900-9X6AF-0018-MT2 Nvidia HDR IB 200GbE single-port QSFP56 PCIe Ethernet Adapter Card

Overview of the Adapter Card

The NVIDIA 900-9X6AF-0018-MT2 ConnectX-6 adapter delivers ultra-fast networking designed for modern data centers, AI workloads, cloud infrastructure, and high-performance computing environments. Built with a single QSFP56 interface and PCIe x16 connectivity, this high-bandwidth network interface enables reliable, low-latency communication across InfiniBand and Ethernet deployments. Its versatile architecture supports copper and optical connections, offering flexible deployment options across enterprise and hyperscale platforms.

General Information

• Part: 900-9X6AF-0018-MT2
• Brand: Nvidia 
• Product Type: Network Adapter

Core Features and Advantages

• Single-port QSFP56 connector supporting both InfiniBand and Ethernet connectivity.
• High-throughput performance reaching up to 200Gb/s for demanding applications.
• Optimized for AI clusters, virtualization platforms, storage fabrics, and high-speed switching environments.
• Advanced auto-negotiation allowing compatibility with multiple link speeds and standards.
• Compact adapter dimensions designed for efficient server integration.
• PCIe Gen3/Gen4 x16 interface ensuring scalable bandwidth and backward compatibility.

Protocol Compatibility

• Compliant with IBTA specification version 1.4.
• Supports SDR, DDR, QDR, FDR10, FDR, EDR, HDR100, and HDR link speeds.
• Automatic negotiation across various lane configurations for seamless integration.

Ethernet Networking Support

• Extensive compatibility with 200GbE, 100GbE, 50GbE, 40GbE, 25GbE, 10GbE, and 1GbE standards.
• Includes support for CR, KR, SR, LR, ER, and multiple R-series Ethernet variants.
• Backward compatibility with legacy networking environments for flexible upgrades.

Bandwidth and Transfer Rates

• InfiniBand speeds ranging from SDR through HDR for scalable HPC deployments.
• Ethernet transmission options from 1Gb/s up to 200Gb/s.
• PCI Express Gen3/Gen4 connectivity featuring SerDes rates of 8.0GT/s and 16GT/s across 16 lanes.
• Full compatibility with earlier PCIe specifications for legacy server platforms.

Electrical Specifications

• Auxiliary voltage requirement of 3.3V.
• Maximum auxiliary current draw of 100mA.
• Typical power usage around 19.3W when using passive cables.
• Up to 5W available through the QSFP56 port for connected modules.

Airflow

• Passive cable configurations require approximately 350 LFM airflow at 55°C from heatsink to port.
• Optimized airflow paths ensuring stable performance under heavy workloads.
• Active NVIDIA cables may require increased airflow for sustained thermal efficiency.

Environmental Temperature Ranges

• Operational temperature from 0°C to 55°C for standard data center environments.
• Storage temperature tolerance between -40°C and 70°C.

Humidity Levels

• Operating humidity range between 10% and 85% relative humidity.
• Non-operational humidity support up to 90% relative humidity.

Nvidia ConnectX-6 25GbE Dual Port PCIe Network Adapter 

The 900-9X662-0053-ST1 Nvidia ConnectX-6 Lx EN 25GbE Dual Port SFP28 PCIe 4.0 x8 Network Adapter represents a high-efficiency networking solution engineered for modern enterprise infrastructure, cloud computing environments, storage networks, and high-performance data centers. Designed to deliver powerful Ethernet connectivity with enhanced throughput, low latency, and advanced offload capabilities, this adapter addresses the growing demand for fast, reliable, and scalable networking technology. Organizations that require seamless data transfer, consistent performance, and secure communication between servers can rely on this adapter to deliver stable connectivity across demanding workloads.

Built on Nvidia’s advanced network architecture, the ConnectX-6 Lx series emphasizes performance optimization while maintaining energy efficiency and simplified management. It provides dual-port 25 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity through SFP28 interfaces, enabling flexible network design and redundancy. With support for PCIe 4.0 x8 host connectivity, the adapter ensures high bandwidth between the server and network, reducing bottlenecks commonly experienced in legacy networking hardware. Businesses deploying virtualization, software-defined networking, or large-scale storage systems benefit from the enhanced throughput and acceleration technologies integrated into this adapter.

The category of ConnectX-6 Lx network adapters focuses on reliable data transfer, application acceleration, and optimized server performance. Whether used in virtualization clusters, containerized environments, or advanced analytics platforms, these adapters enhance communication efficiency while reducing CPU overhead. Their architecture supports scalable infrastructure development, allowing organizations to upgrade networking performance without extensive redesign of existing systems. By combining hardware acceleration with modern connectivity standards, the ConnectX-6 Lx EN adapter delivers an ideal balance of performance, efficiency, and flexibility for data-driven environments.

