Description
Low-Cost 10Gbps Switch-to-Switch Connectivity Without SFP Modules
The TP-Link TL-SM5220-1M is a 1-metre 10G SFP+ Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cable that provides a simple, cost-effective alternative to separate SFP+ transceivers and fibre patch leads for short-distance 10 Gigabit connections. With SFP+ connectors on both ends, it plugs directly into any compatible 10G SFP+ port — delivering full 10Gbps throughput with lower latency and lower cost than optical solutions. Ideal for top-of-rack switch stacking, server-to-switch connections, and NVR uplinks in data centres and comms cabinets across Australia.
Key Features
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10Gbps Data Rate: Full 10 Gigabit Ethernet throughput for high-bandwidth switch-to-switch and server-to-switch connections.
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SFP+ Connectors on Both Ends: Plugs directly into any 10G SFP+ port — no separate transceiver modules or fibre patch leads required.
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1 Metre Cable Length: Ideal for short in-rack or adjacent-rack connections where devices are in close proximity.
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Direct Attach Copper (DAC): Passive copper cable design delivers lower latency and lower power consumption compared to active optical solutions.
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Cost-Effective Alternative to Fibre: Eliminates the need to purchase two SFP+ transceivers plus a fibre patch lead for short-distance 10G links.
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Replaces TXC432-CU1M: Direct replacement for the legacy TP-Link TXC432-CU1M DAC cable.
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Wide Temperature Range: Rated for operating temperatures from 0°C to 70°C — suitable for comms cabinets and server rooms.
Common Use Cases
- Stacking or uplink connections between adjacent 10G switches in a comms rack
- Server-to-switch 10G connections in small data centres and server rooms
- NVR-to-switch 10G uplinks in high-camera-count CCTV installations
- Cost-effective alternative to SFP+ transceivers + fibre for in-rack connections
- Connecting TP-Link JetStream 10G switches (e.g. TL-SG3428X, TL-SG3452X) within the same rack
Technical Specifications
| Model |
TL-SM5220-1M |
| Cable Type |
Direct Attach Copper (DAC), Passive |
| Connector Type |
SFP+ on both ends |
| Data Rate |
10 Gbps |
| Cable Length |
1 metre |
| Operating Temperature |
0°C to 70°C |
| Storage Temperature |
-40°C to 80°C |
| Operating Humidity |
10–90% RH (non-condensing) |
| Storage Humidity |
5–90% RH (non-condensing) |
| Replaces |
TXC432-CU1M |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Direct Attach Cable (DAC) and how is it different from a fibre SFP+ connection?
A Direct Attach Cable (DAC) is a fixed copper cable with SFP+ connectors permanently attached to both ends. Unlike a fibre SFP+ connection — which requires two separate transceiver modules plus a fibre patch lead — a DAC cable is a single, self-contained unit. DAC cables are cheaper, consume less power, and have lower latency than optical solutions, but are limited to short distances (typically 1–7 metres for passive DAC).
Will this cable work with non-TP-Link switches?
The TL-SM5220-1M uses standard SFP+ connectors and is designed to work with any switch that has a 10G SFP+ port. However, some switch vendors (notably Cisco and certain enterprise brands) may restrict compatibility to vendor-coded cables. Always verify compatibility with your specific switch model before purchasing.
What is the maximum cable length for this DAC?
This cable is 1 metre in length. TP-Link also offers longer DAC cables in the TL-SM5220 range (3m and 5m variants) for connections between adjacent racks or slightly further distances. For distances beyond 7 metres, an active optical SFP+ solution such as the TL-SM5110-LR is recommended.
Does it require any configuration or drivers?
No. DAC cables are passive devices — simply plug both ends into compatible SFP+ ports and the 10G link will establish automatically. No drivers, software, or configuration are required.
Is this cable suitable for CCTV installations?
Yes. For high-camera-count CCTV installations where an NVR needs a 10G uplink to a core switch within the same rack or cabinet, the TL-SM5220-1M provides a clean, low-cost 10G connection without the need for separate transceivers or fibre infrastructure.
What TP-Link switches is this compatible with?
The TL-SM5220-1M is compatible with TP-Link JetStream switches featuring 10G SFP+ ports, including the TL-SG3428X, TL-SG3428XMP, TL-SG3452X, and TL-SG3428XF. It is also compatible with most third-party switches with standard 10G SFP+ ports.
