Connectors

InfiniBand uses Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable (QSFP) cable connectors for QDR, FDR, EDR, HDR, and HDR100 links. Examples of QSFP connectors are shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3. QFSP connectors

_images/infiniband-cables-primer-02.png

QSFP connectors are also used by Ethernet, in 100 GbE and 200 GbE for example. QSFP connectors have improved as speeds and thermal demands have increased but are compatible with previous generations. QSFP28 is the technical designation for lane speeds of 25 Gbps, and QSFP56 supports lane speeds of 50 Gbps.