Advanced Hardware Architecture and PCIe 4.0 x8 Integration

The architecture behind the Nvidia ConnectX-6 Lx EN 25GbE network adapter emphasizes performance optimization and system efficiency. PCIe 4.0 x8 connectivity allows the adapter to leverage high-speed data exchange between the server motherboard and networking interface, providing the bandwidth necessary for modern workloads such as AI training, big data analytics, real-time video processing, and cloud computing applications. This advanced bus interface significantly increases throughput compared to older PCIe generations, ensuring that data transfer between CPU, memory, and network remains consistent under heavy loads.

Designed with enterprise-grade components, the adapter includes optimized packet processing engines that reduce latency and improve network response times. Hardware-based acceleration offloads many networking tasks from the CPU, freeing processing resources for mission-critical applications. This approach helps organizations maximize server efficiency and improve overall performance across distributed computing environments. High-speed data handling ensures that applications remain responsive, even when dealing with massive data volumes or simultaneous user connections.

The adapter’s architecture also includes advanced error detection and correction mechanisms that enhance network stability and reliability. These features reduce the likelihood of packet loss and help maintain data integrity during transmission. The result is consistent performance across complex infrastructure, including multi-tenant cloud environments and enterprise storage systems. System administrators benefit from simplified deployment processes, as the adapter integrates smoothly into modern server platforms that support PCIe 4.0 standards.

With scalable performance capabilities, this network adapter allows organizations to future-proof their infrastructure investments. As networking demands continue to grow, PCIe 4.0 x8 connectivity ensures compatibility with evolving hardware platforms while maintaining the high bandwidth required for advanced applications. The architecture is designed to support continuous innovation in networking technology, helping enterprises maintain competitive performance standards in rapidly evolving digital environments.

Dual Port SFP28 Connectivity and 25 Gigabit Ethernet Performance

Dual SFP28 ports provide flexible network deployment options and enable organizations to build redundant and high-availability network architectures. Each port supports 25 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, delivering fast and reliable communication between servers, storage devices, and network switches. This dual-port design allows for link aggregation, load balancing, and failover configurations that enhance resilience in mission-critical environments. By distributing network traffic across multiple links, organizations can maintain consistent performance while minimizing downtime risks.

The SFP28 interface offers compatibility with a wide range of optical transceivers and direct-attach cables, allowing IT teams to customize connectivity according to infrastructure requirements. Whether connecting to top-of-rack switches, aggregation layers, or high-performance computing clusters, the adapter provides flexibility for diverse deployment scenarios. High-speed 25GbE networking ensures faster file transfers, quicker database synchronization, and improved communication between virtual machines and containers.

The 25GbE performance level strikes an optimal balance between cost efficiency and high throughput, making it suitable for mid-to-large enterprise environments that require robust network capabilities without transitioning to more expensive ultra-high-speed infrastructure. This performance tier is particularly beneficial for data centers handling virtualization, network storage systems, and real-time analytics workloads. Reduced latency and improved bandwidth ensure consistent application performance even during peak usage periods.

Dual-port connectivity also enables network segmentation and traffic prioritization strategies that enhance security and performance management. Administrators can dedicate individual ports to specific workloads or departments, ensuring optimal resource allocation and improved network visibility. This level of control allows organizations to tailor network configurations to their operational requirements, supporting both high-bandwidth applications and sensitive data transmission.

Hardware Acceleration, Offload Capabilities, and Efficiency Enhancements

One of the defining characteristics of the ConnectX-6 Lx EN category is its advanced hardware acceleration features. Offloading tasks such as checksum calculations, packet segmentation, and encryption processing reduces CPU utilization and improves overall system efficiency. This approach allows servers to handle more workloads simultaneously while maintaining high performance levels. Reduced processing overhead is especially valuable in virtualized environments where multiple applications compete for CPU resources.

The adapter supports advanced offload technologies that accelerate network operations and improve data transfer efficiency. These technologies enable faster packet processing, optimized memory usage, and reduced network latency. As a result, applications experience improved responsiveness and consistent throughput. Hardware acceleration also enhances performance for storage protocols and distributed computing frameworks, enabling faster data movement across clusters.

Efficiency enhancements extend beyond performance improvements. Energy-efficient design principles help reduce power consumption without compromising throughput or reliability. Lower power usage contributes to reduced operational costs and improved environmental sustainability within data center environments. High-density server deployments benefit from the adapter’s efficient thermal design, which helps maintain stable operating temperatures and reduces cooling requirements.

By integrating advanced processing capabilities directly into the network interface, the ConnectX-6 Lx EN adapter provides an optimized networking solution that meets the demands of modern enterprise applications. Organizations benefit from increased productivity, improved scalability, and reduced infrastructure complexity, making this adapter a valuable component of high-performance networking ecosystems.

Virtualization, Cloud Networking, and Software-Defined Infrastructure

Modern data centers increasingly rely on virtualization and cloud technologies to improve resource utilization and operational flexibility. The Nvidia ConnectX-6 Lx EN adapter is designed to integrate seamlessly with virtualized environments, enabling efficient communication between virtual machines and physical networks. Advanced virtualization support allows administrators to allocate network resources dynamically, improving workload distribution and reducing bottlenecks.

