might need single-mode or breakout cables.

Environmental & Safety Compliance

The Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28 adheres to environmental and safety standards including RoHS and CE certification. The use of multimode AOC means less risk of signal degradation due to external electrical interference, and the lower power consumption helps reduce thermal load inside racks.

Conclusion

To summarise, the Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28 Multi-Mode 100Gbps Active Optical Cable is a high-end, high-efficiency connectivity solution for today’s demanding network environments. Whether you’re operating a data centre, enterprise WAN, or high-density switch fabric, this cable provides the performance, reliability and future-proofing needed to keep your network running at peak capacity.

With full-duplex 100G support, QSFP28 interfaces, 10-metre reach, and active optical technology, the Juniper AOC-100G 10M QSFP28 to QSFP28 is the go-to option when you need compact, efficient, and robust high-speed links. Deploying it means fewer cables, less heat, lower power, and a smarter infrastructure designed for next-generation bandwidth demands.