How to Choose Between DAC & AOC cable?
Based on the comparisons above, I assume you recognize the difference between the DAC cable and the AOC cable. Regular data centers can benefit from DAC and AOC for high-performance network connectivity. Both DAC and AOC are compact, all-in-one solutions for network connectivity. But how do you decide between a DAC and an AOC cable?
Another consideration is the cabling’s flexibility. The DAC is constructed from a thick copper cable whose thickness increases with bandwidth. The thickness of a 100G DAC is bigger than that of a 10G DAC. The AOC’s fiber optic cable thickness, on the other hand, remains fixed regardless of bandwidth. AOC cable (3.0mm in diameter) is frequently one second thicker than typical copper wire (about 6.0mm). In tight spaces, AOCs are easier to install than DACs.
DACs are widely used in high-performance computer systems, large-scale commercial operations, and storage applications, and they are well suited for short-haul transmission. DACs consume very little power, are exceedingly cost-effective, and perform wonderfully. They’re ideal for connecting rack-mounted network servers and storage to top-of-rack switches.
Active optical cables are ideal for long-distance transmission because they can transfer data up to 100 meters, have ultra-high bandwidth, are small and flexible, are resistant to electrical interference, and are easy to install.
Conclusion
DAC and AOC cables are the essential components for a data center’s cabling. Knowing the difference is crucial to choosing the most suitable cable and saving money. Using a DAC cable has the best cost for less than 5 meters; for a distance of more than 5 meters, it is better to use an AOC cable with better performance and price. Remember, selecting a choice is not always straightforward. Taking a few elements into account helps define what you use and how you use the cable.