Software-defined networking and cloud orchestration platforms benefit from the adapter’s programmable capabilities and hardware acceleration features. These capabilities enable automation, simplified provisioning, and enhanced network management across distributed infrastructure. The adapter supports high-density virtual machine deployments by providing reliable bandwidth and low latency, ensuring consistent performance for applications hosted in virtualized environments.

Containerized workloads and microservices architectures also gain significant advantages from the adapter’s efficient networking capabilities. Rapid scaling and dynamic workload movement require stable and responsive network connectivity, which the ConnectX-6 Lx EN adapter delivers through optimized packet processing and advanced offload technologies. Developers and IT teams can deploy applications with confidence, knowing that network performance will remain consistent as workloads grow.

Integration with modern cloud frameworks enhances operational flexibility and simplifies infrastructure management. The adapter’s compatibility with leading operating systems and virtualization platforms ensures smooth deployment across diverse environments. Organizations building private clouds, hybrid clouds, or multi-cloud ecosystems benefit from improved network performance and streamlined configuration processes.

Security Features and Data Protection Capabilities

Security is a critical consideration in modern networking infrastructure, and the ConnectX-6 Lx EN category incorporates advanced protection features to safeguard data transmission. Hardware-based security acceleration enables efficient encryption and authentication processes, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected during network communication. Secure data transfer capabilities are essential for industries handling confidential information, including finance, healthcare, and government operations.

Built-in security mechanisms help prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of data breaches. Network isolation features allow administrators to segment traffic and enforce strict access controls across different workloads or departments. This segmentation improves visibility and simplifies compliance with regulatory requirements, making the adapter suitable for environments with strict data governance standards.

Secure boot capabilities and firmware protection mechanisms contribute to system integrity by preventing unauthorized modifications to the network interface. These features help maintain consistent and reliable operation while protecting against potential security threats. Administrators can implement advanced monitoring and logging practices to track network activity and identify anomalies in real time.

The adapter’s comprehensive security architecture ensures that performance and protection work together seamlessly. Organizations can deploy high-speed networking solutions without compromising data security or operational stability, enabling safe and efficient communication across distributed infrastructure.

Enterprise Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios

The 900-9X662-0053-ST1 Nvidia ConnectX-6 Lx EN 25GbE Dual Port SFP28 PCIe 4.0 x8 Network Adapter is well suited for a wide range of enterprise applications. Data centers handling large-scale virtualization deployments benefit from its high throughput and low latency, enabling efficient communication between virtual machines and storage systems. Cloud service providers can leverage the adapter’s scalable performance to support multi-tenant environments with consistent network reliability.

High-performance computing clusters and research institutions use this adapter to accelerate data exchange between nodes, improving computational efficiency and reducing processing times for complex simulations. Media production companies and streaming platforms rely on high-speed Ethernet connectivity to handle large media files and deliver real-time content distribution. The adapter’s advanced acceleration capabilities also support machine learning workflows and data analytics platforms that require rapid data movement.

Enterprise storage solutions, including network-attached storage and software-defined storage systems, benefit from the adapter’s optimized throughput and efficient packet handling. Rapid backup operations, disaster recovery processes, and large-scale database synchronization tasks can be completed more quickly and reliably. The adapter’s flexibility allows IT teams to design scalable network architectures that adapt to evolving business needs.

Edge computing deployments and distributed infrastructure also gain advantages from the adapter’s reliability and efficient design. Remote sites requiring stable high-speed connectivity can utilize this adapter to maintain seamless communication with central data centers. Its versatility across various deployment scenarios makes it a valuable networking component for organizations seeking consistent performance and long-term scalability.

Compatibility and Infrastructure Integration

Compatibility with modern server platforms and operating systems ensures that the ConnectX-6 Lx EN adapter can be deployed in diverse enterprise environments. Support for industry-standard PCIe 4.0 slots allows integration into high-performance servers without complex configuration requirements. Administrators can deploy the adapter across multiple hardware platforms while maintaining consistent performance and reliability.

Installation processes are streamlined through standardized form factors and comprehensive driver support. System integrators can quickly incorporate the adapter into new server builds or upgrade existing infrastructure to achieve higher network performance. Flexible configuration options allow organizations to tailor network settings according to specific workload requirements, ensuring optimal performance across different use cases.

Integration with network monitoring and management tools simplifies ongoing administration and troubleshooting. Administrators gain visibility into network performance metrics, enabling proactive optimization and efficient resource allocation. Firmware updates and management utilities help maintain optimal functionality while ensuring compatibility with evolving software platforms.

The adapter’s flexible deployment capabilities make it suitable for both small-scale enterprise networks and large hyperscale data centers. Organizations can deploy consistent networking solutions across multiple locations, improving operational efficiency and reducing management complexity. With comprehensive compatibility and straightforward installation procedures, the ConnectX-6 Lx EN adapter delivers reliable networking performance with minimal disruption.