Key Takeaways
1. QNAP’s QXG-100G2SF-BCM network expansion card features two QSFP28 slots, providing data transfer rates of up to 2 x 100 Gbps.
2. The card supports RDMA to reduce CPU load and minimize latency during data transfers.
3. It requires a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for optimal performance but is compatible with PCIe 3.0 at lower speeds.
4. QNAP offers a compatible 4.9-ft Direct Attached Cable (DAC) that does not need transceivers.
5. The card is compatible with NAS systems and Windows 11, priced at $999, with limited initial availability expected to improve soon.
QNAP has introduced the QXG-100G2SF-BCM network expansion card. This PCIe card, which is actively cooled, provides extremely fast network connections through two QSFP28 slots, achieving data transfer rates of up to 2 x 100 Gbps. It utilizes a Broadcom 57508 controller.
Enhanced Performance
To lessen the load on the system, this card supports RDMA (Remote Direct Memory Access). This feature is designed to offload the CPU during data transfers, helping to minimize latency. As per usual practice, users must purchase and install the appropriate SFP modules separately according to their specific needs.
Additional Accessories
QNAP also offers a compatible 4.9-ft Direct Attached Cable (DAC) with the model CAB-DAC15M-Q28, which does not require transceivers. The card needs a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for optimal performance, but it can still function with PCIe 3.0, albeit at lower speeds.
Compatibility and Availability
The new QNAP network card comes with both standard and low-profile brackets, which are often essential for NAS systems or rack servers. QNAP also notes that special mounting brackets for certain QNAP NAS models are included. Besides NAS systems like QTS/QuTS hero, this card is also compatible with Windows 11. QNAP states that the QXG-100G2SF-BCM is currently available for an MSRP of $999 in the US. However, it is listed by a limited number of retailers in some areas, but availability is expected to improve in the following weeks.