HPE FlexNetwork 5520HI/5600HI 8-Port 1/2.5/5/10GBASE-T Module

Elevate your enterprise network with the HPE FlexNetwork 5520HI/5600HI 8-Port 1/2.5/5/10GBASE-T Module. This high-capacity copper module brings flexible, multi-gigabit uplinks to your 5520HI or 5600HI chassis, enabling rapid deployment of 2.5G, 5G, and 10GBASE-T connections over familiar RJ-45 copper cabling. Designed for data networking environments that demand scalable performance without a forklift upgrade, this module delivers bandwidth where you need it most—between core switches, distribution layers, and edge devices—while preserving your existing copper infrastructure. Whether you’re consolidating campus networks, expanding a data center edge, or deploying high-bandwidth edge access, this module provides the speed, reliability, and manageability required for modern workloads.

• 8 x RJ-45 ports supporting 2.5G, 5G, and 10GBASE-T speeds with auto-negotiation, enabling flexible uplinks and edge connectivity across mixed-speed environments.
• Dense, copper-based uplinks reduce cable clutter and simplify deployment by eliminating the need for separate fiber or SFP/SFP+ modules for every high-speed link.
• Designed for seamless integration with HP/HPE FlexNetwork 5520HI and 5600HI switches, delivering a consistent, enterprise-grade data path with reliable performance in campus, enterprise, or data-center edge deployments.
• Supports high-bandwidth workloads with low latency switching, enhanced QoS capabilities, and VLAN tagging to optimize traffic separation, security, and quality of service for mixed applications.
• Engineered for energy efficiency and long-term value, backed by HPE’s support ecosystem and a design that emphasizes longevity, serviceability, and compatibility with existing management workflows.

Technical Details of HPE FlexNetwork 5520HI/5600HI 8 Port 1/2.5/5/10GBASE-T Module

Specifications are not provided in the given product details. For complete technical specifications, consult the official HP/HPE datasheet using your UPC or SKU on the Synnex EC portal. The module is intended to operate as an 8-port copper-based expansion for the HPE FlexNetwork 5520HI/5600HI chassis, delivering 2.5G/5G/10GBASE-T connectivity over RJ-45 cabling. In typical deployments, these uplinks enable high-density access to aggregation layers and core networks, supporting rapid scaling of bandwidth where copper infrastructure is preferred or required by the environment. For precise electrical characteristics, thermal ratings, power consumption, and firmware compatibility, reference the official data sheet and your device’s service documentation from Hewlett Packard Enterprise.

how to install HPE FlexNetwork 5520HI/5600HI 8-Port 1/2.5/5/10GBASE-T Module

Installing the 8-port 2.5/5/10GBASE-T module in an HPE FlexNetwork 5520HI or 5600HI chassis is a straightforward operation designed to minimize downtime and disruption. Follow these general steps to perform a safe and effective installation:

Step 1: Prepare the chassis. Power down the system only if a complete system shutdown is required by your maintenance window or organizational policy. If you are performing a hot-swap in a supported chassis, ensure you follow proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions and remove any loose cables or obstructions from the module slot area.

Step 2: Locate an available expansion slot. Identify the correct bay or PCI-like slot designated for network modules in your 5520HI/5600HI chassis. Verify that the slot is empty and that the chassis supports the 8-port copper module form factor.

Step 3: Align and insert the module. Carefully align the module with the slot, ensuring the connector engages fully with the backplane. Gently push until the module seats securely and any latching mechanism clicks into place to indicate a solid connection.

Step 4: Reconnect interfaces and cabling. Route your RJ-45 cables to the appropriate ports, maintaining cable management and avoiding excessive tight bends. Label ports as necessary for future management and troubleshooting. Reconnect power and any chassis management interfaces if they were disconnected during installation.

Step 5: Power up and verify module detection. If the chassis is powered on, verify that the switch management interface recognizes the newly installed module. Check LED indicators on the module and the backplane for proper operation. If the module is not detected, power down, reseat the module, and retry the detection sequence.

Step 6: Configure ports and policies. Use the standard management interface (CLI or GUI) for your HPE FlexNetwork device to assign VLANs, configure port speed settings (2.5G/5G/10GBASE-T), enable link aggregation (LACP) as needed, and apply QoS policies to meet your network requirements. Validate connectivity with representative devices to ensure uplinks and edge ports are behaving as expected.

Step 7: Save and monitor. Save your configuration to the device’s startup configuration and monitor port utilization, error counters, and latency to confirm the module is delivering the desired performance within your network topology. Regularly review firmware recommendations from HP/HPE to maintain compatibility and security posture.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: Is this module compatible with my HPE FlexNetwork switch? A: The module is designed for HPE FlexNetwork 5520HI and 5600HI switches. Before installation, verify your chassis model and slot compatibility in the official product documentation or with HPE support to ensure correct fit and firmware alignment.
• Q: What speeds do the ports support? A: Each port supports 2.5GBase-T, 5GBase-T, and 10GBase-T with auto-negotiation, allowing flexible uplinks and edge connections across diverse network segments.
• Q: Do I need special firmware to use this module? A: Firmware and software compatibility are important for proper operation. Check the recommended firmware version for your specific switch model and this module in the HP/HPE support portal and apply any updates as advised by HP/HPE.
• Q: Can I hot-swap this module without taking down the switch? A: In supported chassis configurations, the module is designed for hot-swappable installation. Always adhere to ESD precautions and follow your organization’s change-management policy when performing maintenance.
• Q: Does the module provide PoE power on its own? A: The module itself provides data uplinks via RJ-45 copper ports. PoE capability is typically delivered through the switch’s PoE-capable ports or separate power management features, not by this module alone. Plan your PoE topology accordingly.