TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M 3m 10G SFP+ Direct Attach Cable (DAC) Price in Kenya

The TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M, also sold under the newer SM5220-3M designation, is a 3-metre passive 10G SFP+ Direct Attach Cable (DAC) designed for short-distance high-speed connections between compatible switches, servers, routers, storage appliances and other network devices equipped with SFP+ ports.

The cable has an integrated 10G SFP+ connector on both ends, supports a 10Gbps data rate, and uses a passive Twinax copper cable assembly. TP-Link specifically positions the cable as a cost-effective solution for connections within racks and across adjacent racks. 

Unlike optical 10G links, the TL-SM5220-3M does not require separate SFP+ optical transceivers, LC patch cords, fibre adapters or optical wavelengths. Both SFP+ ends and the connecting copper cable are incorporated into one ready-to-use assembly.

TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M Technical Specifications

TP-Link's current regional product pages confirm the 3m cable length, 10Gbps rate, silver-plated copper conductor, integrated SFP+ connectors and environmental specifications above. 

What Is the TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M?

The TL-SM5220-3M is a complete:

SFP+ → SFP+ 10 Gigabit Ethernet cable.

A typical connection is:

10G Switch SFP+ Port
↓
TL-SM5220-3M
↓
10G Server SFP+ NIC

Another common arrangement is:

10G Switch
↓
TL-SM5220-3M
↓
Second 10G Switch

Because the two SFP+ ends are already built into the cable, there is no need to buy individual transceiver modules.

What Does DAC Mean?

DAC stands for:

Direct Attach Cable

A DAC provides a direct electrical connection between two compatible high-speed network ports.

The TL-SM5220-3M consists of:

SFP+ connector → 3m passive Twinax cable → SFP+ connector

TP-Link specifically describes the cable as a passive twin-ax cable assembly. 

10Gbps Ethernet

The TL-SM5220-3M supports:

10 Gigabit Ethernet

over its full:

3-metre length. 

This makes it suitable for high-bandwidth applications such as:

• Server networking

• Network storage

• Switch uplinks

• Data-centre networking

• Virtualization

• CCTV aggregation

• Backup servers

• NAS systems

• Enterprise network backbones

3 Metre Cable Length

The cable measures:

3 metres

or:

3,000mm

or approximately:

118.11 inches.

Compared with the 1m version, the additional length provides more flexibility when connecting equipment:

• Across a network rack

• Between adjacent racks

• From servers to top-of-rack switches

• Between switches mounted at different rack heights

• Between storage appliances and switches

SFP+ Connectors on Both Ends

The TL-SM5220-3M has:

10G SFP+ connectors on both ends.

This means the cable can directly connect two compatible SFP+ interfaces without separate modules. 

Passive Twinax Construction

The TL-SM5220-3M is a:

Passive Twinax DAC cable.

Passive means there is no active signal-conditioning circuitry integrated into the cable.

For relatively short 3m links, passive DAC offers advantages including:

• Low complexity

• Low power consumption

• Low latency

• Simple installation

• Lower cost compared with many optical alternatives

Silver-Plated Copper Conductor

TP-Link specifies:

Silver-Plated Copper

as the conductor material. 

This confirms that the TL-SM5220-3M is an electrical copper connection rather than an optical transceiver.

Therefore, specifications such as:

• 850nm

• 1310nm

• Optical Tx power

• Optical Rx sensitivity

• Single-mode fibre

• Multimode fibre

do not apply.

Watch TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M Video

https://youtu.be/mCL8MWviuOQ

The TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M is particularly useful where two 10G devices are close enough that installing separate optical transceivers and fibre patch cords would add unnecessary complexity and cost. The integrated DAC approach creates a ready-made 10Gbps connection.

Its 3m length gives installers considerably more flexibility than a 1m DAC while remaining appropriate for short data-centre and rack connections. TP-Link specifically recommends the product for short distances within racks and between adjacent racks. 

Because the assembly is passive and uses silver-plated copper conductors, it is a straightforward option for connecting compatible SFP+ switches, servers and network appliances without introducing separate optical components. 

TL-SM5220-3M for Switch-to-Switch Connections

A common application is:

10G Core Switch
↓
TL-SM5220-3M
↓
10G Distribution Switch

This gives the two switches a direct 10Gbps connection.

It can be especially useful where both switches are:

• In the same rack

• In adjacent racks

• Less than approximately 3m apart

TL-SM5220-3M for Server-to-Switch Connections

A server fitted with a compatible:

10G SFP+ Network Interface Card

can connect directly to a switch.

Example:

Server SFP+ NIC → TL-SM5220-3M → 10G Switch

This can provide substantial bandwidth for:

• Virtual machines

• Databases

• Backups

• Shared storage

• Video processing

• Cloud applications

TL-SM5220-3M for Data Centres

DAC cables are particularly useful in data centres because many high-speed network connections occur over only a few metres.

