How should we choose between AOC, AEC, and DAC for data center high-speed cables?

Question

Accepted Answer

The selection depends on distance, data rate, cost, and power consumption requirements:

Transmission Type
Distance
Cost
Power Consumption
Key Features

DAC
< 2m
Low
Low
Cost-effective; ideal for short in-rack connections

AEC
2&ndash;7m
Mid
Mid
Equipped with equalization and loss compensation; excellent stability

AOC
> 7m
High
Low
Supports long-distance, high-frequency transmission with strong EMI resistance

For AI server-to-switch connections, AOC is recommended; within the rack, DAC or AEC is typically used to balance performance and cost.

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Transmission Type	Distance	Cost	Power Consumption	Key Features
DAC	< 2m	Low	Low	Cost-effective; ideal for short in-rack connections
AEC	2–7m	Mid	Mid	Equipped with equalization and loss compensation; excellent stability
AOC	> 7m	High	Low	Supports long-distance, high-frequency transmission with strong EMI resistance