Cisco MCX512A-ACAT NIC (ConnectX-5) — Dual-Port 25GbE PCIe x8 SFP28 Optical NIC

The Cisco MCX512A-ACAT NIC (ConnectX-5) is a high-performance, plug-in network interface card engineered for demanding data centers, servers, and workstations. Built on NVIDIA’s ConnectX-5 architecture, this 2-port 25Gigabit Ethernet adapter delivers exceptional throughput and reliable connectivity through a PCI Express x8 interface and optical fiber SFP28 support. With up to 4000 MB/s of aggregate bandwidth, it provides a robust foundation for bandwidth-intensive applications, virtualization workloads, and cloud deployments where consistent performance matters. This NIC is designed to maximize efficiency in multi-tenant environments and to help you scale your network infrastructure as your demands grow. Whether you’re assembling a new data center rack, upgrading an existing server, or equipping a high-performance workstation, the MCX512A-ACAT offers a balance of speed, flexibility, and reliability that IT professionals rely on every day.

• Dual-port configuration: Two 25GbE connections delivered through SFP28 optical fiber allow you to create scalable network links, enabling link aggregation, high-availability configurations, and improved traffic distribution across multiple servers and storage nodes.
• PCI Express x8 form factor: A PCIe x8 plug-in card that fits standard server, workstation, and data-center motherboards, providing a straightforward upgrade path that minimizes chassis changes while maximizing slot bandwidth for fast data transfers.
• ConnectX-5 performance: Powered by NVIDIA’s ConnectX-5 architecture, this NIC is engineered for high-throughput networking with efficient data handling, low latency, and robust compatibility with modern data-center workloads and virtualization environments.
• Optical fiber with SFP28: Supports SFP28 optical transceivers for flexible, long-distance fiber connectivity, enabling fast, reliable links between servers, switches, and storage arrays across distances that copper-based interfaces may not cover.
• Designed for demanding workloads: The MCX512A-ACAT is built to deliver steady, dependable performance for data centers, cloud infrastructure, HPC, and enterprise applications while maintaining compatibility with enterprise-grade hardware ecosystems.

Technical Details of Cisco MCX512A-ACAT NIC (ConnectX-5)

• Get this information from the "specifications" section of the product from https://ec.synnex.com/ using product "UPC" or "SKU" as reference

How to install Cisco MCX512A-ACAT NIC (ConnectX-5)

Installing the Cisco MCX512A-ACAT NIC is designed to be a straightforward process for qualified IT staff. Follow these general steps to add the NIC to a compatible server or workstation and begin using 25GbE connectivity.

• Power down the system and unplug the power supply to ensure safe installation.
• Open the server or workstation chassis and locate an available PCI Express x8 (or larger) slot on the motherboard or PCIe riser card.
• Remove the slot cover and insert the MCX512A-ACAT NIC firmly into the PCIe x8 slot, ensuring the connector engages with the slot and seats fully.
• Secure the card with the chassis screw or retention mechanism to prevent movement during operation.
• Reconnect any necessary power rails if required by your chassis, then close the chassis and reconnect power.
• Install the appropriate NVIDIA/Cisco drivers and management utilities as indicated by your operating system and ensure the NIC is detected by the system.
• Insert SFP28 optical transceivers compatible with your fiber network, connect the fiber cables to the transceivers, and verify link status in the OS and hardware management tools.
• Power on the system, verify the NIC appears in device managers or the system’s PCIe topology, and configure network interfaces, VLANs, and any required offload features or virtualization settings as needed.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the maximum bandwidth of the MCX512A-ACAT NIC? The device provides up to 4000 MB/s aggregate bandwidth across its two 25GbE ports, with individual port speeds of 25Gbps when fully utilized.
• What connectivity does it use? It uses SFP28 optical fiber connectors for high-speed fiber links, enabling long-range connections between servers, storage, and switches.
• What interface does it require? It is a PCI Express x8 plug-in card, suitable for modern servers and workstations with available PCIe slots.
• How many ports does the card have and what type are they? It has two 25Gigabit Ethernet ports, optimized for multi-link configurations and scalable networking.
• Is this NIC compatible with standard data center hardware? The MCX512A-ACAT is designed for enterprise data centers, cloud environments, and high-performance workstations; ensure your server platform supports PCIe x8 and SFP28 fiber connectivity and that you have the appropriate drivers and transceivers.
• Do I need to purchase transceivers separately? Yes. SFP28 optical transceivers are typically sold separately and must be compatible with your fiber network and Cisco/NVIDIA drivers and firmware.