newest SFP+ Cables offer a much smaller form factor

SFP+ Direct Attach Cables can be used for distances up to 8.5 meters, making them ideal for networking connectivity within a rack and even between adjacent racks.
Over the years of 10 gigabit Ethernet's existence, there have been numerous different form factors and optics types introduced. The oldest, XENPAKs, remain very popular as the install base is large, while the newest SFP+ Cables offer a much smaller form factor and the ability to offer 1G/10G combo ports on hardware for the first time. Like the move from GBIC to SFP the move from XENPAK to SFP+ seems inevitable, but currently there are four standard modules / form-factors available. This is a guide to these module types and optical standards currently available.10GBase-CX1 is the SFP+ copper standard. The standard has a maximum distance of 10 meters, though Cisco currently only offers lengths up to 5m. This is actually a cable with SFP+ Cables, not a module with a separate cable.Notice that the cable is permanently integrated into the SFP+ ends. Because of this, both devices must present Twinax copper cable. While the cables are somewhat inconvenient to work with due to the integration, CX1 modules are used due to a very low cost ($150-$200 per cable), extremely low power consumption (0.25W per cable), and a negligible latency penalty.Notice that the cable is permanently integrated into the SFP+ ends. Because of this, both devices must present SFP+ ports. While the cables are somewhat inconvenient to work with due to the integration, CX1 modules are used due to a very low cost ($150-$200 per cable), extremely low power consumption (0.25W per cable), and a negligible latency penalty.