XL710-QDA2 - Buy It Now @ $279!

[abq]

Hello All,

I am not associated with seller, but looks like a good deal:
Intel XL710-QDA2 Dual Port 40G PCI-e x8 Ethernet Converged Network Adapter | eBay
Prices finally coming down on the Intel 710 cards

 

[moblaw]

isn't the Mellanox MCX354A-FCBT equally as good? It can be bought cheaper.

 

[MiniKnight]

isn't the Mellanox MCX354A-FCBT equally as good? It can be bought cheaper.

Intel has lower power and less driver issues

 

[moblaw]

http://www.mellanox.com/related-docs/whitepapers/CB_Intel_XL710.pdf

"ConnectX-3 Pro EN consumes 50% less power for the same bandwidth compared to XL710. To transfer the same amount of data with XL710 would require multiple ports, thereby using a lot more power"

Ofcourse, everything written on paper isn't exactly to be taken 100% true. But if it is, then there's no real wattage advantage from going with Xl710? The specs also mention compatibility with most Windows/Linux O/S. Though the reality could be different, I assume.

The ConnectX-3 Pro does not support the QSFP+ to 4x SFP+ Breakout cables, you've need the Mellanox Switch for that to work. While the XL710 does support QSFP+ to 4x SFP+, giving you a total of 4x10GB from 1 port, meanwhile the second port is in "disabled mode". There's the advantage on paper for XL710.

 

[Patrick]

We use a ton of CX-3 Pro's in the lab. One annoying "feature" is that the Ubuntu installer does not see them. They will work once the OS is installed but it is a pain. Had a few provisioning service issues due to that.