Tripp Lite N280-03M-28-BK

Overview

The Tripp Lite N280-03M-28-BK is a passive twinax copper cable designed to connect two SFP28 ports at 25 Gigabit Ethernet speeds over a 3-meter distance. It provides a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for linking top-of-rack switches to servers, storage devices, or adjacent switches without the need for optical transceivers. This cable is ideal for data centers and enterprise environments where reliable, high-speed connections are essential.

Key features

• Delivers 25 GbE performance using passive twinax copper, reducing power consumption and heat generation compared to active or optical cables
• 3-meter length offers flexibility for short-reach connections within racks or between neighboring racks, supporting neat cable management
• Compatible with major SFP28 platforms including Cisco, Arista, Dell, Juniper, and Mellanox, ensuring broad interoperability
• Zinc die cast connectors provide robust shielding against electromagnetic interference common in dense data center environments
• Large pull tabs on connectors enable easy removal even in high-density port configurations, simplifying maintenance and upgrades
• Meets industry standards SFF 8432 and IEEE 802.3by for guaranteed compatibility and performance
• Passive design eliminates the need for external power, reducing points of failure and improving overall system reliability
• Durable PVC jacket allows for flexible routing around airflow paths and cable organizers without compromising cable integrity
• Backed by a lifetime limited warranty, providing confidence for long-term deployments in demanding network environments

Key specs

• Data rate: 25 Gigabit Ethernet (25 GbE)
• Cable type: Passive twinax copper
• Length: 3 meters (9.8 feet)
• Connector type: SFP28 direct-attach (male to male)
• Connector material: Zinc die cast
• Standards compliance: SFF 8432, IEEE 802.3by
• Jacket material: PVC
• Color: Black

Connectivity and compatibility

This cable is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of network hardware that supports SFP28 interfaces. It fits well in leaf-spine network architectures, hyper-converged infrastructure clusters, and lab test setups. The adherence to SFF 8432 and IEEE 802.3by standards ensures plug-and-play operation with equipment from leading vendors such as Cisco, Arista, Dell, Juniper, and Mellanox.

• Compatible with SFP28 ports on switches, servers, and storage devices
• Supports direct-attach copper connections without additional transceivers
• Works in high-density rack environments thanks to compact connectors and easy-release pull tabs

Ideal uses and environments

This cable is a strong choice for data center professionals and network administrators who need reliable, high-speed connections over short distances. It fits well in enterprise data centers, university research labs, and cloud hosting facilities where minimizing power consumption and heat output is critical. Its passive design and durable construction make it suitable for environments that demand stable and maintenance-friendly cabling solutions.

Orders are processed within 2 business days, which includes verification, packing, and dispatch. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on destination, total weight, and selected speed. Free shipping applies to carts over $100 (excluding heavyweight items). All available options and final pricing are clearly shown before payment so you can choose the service that best fits your needs.

Deliveries are handled by major carriers such as USPS, UPS, and FedEx. Estimated delivery times are displayed at checkout and may vary depending on service level and location. Please note that these are estimates and can be affected by weather, holidays, or carrier volume. Once your order ships, you’ll receive a tracking number for real-time updates from pickup to final delivery.

Providing an accurate shipping address helps prevent delays, and changes may be limited once the order has been dispatched. P.O. boxes are supported only when permitted by the selected carrier. Packaging and handoff are optimized to protect items during transit, though oversized or high-weight products may require special handling. All shipping methods and any related constraints are clearly shown during checkout.

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Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery. Items must be unused, in the same condition received, and include all tags, manuals, accessories, and original, unaltered packaging. To start a return, please email us for approval. Items sent back without approval may be refused or returned to the sender. If any item is kept, its value will be deducted from the refund.

Non-returnable items include opened TVs, combos, or monitors 37″ or larger, opened computers or software, electronic downloads, opened consumables (film, paper, bulbs, media, ink), custom or modified computers, special-order or “nonreturnable” items, submerged underwater gear, and opened educational media.

After inspection, refunds are issued to the original payment method. Please allow 5–7 business days for the credit to post. Shipping and handling are nonrefundable. If an item is used, incomplete, or not in its original condition, a 30% restocking fee may apply. Direct exchanges are not offered. To exchange an item, please purchase the replacement separately and return the original for a refund.

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We act solely as a reseller. Any product warranty is provided and administered by the manufacturer, not by our store. That means eligibility, coverage, and outcomes are determined by the manufacturer’s policy for each brand and model. Before purchasing, we recommend reviewing the warranty terms on the manufacturer’s website or in the product documentation to confirm what is covered and for how long.

If you need warranty service, please file the claim directly with the manufacturer. They may require proof of purchase, the product serial number, original packaging, photos, or basic troubleshooting. Some brands ask you to register the product or obtain a case number before shipping it for repair or replacement. We don’t submit or approve claims, but we can point you to the correct support links and contact details.

Keep your invoice and packaging in a safe place, and report any functional issues to the manufacturer as soon as they appear. If you’re unsure whether a problem is covered, the manufacturer’s support team can confirm next steps and timelines. While we cannot intervene in decisions or outcomes, we’re happy to provide purchase documentation or guidance so you can move through the warranty process smoothly.

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