Black Box PCIE Network Interface Adapter SX LC

The Black Box PCIE Network Interface Adapter SX LC is a purpose-built, one-port PCI‑Express fiber NIC designed to scale with advanced networks while staying compatible through operating system upgrades. Featuring SX multi‑mode fiber with LC connectors, this card is ideal for high-density racks and industrial deployments where reliable, long‑haul fiber connectivity is essential. Its compact form factor fits neatly into standard servers and industrial PCs, helping you optimize space in crowded data centers and control rooms without compromising performance. Built to handle demanding environments, the SX LC adapter delivers predictable latency and robust link integrity, even as network demands evolve. With Ethernet over fiber, you gain immunity to electrical interference and reduced signal loss over distance, making it a smart choice for storage networks, industrial automation, edge computing, and backbone links. In short, this PCIe NIC provides a durable, scalable, and easy-to-manage fiber solution that integrates smoothly with a wide range of hardware and software ecosystems.

• Scalability and OS compatibility: Designed to grow with your network, this one-port PCIe fiber NIC emphasizes compatibility across operating system updates and server refresh cycles. Its broad driver support helps minimize downtime when migrating between Windows, Linux, or other enterprise platforms, ensuring your investment remains viable as software ecosystems evolve. This adaptability is particularly valuable in data centers where servers are refreshed periodically or where mixed environments demand a single, reliable NIC that behaves consistently across platforms.
• Fiber optics SX LC for dense, reliable links: The SX (short‑reach) multi‑mode fiber interface with LC connectors is optimized for high-density rack deployments. The LC duplex connector provides a compact, organization-friendly cabling solution that reduces cross‑slip and simplifies management in crowded cabinets. Fiber technology offers intrinsic advantages over copper, including lower susceptibility to EMI, lower attenuation over distance, and the ability to operate at higher data integrity in environments with electrical noise or vibration—making it ideal for industrial facilities and data centers that require stable, long‑reach connectivity.
• One-port PCIe interface for straightforward integration: This NIC plugs into a standard PCI Express slot, delivering a straightforward upgrade path for servers and workstation systems. With a single fiber port, you get dedicated bandwidth for a dedicated link, minimizing contention and simplifying network design in environments where cabinet space and airflow are at a premium. The card’s nonintrusive profile helps maintain airflow and cooling efficiency in densely populated racks, while its simple installation process reduces maintenance windows and expedites deployment in large-scale projects.
• Industrial-grade reliability and rugged design: Built to endure the constraints of industrial applications, this adapter emphasizes robustness. The fiber-based connection eliminates many of the issues associated with copper Ethernet in harsh environments, including electrical noise and grounding concerns. The SX LC configuration supports stable, long‑distance links across manufacturing floors, data centers, or field installations where temperature fluctuations and dust are common. The card is designed to deliver consistent performance over time, aligning with service-level expectations in mission-critical networks.
• Easy deployment, monitoring, and management: From initial installation to ongoing operations, this PCIe NIC is designed to minimize complexity. It supports standard driver packages and management tools widely used in enterprise environments, enabling straightforward provisioning, monitoring, and firmware updates. The simple, modular nature of fiber networking helps you scale without escalating overhead, while detailed link statistics and diagnostics aid in rapid troubleshooting and proactive maintenance. This makes it a practical choice for IT teams seeking reliable fiber connectivity with predictable performance characteristics.

Technical Details of Black Box PCIE Network Interface Adapter SX LC

• Specifications: Not provided in the initial product details. For the most up-to-date information, consult the official product page or vendor specifications.
• UPC: Not provided
• SKU: Not provided
• Form factor: PCI Express add-in card
• Port configuration: 1 x optical network port (LC duplex, SX)
• Fiber type: SX multi-mode (commonly 850 nm) with LC connectors
• Data rate: Not specified in available details
• Compatibility: Designed for use with standard PCIe slots in servers and industrial workstations; OS compatibility implied across mainstream operating systems via driver support
• Environment: Suited for industrial and densely populated rack environments; not all environmental specs are listed in the provided information

How to install Black Box PCIE Network Interface Adapter SX LC

Installing the Black Box SX LC PCIe NIC is a straightforward process designed to minimize downtime and disruption to your system. Follow these general steps to ensure a clean, reliable deployment:

• Power down the computer or server and unplug all power sources. Ground yourself to prevent static discharge.
• Open the chassis or rack enclosure to access the PCIe expansion slots. Identify an available PCIe slot that matches your motherboard’s specifications.
• Remove the slot cover or bracket on the chassis where you plan to install the card. Align the PCIe connectors on the NIC with the slot and firmly seat the card into place. Ensure the card is fully engaged and level within the slot.
• Secure the card to the chassis with a retaining screw to prevent movement. Reinstall any cover panels you removed and close the chassis.
• Connect the fiber optic cabling to the LC port on the NIC. Use a clean, conditioned SX multi‑mode fiber cable, ensuring proper duplex orientation and cable management to avoid strain on connectors.
• Power on the system and boot into the operating system. Install the appropriate drivers from Black Box or the vendor’s driver package, following on-screen prompts. After installation, verify the link status in the OS networking utilities and, if necessary, configure IP addressing and VLAN settings to align with your network architecture.
• Run basic connectivity tests (ping, throughput tests) and check for any firmware updates or NIC diagnostics to ensure optimal performance. If your environment requires specific QoS or virtualization features, consult the vendor’s documentation for any virtualization or switch‑side configurations.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the SX LC designation?

A: SX refers to short‑reach multi‑mode fiber, while LC is the connector type. This combination supports efficient, compact fiber links in dense rack environments, typically using 850 nm multi‑mode fiber for moderate distance and high bandwidth.

Q: How many ports does this adapter provide?

A: The model described is a one‑port PCIe fiber NIC, providing a single optical link through the SX LC interface.

Q: What operating systems are supported?

A: The adapter is designed to be compatible with common enterprise operating systems, with driver support typically available for major Windows and Linux distributions. Always verify the latest driver availability on the vendor’s site before deployment.

Q: Can I use copper Ethernet cables with this card?

A: No. This card uses a fiber optic SX LC interface. You will need a compatible SX multi‑mode fiber link to leverage the NIC’s capabilities.

Q: How far can the network reach over SX fiber?

A: Distance depends on the fiber type, transceiver characteristics, and network design. SX multi‑mode fiber typically supports shorter distances than single‑mode, with practical ranges varying from tens to a few hundred meters in many deployments. For precise specifications, consult the vendor’s data and your fiber configuration.

Q: Is the card hot-swappable?

A: In most standard server deployments, PCIe add‑in cards are not hot-swappable. You should power down the system before installing or removing the NIC to avoid hardware damage and ensure data integrity.

Q: Can this card support virtualization features?

A: Virtualization support depends on the driver package and the host environment. Many PCIe NICs offer features such as SR-IOV or virtualization offloads, but you should verify the specific capabilities and driver support for your hardware and hypervisor version with the vendor documentation.

Q: Where can I find the latest driver and firmware updates?

A: Driver and firmware updates are typically available on the vendor’s official website or through your hardware maintenance portal. Always use the latest verified version to ensure compatibility and security.