Lenovo ThinkSystem Mellanox ConnectX-5 Ex 25/40GbE 2-Port Low-Latency Adapter

The Lenovo ThinkSystem Mellanox ConnectX-5 Ex 25/40GbE 2-Port Low-Latency Adapter is engineered for data centers, HPC clusters, and mission-critical workloads that demand ultra-low latency, exceptional throughput, and intelligent offloads. This dual-port network adapter combines advanced RDMA capabilities with NVMe over Fabrics offloads and an embedded PCIe switch to deliver unparalleled performance while simplifying topologies and reducing CPU overhead. Built for Lenovo ThinkSystem environments, it optimizes server-to-network interactions and accelerates time-to-insight across demanding applications, from distributed databases to AI workloads and real-time analytics.

• Ultra-low latency with high message rates: This processor-driven 25/40GbE adapter minimizes end-to-end latency to well under 600 microseconds, enabling tighter control loops, faster remote memory access, and rapid response times in latency-sensitive workloads. Its architecture is designed to accelerate messagedriven workloads, multi-tenant virtualization, and high-frequency trading applications where every microsecond matters.
• RoCE v2 RDMA acceleration: RoCE v2 delivers remote direct memory access over Ethernet, dramatically reducing CPU overhead and improving CPU efficiency for data-intensive tasks. By enabling zero-copy networking and direct memory access between nodes, this adapter boosts enterprise-grade applications, scalable storage, and virtualization platforms with minimal CPU contention.
• NVMe over Fabrics offloads for storage traffic: NVMe over Fabrics offloads bring NVMe storage protocols into the fabric, enabling near-storage-class performance across networks. The ConnectX-5 Ex adapter handles NVMe over Fabric offloads, freeing CPU cycles and delivering high-throughput storage access for databases, analytics, and containerized workloads that demand low latency and consistent I/O.
• Embedded PCIe switch for flexible topologies: The integrated PCIe switch reduces chassis cabling and provides flexible, scalable network topologies. This feature eases fabric design, improves routing efficiency, and simplifies cabling in dense data center deployments, helping administrators create more efficient, scalable networks without sacrificing performance.
• Enterprise-grade reliability for Lenovo ThinkSystem environments: Built to meet demanding data-center requirements, this adapter pairs with Lenovo ThinkSystem servers to deliver robust performance, long-term reliability, and strong compatibility with enterprise operating systems, virtualization technologies, and enterprise storage solutions.

Technical Details of Lenovo ThinkSystem Mellanox ConnectX-5 Ex 25/40GbE 2-Port Low-Latency Adapter

• Ports: 2 x 25/40 GbE (QSFP28) dual-port configuration for high-bandwidth networking.
• Host interface: PCIe-based connection designed for high-throughput data paths and compatibility with modern server platforms.
• Key features: Sub-600 microseconds latency, extremely high message rates, RoCE v2 RDMA support, NVMe over Fabrics offloads, and an embedded PCIe switch for streamlined fabric integration.
• Fabric and protocol support: RoCE v2 RDMA over Ethernet and NVMe over Fabrics offloads to accelerate storage and compute workflows across a converged fabric.
• Form factor and compatibility: Designed to integrate with Lenovo ThinkSystem servers and a broad range of data-center networking deployments, with driver and firmware support across common enterprise operating systems.

How to install Lenovo ThinkSystem Mellanox ConnectX-5 Ex 25/40GbE 2-Port Low-Latency Adapter

Installing this dual-port 25/40GbE adapter is straightforward in compatible Lenovo ThinkSystem servers. Follow these steps to ensure a secure, high-performance deployment:

• Prepare the server: Power down the Lenovo ThinkSystem server and disconnect from power. Ground yourself to prevent static discharge. Ensure you have compatible PCIe slots available (the adapter uses PCIe for host connectivity).
• Open the chassis and locate a compatible PCIe slot: Identify an appropriate PCIe slot that matches the adapter’s interface requirements. Remove the slot cover as needed and ensure there is adequate clearance for the card and any potential cooling considerations.
• Install the adapter: Gently insert the ConnectX-5 Ex card into the chosen PCIe slot, applying even pressure until it is firmly seated. Secure the bracket with the appropriate screw to avert movement and vibration during operation.
• Connect network cables: Attach the 25/40GbE cables to the QSFP28 ports on the adapter and connect them to your network fabric or switch infrastructure. Use appropriate QSFP28 cables or DAC (direct attach copper) connections based on your data-center design and distance requirements.
• Power on and install drivers/firmware: Power up the server and install the latest drivers and firmware provided by Lenovo or Mellanox/NVIDIA for your operating system. Follow the vendor's installation guide to ensure RoCE v2 and NVMe over Fabrics offload features are enabled and properly configured.
• Configure and validate: Use the appropriate management tools and OS network configuration utilities to enable RoCE v2 RDMA, set up virtual functions (if applicable), and verify link status, throughput, and latency. Run baseline I/O tests to confirm the expected performance before putting the system into production.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the primary advantage of the Lenovo ThinkSystem Mellanox ConnectX-5 Ex 25/40GbE 2-Port adapter? A: It delivers ultra-low latency, high message rates, and advanced offloads (RoCE v2 and NVMe over Fabrics) with an embedded PCIe switch to simplify network fabric design and improve overall data-center performance.
• Q: How many ports does this adapter have and what speeds do they support? A: It has two ports that support 25/40 GbE per port, offering flexible bandwidth configurations for dense compute and storage workloads.
• Q: What offloads does the adapter provide? A: It provides RoCE v2 RDMA offloads for CPU-efficient networking and NVMe over Fabrics offloads to enhance storage performance across the fabric, reducing CPU overhead and latency.
• Q: Is there an embedded PCIe switch, and why is it beneficial? A: Yes. The embedded PCIe switch enables flexible networking topologies and reduces cabling complexity, improving scalability and reducing overall interconnect latency within dense data-center deployments.
• Q: Which environments is this adapter designed for? A: It is designed for Lenovo ThinkSystem servers and data-center deployments requiring high-performance networking, such as HPC clusters, AI workloads, real-time analytics, large-scale databases, and virtualization-intensive environments.
• Q: What should I consider when deploying RoCE v2? A: RoCE v2 requires proper network configuration, including lossless Ethernet behavior, congestion control, and quality-of-service settings on network switches. Ensure drivers and firmware are up to date and follow vendor guidelines for enabling RDMA on your OS and hypervisor.