NVIDIA ConnectX-6 MCX653105A-ECAT InfiniBand Network Interface Card
Premium Performance Network Card for Demanding Applications
The NVIDIA ConnectX-6 MCX653105A-ECAT represents the cutting edge in network interface card technology, delivering exceptional 200Gb/s per port performance for the most data-intensive environments. This advanced InfiniBand adapter card combines ultra-low latency, high message rates, and innovative in-network computing capabilities to accelerate HPC, AI, cloud, and enterprise workloads while significantly reducing CPU overhead.
Technical Specifications
| Specification Category | Details |
| Model & Interface | MCX653105A-ECAT, PCIe Gen 3.0/4.0 x16 |
| Network Performance | Dual-port 200Gb/s InfiniBand, 215M messages/sec |
| Protocol Support | InfiniBand, Ethernet, RoCE, NVMe-oF |
| Security Features | Hardware AES-XTS 256/512-bit encryption |
| Virtualization | SR-IOV with 1,000 VFs, NPAR support |
| Form Factor | Low-profile PCIe with standard and short brackets |
Advanced Technology Implementation
The ConnectX-6 network card incorporates several groundbreaking technologies that set it apart from conventional network interface cards:
In-Network Computing
Revolutionary approach that processes data within the network fabric, dramatically reducing latency and CPU utilization for improved overall system efficiency.
Hardware Offload Engine
Comprehensive offloading of network functions including RDMA, encryption, TCP/IP, and NVMe over Fabrics, freeing host processors for application workloads.
Advanced Quality of Service
Sophisticated traffic management with programmable QoS, congestion control, and packet pacing with sub-nanosecond accuracy.
Optimal Application Environments
The ConnectX-6 network interface card delivers exceptional performance across multiple demanding use cases:
- High-Performance Computing Clusters: Provides the high-bandwidth, low-latency interconnect needed for scientific simulations and engineering applications
- Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure: Accelerates deep learning training cycles with efficient GPU-to-GPU communication
- Cloud Data Centers: Enhances virtualization density and performance while reducing host CPU utilization
- Storage Area Networks: Optimizes NVMe over Fabrics implementations for high-speed storage access
- Financial Services Platforms: Delivers the ultra-low latency required for high-frequency trading systems
- Media & Entertainment Workflows: Supports high-resolution video processing and rendering pipelines
Performance Advantages
The ConnectX-6 NIC card provides measurable benefits over previous generation adapters and competitive solutions:
Throughput Improvement
2x higher bandwidth compared to previous generation 100Gb/s adapters
CPU Efficiency
Up to 30% reduction in host CPU utilization through advanced offloads
Latency Reduction
Sub-microsecond latency for improved application responsiveness
Power Efficiency
Improved performance-per-watt with Energy Efficient Ethernet support
Compatibility & Integration
The ConnectX-6 network card maintains broad compatibility with industry-standard platforms and software:
- Operating Systems: Comprehensive driver support for RHEL, SLES, Ubuntu, Windows Server, VMware ESXi
- Server Platforms: Compatibility with x86, POWER, and ARM-based server architectures
- PCI Express: Support for Gen 3.0 and 4.0 specifications with backward compatibility
- Network Infrastructure: Interoperability with leading InfiniBand and Ethernet switching platforms
- Management Systems: Integration with industry-standard management protocols including NC-SI and PLDM
- Development Environments: Support for popular HPC libraries including HPC-X, OpenMPI, and MVAPICH
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes the ConnectX-6 different from standard network interface cards?
A: The ConnectX-6 incorporates innovative in-network computing technology that processes data within the network fabric, significantly reducing latency and CPU overhead compared to conventional NIC cards while delivering exceptional 200Gb/s performance.
Q: Can this InfiniBand adapter operate in standard Ethernet environments?
A: Yes, the ConnectX-6 network card supports both InfiniBand and Ethernet protocols, providing deployment flexibility across different network infrastructures without compromising performance.
Q: What security features does this network card include?
A: The adapter features hardware-accelerated AES-XTS 256/512-bit encryption with FIPS compliance, ensuring data security without impacting performance, making it an ideal choice for sensitive workloads.
Q: How does this network interface card benefit virtualized environments?
A: The ConnectX-6 offers advanced SR-IOV virtualization support with up to 1,000 virtual functions per port, significantly improving virtualization density and performance while reducing host CPU overhead.
Implementation Guidance
For optimal performance and reliability when deploying the ConnectX-6 network card:
- Ensure adequate system cooling to maintain optimal operating temperatures during sustained high-performance operation
- Verify compatibility with existing network infrastructure, including switches, cables, and transceivers
- Plan for appropriate driver installation and firmware updates to access the latest features and performance enhancements
- Review power requirements and ensure adequate system capacity for the additional power draw during peak operation
- Consider implementation of NVIDIA GPUDirect technologies for enhanced GPU-to-GPU communication performance
- Evaluate network topology to maximize the benefits of the advanced routing and congestion control capabilities
Company Profile
With over a decade of industry expertise, our company operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities supported by a highly skilled technical team. We have established a strong reputation for delivering premium networking solutions to a global clientele across various sectors. Our comprehensive product portfolio includes leading brands such as Mellanox, Ruckus, Aruba, and Extreme Networks, featuring an extensive range of network switches, adapters, wireless solutions, and connectivity components.
Maintaining an inventory exceeding ten million units, we ensure reliable supply chain management and responsive customer support. Our dedicated technical team provides 24/7 assistance, ensuring successful implementation and operation of all deployed solutions. We pride ourselves on offering competitive pricing without compromising on quality or service delivery, building long-term relationships with clients worldwide through consistent performance and reliability.