Applications include:

• Top-of-rack switches

• Leaf switches

• Servers

• NAS systems

• Storage appliances

• Firewalls

• Routers

• Hypervisors

• Backup infrastructure

TL-SM5220-3M for Adjacent Racks

TP-Link specifically highlights:

connections within racks and across adjacent racks

as a suitable use case. 

The 3m version offers considerably more routing flexibility than the 1m version when devices are installed in separate but nearby cabinets.

TL-SM5220-3M for NAS Storage

A NAS equipped with compatible SFP+ connectivity can use the DAC for high-speed access to the network.

Possible applications include:

• Central file storage

• Video editing

• Backup storage

• Database storage

• Media production

• Virtual machine storage

TL-SM5220-3M for CCTV Networks

High-capacity surveillance networks may require 10G aggregation between:

• Core switches

• NVRs

• Recording servers

• CCTV aggregation switches

• Video analytics servers

The TL-SM5220-3M can provide a short 10G connection where both endpoints offer compatible SFP+ ports.

No Separate Fibre Modules Required

A normal 10G optical connection could require:

SFP+ transceiver
+
fibre patch cable
+
SFP+ transceiver

The TL-SM5220-3M replaces these components with:

one complete DAC assembly.

This can reduce both component count and installation complexity.

No Fibre Patch Cord Required

The TL-SM5220-3M does not require:

• OM3 patch cord

• OM4 patch cord

• OS2 patch cord

• LC adapters

• Fibre ODF

• Fibre cleaning for the DAC connection itself

It provides direct electrical connectivity between SFP+ ports.

TL-SM5220-3M vs TL-SM5220-1M

Choose the 1m version where equipment is very close together.

Choose the 3m version when additional rack-routing flexibility is required.

TL-SM5220-3M vs 10GBase-SR

TL-SM5220-3M vs SM5110-LR

TL-SM5220-3M vs TL-SM5310-T

DAC vs Fibre for 10G Networking

Choose DAC when:

• Devices are close together.

• Both devices have compatible SFP+ ports.

• The route is within 3m.

• Low component count is important.

• You want a simple rack connection.

Choose fibre when:

• Distance exceeds DAC reach.

• Links pass between buildings.

• Electrical isolation is important.

• Fibre infrastructure already exists.

• The route extends hundreds of metres or kilometres.

DAC vs 10G RJ45

A DAC directly connects:

SFP+ → SFP+

whereas 10GBase-T connects through:

RJ45 → twisted-pair copper cable.

DAC is particularly appropriate when both endpoints already use SFP+ interfaces.

RJ45 may be preferable when one device only provides a 10GBase-T copper Ethernet port.

DAC vs Active Optical Cable

An AOC – Active Optical Cable combines optical transceiver electronics and fibre into a fixed assembly.

A DAC uses copper Twinax.

For short connections, DAC typically offers:

• Lower cost

• Low power consumption

• Simple installation

AOC becomes attractive where longer cable runs or lighter cabling are needed.

Passive DAC vs Active DAC

The TL-SM5220-3M is:

Passive. 

A passive DAC has no active electronic signal-conditioning components in the cable.

An active DAC contains additional electronics to improve signal transmission over greater electrical distances.

Does TL-SM5220-3M Use Fibre?

No.

The cable uses:

silver-plated copper conductors. 

Does TL-SM5220-3M Use LC Connectors?

No.

Both ends terminate in:

SFP+ connectors.

Does TL-SM5220-3M Use RJ45?

No.

It is not an Ethernet patch cord and does not use RJ45 plugs.

Does TL-SM5220-3M Have a Wavelength?

No.

Optical wavelengths such as:

• 850nm

• 1270nm

• 1310nm

• 1550nm

do not apply to a copper DAC.

Does TL-SM5220-3M Require DDM?

It is a passive electrical DAC rather than a conventional optical module, so optical DDM measurements such as Tx/Rx optical power are not applicable.

Low-Latency Short Links

Because the TL-SM5220-3M provides a direct electrical SFP+ connection, it is well suited to high-performance short-distance applications where minimizing unnecessary conversion stages is beneficial.

This can be useful for:

• Server clusters

• Storage

• Virtualization

• High-performance computing

• Low-latency enterprise networking

SFP+ Compatibility

Both endpoints need compatible:

10G SFP+ interfaces.

Do not assume that every port with an SFP-shaped cage supports DAC cables.

For example, TP-Link explicitly notes that the SFP port on its ER7212PC does not support direct-attach cables including the SM5220-1M and SM5220-3M. 

Always check the exact switch, router or NIC compatibility before deployment.

Can It Work in a 1G SFP Port?

Do not assume so.

The TL-SM5220-3M is specified as a:

10G SFP+ Direct Attach Cable.

