Cisco QDD-400-AOC1M
400G QSFP-DD Active Optical Cable, 1M, Original Cisco
Product Highlights
High-density 400G deployments demand interconnects that keep pace without adding bulk, heat, or complexity. The Cisco QDD-400-AOC1M is an original Cisco 400G QSFP-DD active optical cable that delivers 400 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity over a 1-meter multimode fiber link — purpose-built for short-range connections within and between data center racks.
Terminated with hot-pluggable QSFP-DD connectors on both ends, this AOC uses eight parallel 50G PAM4 optical lanes at 850nm to achieve a full 400Gbps aggregate data rate. Unlike bulky copper direct-attach cables, the QDD-400-AOC1M's thin fiber construction is significantly lighter and more flexible, enabling superior airflow in high-density rack environments where thermal management is critical.
As a genuine Cisco transceiver-class product, the QDD-400-AOC1M is designed for seamless operation in Cisco platforms that support QSFP-DD 400G ports. It is ideal for spine-to-leaf switch interconnects, top-of-rack aggregation, and high-performance computing clusters where every port counts. With FEC performed on the host platform and compliance with IEEE 802.3cd and QSFP-DD MSA standards, this cable integrates cleanly into modern 400G Ethernet fabrics with zero configuration overhead.
Features & Benefits
400G PAM4 Active Optical Technology
The QDD-400-AOC1M utilizes eight lanes of 50G PAM4 modulation at 850nm, delivering a full 400Gbps of bandwidth through a single cable assembly. Active optical technology embeds transceivers directly into each end of the cable, eliminating the need for separate optics modules and reducing total cost of ownership.
Ultra-Thin, Lightweight Construction
Active optical cables are significantly thinner and lighter than copper DAC alternatives. This slim profile simplifies cable routing, reduces bundle diameter, and enables efficient system airflow — a critical advantage in high-density racks where thermal management directly impacts equipment reliability and uptime.
Hot-Pluggable QSFP-DD Connectors
Both ends feature standard QSFP-DD form factor connectors that support hot-swap insertion and removal. This allows network engineers to add, replace, or reconfigure 400G links without powering down adjacent ports, minimizing maintenance windows and maximizing network availability.
Standards-Based Interoperability
The cable is compliant with IEEE 802.3cd, OIF-CEI-04.0, QSFP-DD MSA, and QSFP-DD CMIS specifications. This broad standards compliance ensures predictable behavior across supported Cisco platforms and simplifies qualification in multi-vendor environments.
Original Cisco Quality & Compatibility
As a genuine Cisco product, the QDD-400-AOC1M is factory-programmed and validated for use in Cisco QSFP-DD-equipped platforms. Original Cisco optics eliminate compatibility concerns, streamline TAC support engagement, and ensure consistent performance throughout the product lifecycle.
Deployment Scenarios
Data Center Spine-to-Leaf Interconnects
Connect 400G spine and leaf switches within the same rack or adjacent racks in a modern spine-leaf fabric. The 1-meter reach is ideal for top-of-rack deployments where switches are co-located, delivering full 400G bandwidth with minimal cable clutter.
High-Performance Computing (HPC) Clusters
Link compute nodes, GPU servers, or storage arrays at 400G speeds in HPC and AI/ML training environments. The lightweight AOC design supports dense cabling without impeding airflow in tightly packed server cabinets.
Cloud & Hyperscale Data Centers
Deploy at scale across hundreds of 400G ports in hyperscale environments. The thin fiber construction and low power consumption of AOCs reduce operational costs compared to copper alternatives, while the 1-meter length keeps intra-rack wiring clean and manageable.
Network Equipment Testing & Lab Environments
Establish short-range 400G loopback or point-to-point test links in lab and staging environments. The 1-meter length is convenient for bench testing new switch platforms or validating firmware upgrades before production deployment.
General
Performance
Optical / Cable
Physical
Environmental
Compliance
Compatibility Notes
The Cisco QDD-400-AOC1M is designed for use in Cisco platforms equipped with QSFP-DD 400G ports. FEC is performed on the host platform. Consult the Cisco 400G QSFP-DD Transceiver Module Compatibility Matrix for the latest list of supported switches, routers, and required minimum software versions. The cable is part of the Cisco QDD-400-AOCxM family, which is available in lengths of 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 meters.
Downloads & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
| Part Number | Product | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| QDD-400-AOC3M | Cisco 400G QSFP-DD AOC, 3M | Same 400G AOC technology in a 3-meter length for connections spanning adjacent racks. |
| QDD-400-AOC5M | Cisco 400G QSFP-DD AOC, 5M | 5-meter reach for mid-range intra-row connections while maintaining thin AOC form factor. |
| QDD-400-CU1M | Cisco 400G QSFP-DD Passive Copper DAC, 1M | Passive copper DAC alternative at 1 meter — lower cost but thicker/heavier than AOC. |
| QDD-400G-VR4 | Cisco 400G QSFP-DD VR4 Transceiver | Pluggable transceiver module supporting up to 50m over OM4 MMF — use with separate fiber patch cords. |