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How to choose stacked cables and optical modules

Fiber and communications infrastructure knowledge brief Published 26 Jul 2025

Use this reference to prepare product questions for BAGYOU FIBRE. Check interfaces, capacity, protection and installation requirements against the current product documentation.

Stacked cables connect multiple network devices electrically for high-bandwidth, low-latency communication, while optical modules convert electrical signals to optical signals for long-distance transmission.

Stacked Cables

Stacked cables are high-performance electrical data cables used to connect network devices in series, forming a logical stack for centralized management and high-speed data transmission. Their main functions include: Expanding the number of network ports and increasing device connectivity. Providing redundancy and high availability to prevent network outages.

Simplifying deployment and maintenance through centralized management. Supporting advanced applications like virtualization and cloud computing. Stacked cables are ideal for short-distance connections within a LAN, such as in data centers or enterprise networks, offering low latency and high bandwidth.

Optical Modules

Optical modules are photoelectric conversion devices that transform electrical signals into optical signals for transmission over fiber optic cables. They are used for: Long-distance data transmission across floors, buildings, or metropolitan networks. High-speed, high-bandwidth connections where copper cables are insufficient.

Integration with SFP, QSFP, or other pluggable transceivers for flexible network design.

DA

C, AOC, and Fiber ModulesDAC (Direct Attach Copper): Fixed-length copper cables with integrated modules at both ends, transmitting electrical signals. Best for short distances (typically under 7 meters) and cost-effective deployments.

AO

C (Active Optical Cable): Fixed-length optical cables with integrated modules, providing optical transmission for medium distances. Suitable when distances exceed DAC limits. Optical Modules + Fiber Jumpers: Modular approach for long-distance optical connections, allowing flexible deployment and high-speed transmission.

Co-

Packaged Optics (CPO)CPO integrates optical components directly with electronic components like ASICs, reducing the distance between them. This approach improves bandwidth, latency, power efficiency, and scalability, making it suitable for next-generation data centers handling AI and high-bandwidth workloads. Key DifferencesFeatureStacked CableOptical ModuleSignal TypeElectricalConverts electrical to opticalDistanceShort (LAN)Long (cross-floor, WAN)LatencyVery lowSlightly higher due to conversionUse CaseSwitch stacking, port expansionLong-distance, high-speed linksCostLowerHigher, especially with lasers and opticsIn summary, stacked cables are used for short-range, high-speed electrical connections between devices, while optical modules enable long-distance, high-bandwidth optical transmission.

Choosing between them depends on distance, bandwidth requirements, and network architecture, with DACs and AOCs bridging the gap for medium-range connections and CPO offering advanced integration for high-performance data centers.

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How to choose stacked cables and optical modules

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Technical note

This reference is intended for preliminary fiber and communications infrastructure research. Optical interface, fiber type, port or core capacity, electrical input and output, enclosure protection, cooling, installation limits and applicable standards must be verified for the specific project.

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