Use it with supported SFP+ interfaces.

Can It Work in an SFP28 Port?

Potentially, where the host SFP28 port supports 10G SFP+ operation and DAC cables.

Compatibility depends on the exact network equipment.

Can It Work in a QSFP+ Port?

Not directly.

QSFP+ uses a different physical connector and form factor.

Operating Temperature

TP-Link specifies:

0°C to 70°C. 

Storage Temperature

The currently published TP-Link regional HTML pages specify:

-40°C to 80°C. 

Hardware revisions and newer documentation may differ slightly, so exact revision documentation should be checked where environmental limits are critical.

Operating Humidity

TP-Link specifies:

10% to 90% RH non-condensing. 

Storage Humidity

The storage range is:

5% to 90% RH non-condensing. 

Plug Dimensions

Each integrated SFP+ plug measures approximately:

57.5 × 13.55 × 8.55mm. 

Overall Cable Length

The complete assembly measures approximately:

3,000mm / 118.11 inches. 

TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M Product Versions

TP-Link uses both:

TL-SM5220-3M

and:

SM5220-3M

in its current regional product catalogues. The Australian product page, for example, explicitly displays SM5220-3M (TL-SM5220-3M) and currently lists V1 and V1.2 hardware variants. 

TP-Link's US page marks the older TL-SM5220-3M version as End of Life, while other regional TP-Link sites continue to list SM5220-3M/TL-SM5220-3M variants. 

When buying, confirm:

• Exact model designation

• Hardware revision

• Warranty

• Host compatibility

TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M Price in Kenya

The TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M price in Kenya varies with supplier, hardware revision, VAT and stock availability.

Current Senetic Kenya category listings show approximately:

TL-SM5220-3M: KES 4,102.12 excluding VAT

or:

KES 4,758.46 including VAT. 

The newer SM5220-3M listing on the same Kenyan supplier currently appears at approximately:

KES 4,319.07 excluding VAT

or:

KES 5,010.12 including VAT. 

A dedicated SM5220-3M product listing has also recently shown around KES 4,379.57 net / KES 5,080.30 gross, showing that prices can fluctuate. 

Approximate TL-SM5220-3M Price in Kenya

These are third-party Kenyan market references, not fixed Fiber Optics Kenya selling prices.

Contact Fiber Optics Kenya for the current TL-SM5220-3M / SM5220-3M price and availability.

TL-SM5220-1M vs TL-SM5220-3M Price

The 3m cable generally costs more than the 1m version because of the additional cable length.

Choose based on actual equipment spacing rather than purchasing unnecessary cable length.

For very close devices:

1m DAC

may provide cleaner rack management.

For wider rack placement:

3m DAC

provides more routing flexibility.

Installation Guide

Installing the TL-SM5220-3M is straightforward:

1. Confirm both devices have compatible 10G SFP+ ports.

2. Confirm the ports support Direct Attach Copper cables.

3. Remove any protective covers.

4. Insert one SFP+ end into the first device.

5. Insert the second end into the other device.

6. Ensure both connectors are fully seated.

7. Route the cable without sharp bends or crushing.

8. Configure port speed if required.

9. Verify the 10G link.

Recommended Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions About TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M

What is the TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M?

It is a 3m passive 10G SFP+ Direct Attach Cable with SFP+ connectors on both ends. 

What speed does it support?

10Gbps. 

How long is the cable?

3 metres.

How long is 3m in millimetres?

3,000mm.

How long is it in inches?

Approximately 118.11 inches. 

Is it a DAC cable?

Yes.

What does DAC stand for?

Direct Attach Cable.

Is it passive?

Yes. TP-Link describes it as a passive Twinax cable assembly. 

Is it Twinax?

Yes.

What conductor does it use?

Silver-plated copper. 

Is it fibre optic?

No.

Does it use single-mode fibre?

No.

Does it use multimode fibre?

No.

Does it need OM3?

No.

Does it need OM4?

No.

Does it need OS2 fibre?

No.

What connectors does it use?

Integrated SFP+ connectors on both ends. 

Does it use LC?

No.

Does it use SC?

No.

Does it use RJ45?

No.

Does it have a wavelength?

No. It uses electrical copper transmission.

Do I need separate SFP+ modules?

No.

Do I need a fibre patch cord?

No.

Can TL-SM5220-3M connect two switches?

Yes, provided both switches have compatible SFP+ ports.

Can it connect a server and switch?

Yes.

Can it connect a router and switch?

Yes, where both devices support compatible SFP+ DAC connections.

Can it connect a NAS?

Yes, if the NAS has a compatible SFP+ interface.

Is it suitable for data centres?

Yes.

Is it suitable for server rooms?

Yes.

Is it suitable for network cabinets?

Yes.

Is it suitable for same-rack connections?

Yes.

