720205-B21 HPE 7m AOC 40Gb 2x QSFP+ 40 Gigabit Active Optical Cable

Key Features of the HPE 720205-B21 Active Optical Cable

High-Speed 40Gbps Data Transfer

Supporting a 40 Gigabit per second transfer rate, this HPE AOC ensures that high-bandwidth applications operate smoothly. From virtualization to real-time analytics, businesses benefit from faster and more stable network performance.

QSFP+ Connector Compatibility

Equipped with QSFP+ connectors on both ends, the HPE 720205-B21 integrates seamlessly with switches, routers, and servers that support QSFP+ ports. This ensures wide compatibility across modern HPE equipment and third-party networking hardware.

Active Optical Cable Benefits

Unlike passive cables, active optical cables (AOC) feature built-in electronics that improve signal integrity. This enables longer transmission distances with lower bit error rates and higher reliability. The use of optical fiber also makes the cable lighter and easier to manage compared to copper alternatives.

7-Meter Length for Flexible Deployment

The 7-meter cable length is ideal for connecting servers, switches, and storage systems within racks or across adjacent racks. It provides sufficient range for versatile setups while maintaining low signal loss and consistent throughput.

Applications and Use Cases

Enterprise Data Centers

With growing demands for faster data processing, this active optical cable is widely used in enterprise data centers. It supports high-bandwidth interconnects for virtualization clusters, large-scale data analytics, and mission-critical applications.

Cloud Service Providers

Cloud infrastructures rely on rapid and stable interconnects. The HPE 720205-B21 ensures minimal latency and high throughput for servers running cloud-based workloads, improving user experiences and supporting high concurrency.

High-Performance Computing (HPC)

HPC clusters depend on reliable and fast communication between compute nodes. This 40Gb AOC provides the low-latency connections needed for parallel computing, research simulations, and scientific workloads.

Storage Networking

As businesses move to all-flash arrays and hyper-converged infrastructure, network interconnects must handle increased throughput. The 720205-B21 cable provides consistent performance for storage access and synchronization between storage devices.

Reliability and Quality Assurance

As part of the Hewlett Packard Enterprise portfolio, this AOC is rigorously tested to meet enterprise-grade standards. Its build quality ensures consistent operation even in demanding environments.

Reduced Latency and Power Efficiency

By leveraging optical technology, this cable reduces latency compared to traditional copper cables. It also consumes less power, lowering overall operational costs in large-scale data center deployments.

Lightweight and Flexible Design

Optical fiber construction makes the cable lighter, more flexible, and easier to manage compared to bulky copper alternatives. This flexibility simplifies installation in dense networking environments.

Cost-Effective Interconnect Solution

Although optical solutions are often associated with higher costs, this active optical cable strikes the right balance between affordability and performance. It enables organizations to achieve high-speed connectivity without investing in expensive transceivers and fiber patch cords.

Performance Characteristics

• Signal Integrity: Enhanced through active optical components
• Transmission Distance: Supports 7m without degradation
• Bit Error Rate: Low error rates for stable performance
• Latency: Optimized for low-latency communication

Physical and Environmental

• Cable Jacket: Flexible, durable outer material
• Weight: Lighter than equivalent copper-based cables
• Power Consumption: Lower compared to passive copper cables
• Operating Temperature Range: Suitable for standard data center conditions

Comparison with Other Networking Cables

Active Optical Cable vs. Passive Copper DAC

Passive copper direct attach cables (DACs) are cost-effective for short-range connections but limited by distance and flexibility. In contrast, the HPE 720205-B21 AOC supports longer reach, better flexibility, and reduced weight, making it a more versatile choice.

Active Optical Cable vs. Transceiver with Fiber

Deploying separate transceivers with fiber optic cables provides longer distances but increases cost and complexity. The HPE AOC integrates optics and cable into a single solution, reducing costs and simplifying installation while supporting mid-range distances like 7 meters.

Deployment Scenarios

Switch-to-Server Connectivity

The 720205-B21 is commonly used for switch-to-server connections where high throughput and low latency are critical. It ensures servers access data rapidly, supporting virtualized and containerized workloads.

Switch-to-Switch Interconnects

For spine-leaf architectures, this AOC provides consistent performance between top-of-rack (ToR) switches and aggregation switches. It ensures high bandwidth across the networking fabric.

Cluster and Node Interconnection

In high-performance computing environments, compute nodes must communicate efficiently. This active optical cable ensures stable, high-bandwidth communication across clustered systems.

Future-Proofing with 40GbE Technology

Scalability for Expanding Networks

As organizations scale, their networking infrastructure must support greater demands. The HPE 720205-B21 offers scalability through its 40GbE capacity, supporting current and future workloads.

Bridge to Next-Generation Ethernet

While 100GbE and higher speeds are emerging, 40GbE remains a strong choice for many enterprises. This cable provides a cost-effective stepping stone to higher bandwidths, ensuring compatibility with current-generation hardware.