TechVirtuoso

Intel has announced the launch of their new Ethernet Server Adapter X520 family, their first 10 Gigabit (GbE) adapter that support “pluggable” optics. Intel claims the additional configuration options in the X520 give administrators “more flexibility in how they deploy 10GbE in their servers and datacenters.”

Previously 10GbE adapters required the purchase of an additional SR adapter to function, the X520 is compatable with SR, LR or SFP+ direct attach cable all from the same card. This allows administrators to switch back and forth after purchase without buying all new cards, just new optics.

The card is based on the Intel 82599 10 Gigabit Ethernet Controller and also has backwards compatible support for 1GbE, which Intel claims is an industry first.