Is it suitable for adjacent racks?

Yes. TP-Link specifically identifies adjacent-rack connectivity as a suitable use. 

Can it connect devices 1m apart?

Yes.

Can it connect devices 2m apart?

Yes, provided the cable can be safely routed.

Can it connect devices 3m apart?

Potentially, but allow sufficient routing slack; the cable's total length is 3m.

Can it connect devices 10m apart?

No. Use a suitable longer-distance connection.

Can it connect buildings?

No. Fibre is normally a much better choice for building-to-building networking.

Does it support 10 Gigabit Ethernet?

Yes.

Does it support 25G?

No. TP-Link rates the cable at 10Gbps. 

Does it support 40G?

No.

Does it support 100G?

No.

Can it work in a 1G SFP port?

Do not assume so. It is intended for compatible 10G SFP+ interfaces.

Can it work in an SFP28 port?

Potentially where the host supports 10G SFP+ DAC operation.

Can it work in QSFP+?

Not directly.

Is TL-SM5220-3M better than TL-SM5220-1M?

Performance is essentially the same at the published 10Gbps rate. The main difference is cable length.

Why choose the 3m version?

Choose it when the 1m version does not provide enough routing distance between devices.

Is DAC better than fibre?

For short same-rack links, DAC can be simpler and more economical. For longer distances, fibre is generally more suitable.

Is DAC better than 10GBase-T RJ45?

It depends on the equipment. DAC is particularly convenient when both endpoints already have SFP+ ports.

Does it require external power?

No external power adapter is required.

Does it support optical DDM?

Optical DDM values such as Tx/Rx optical power do not apply because this is not an optical transceiver.

Can I test it using an Optical Power Meter?

No.

Can I test it using an OTDR?

No.

Can I test it using a VFL?

No.

What is its operating temperature?

0°C to 70°C.

What is its storage temperature?

Current TP-Link regional HTML pages specify -40°C to 80°C. 

What is its operating humidity?

10%–90% RH non-condensing. 

What is its storage humidity?

5%–90% RH non-condensing. 

What are the plug dimensions?

Approximately 57.5 × 13.55 × 8.55mm. 

Is TL-SM5220-3M End of Life?

TP-Link's US page marks the older TL-SM5220-3M as End of Life, while TP-Link still lists newer SM5220-3M (TL-SM5220-3M) revisions in other regions. 

Is there a newer designation?

Yes. TP-Link increasingly lists the product as SM5220-3M (TL-SM5220-3M). 

Does every TP-Link SFP port support it?

No. Host compatibility must be checked. TP-Link specifically notes that the ER7212PC SFP port does not support its DAC cables. 

What is the TL-SM5220-3M price in Kenya?

Current third-party Kenyan listings are roughly KES 4,102–4,380 excluding VAT and about KES 4,758–5,080 including VAT, depending on model designation and listing. 

Is that Fiber Optics Kenya's exact selling price?

No. These are third-party market references. Contact Fiber Optics Kenya for the current quote.

Do you supply the 1m TL-SM5220-1M?

Yes, subject to stock availability.

Do you supply 10G SFP+ modules?

Yes.

Do you supply 10GBase-SR modules?

Yes, subject to availability.

Do you supply 10GBase-LR modules?

Yes, subject to availability.

Do you supply 10GBase-T RJ45 SFP+ modules?

Yes.

Can businesses and ISPs order in bulk?

Yes. Bulk supply is suitable for ISPs, enterprises, data centres, CCTV integrators and network contractors.

Do you deliver outside Nairobi?

Yes. Fiber Optics Kenya supplies networking and fibre optic equipment throughout Kenya.

Why Buy TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M from Fiber Optics Kenya?

Contact Fiber Optics Kenya

Fiber Optics Kenya
Lyric House, 7th Floor Room S9
Kimathi Street, Nairobi

Phone: +254 704 991 492
Email: info@fibreopticskenya.co.ke

The TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M / SM5220-3M 3m 10G SFP+ Direct Attach Cable provides a simple and cost-effective way to establish 10 Gigabit Ethernet connections over short distances. It combines two integrated SFP+ ends with a 3-metre passive Twinax cable and uses silver-plated copper conductors, eliminating the need for separate optical transceivers and fibre patch cords. 

Its 3m length makes it particularly useful for server-to-switch, switch-to-switch and storage connections within network racks and between adjacent racks, while offering more routing flexibility than the 1m version.

Current Kenyan third-party listings put the TL-SM5220-3M / SM5220-3M at roughly KES 4,102–4,380 excluding VAT and KES 4,758–5,080 including VAT, although prices and stock can change.

Contact Fiber Optics Kenya for the current TP-Link TL-SM5220-3M price in Kenya, 1m and 3m 10G DAC cables, SFP+ transceivers, 10G switches, bulk orders and nationwide delivery.