Unlocking Next-Gen Connectivity: Inside Amphenol’s QSFP Cable Assemblies

As digital infrastructure rapidly evolves, today’s data centers face relentless demand for higher bandwidth, lower latency, and more compact, energy-efficient interconnect solutions. At the core of this transformation lies a critical component: high-speed cable assemblies. High-Speed IO Cable Assemblies (HSIO CA), a dedicated business unit within Amphenol Communications Solutions (ACS), addresses this need with a world-class portfolio of QSFP copper cable assemblies tailored for high-performance computing (HPC), cloud hyperscale, and AI infrastructure.

 About HSIO CA – A Strategic Business Unit of ACS

HSIO CA is a specialized business unit under the Amphenol Communications Solutions umbrella, focused exclusively on developing high-performance copper and optical cable assemblies for next-generation data environments. From system architects to network operators, HSIO CA enables customers to unlock scalable, ultra-fast connectivity for complex network infrastructures.

HSIO CA combines deep signal integrity expertise, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and vertical integration to deliver high-speed interconnects optimized for performance, reliability, and time-to-market.

Explore the full HSIO CA offering at Amphenol HSIO Cables.

 QSFP Cable Assemblies: Engineered for Tomorrow’s Networks

HSIO CA’s QSFP (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable) copper cable assemblies are engineered to support a broad range of data rates—from 10G to 112G per lane, with total throughput up to 400G and beyond. These cables are SFF-8665 compliant and backwards compatible across all QSFP-based platforms.

Whether supporting NIC upgrades, expanding top-of-rack (ToR) infrastructure, or designing high-speed compute clusters, these assemblies are built for:

• High Signal Integrity
• Electrically Consistent Performance
• Mechanical Flexibility for tight routing

 Key Features: Performance Without Compromise

Core Features:

• SFF-8665 Compliance for industry-wide interoperability
• Optimized Auto-Soldered PCB for improved SI margins
• EEPROM Integration for smart system configuration
• Support for NRZ and PAM4 signaling: up to 112G/lane
• Cable Gauge Options: 26–32 AWG
• Proprietary SKEWCLEAR® Twin-Ax Wire for minimized skew
• Customization: lengths, labeling, EEPROM programming
• Passive & Linear Active Cable Options

These features ensure superior performance with minimal signal degradation—ideal for high-density environments with stringent signal routing constraints.

 Technical Excellence: Tested and Validated

All HSIO CA QSFP assemblies are rigorously engineered to meet or exceed industry and environmental requirements:

 What’s New in 2025: QSFP Passive Cable Assemblies

In May 2025, High-Speed IO Cable Assemblies (HSIO CA) expanded its QSFP cable assembly lineup with the formal launch of a QSFP Passive Cable Assemblies supporting the latest 112G PAM4 signaling.

 New Product Highlights

• 112G Passive Support: Copper assemblies now support passive transmission up to 2 meters, leveraging advanced SKEWCLEAR® twin-ax wire to maintain signal integrity and reduce skew.
• 112G Linear Active Assemblies: A new class of linear active QSFP cables was introduced, capable of reliable 112G PAM4 performance up to 4 meters—ideal for extended-reach data center and AI infrastructure.
• Expanded Data Rate Range:
  • 10G, 28G, and 56G passive assemblies in lengths from 1 to 3 meters
  • New linear active 56G and 112G options for up to 3 meters with precise impedance control
• Broad AWG Selection: Available in 26–32 AWG, providing flexibility for routing, SI optimization, and cost-performance balancing
• Part Number Family Highlights:

• Standards Compliance:
  Fully compliant with SFF-8665, and supports specifications from IEEE 802.3by, .3bj, .3cd, .3ck, InfiniBand, and OIF MSA agreements.

 Ideal Applications

The versatility of HSIO CA’s QSFP assemblies makes them a cornerstone for high-speed networking environments:

• High-Performance Computing (HPC)
• Cloud & Hyperscale Data Centers
• Network Interface Cards (NICs)
• Switches, Routers & Servers
• Storage Area Networks (SANs)
• AI/ML Infrastructure
• Low-Latency Trading & Communication Systems

Splitter options—such as QSFP-4xSFP and QSFP-2xQSFP—offer deployment flexibility for hybrid port configurations.

HSIO CA's Packaging, Labeling & Value-Add Services

Each assembly is individually packaged in anti-static bags and fitted with dust covers for secure transport. To support integration, HSIO CA offers:

• Custom Labeling & Branding
• EEPROM Programming
• Bespoke Routing & Cable Configurations
• Engineering Support for Co-Design & Optimization

This full-service approach ensures customers can meet tight timelines while achieving optimal system-level performance.

 Conclusion

When every nanosecond counts, HSIO CA’s QSFP Cable Assemblies empower system designers with high-speed performance, rock-solid reliability, and broad configurability. Whether you're building cloud-scale networks, deploying AI accelerators, or upgrading to 400G+ environments, HSIO CA delivers the interconnect backbone to power the future.

 Explore the HSIO CA portfolio: High-Speed IO Cable Assemblies