Silicom PE340G2Qi71: Dual-Port 40GbE NIC with 2x Open QSFP+ Ports (Intel XL710)

Unleash exceptional server networking performance with the Silicom PE340G2Qi71. Built around the reliable Intel XL710 chipset, this PCI Express x8 network interface card delivers robust 40 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity across two Open QSFP+ ports. It’s engineered to maximize data center efficiency by minimizing CPU overhead and power usage, making it an ideal choice for servers, storage systems, virtualization hosts, and high-end appliances that demand deterministic bandwidth and scalable connectivity. With two open QSFP+ ports, you gain the flexibility to deploy direct 40GbE links or breakout configurations to 4x10GbE as your network evolves, simplifying migration paths and future-proofing your infrastructure.

• Two 40GbE Open QSFP+ ports for scalable, high-bandwidth connectivity; supports direct 40GbE cabling or breakout to four 10GbE links, enabling flexible fabric architectures and evolving network designs.
• Intel XL710 chipset delivers robust performance with hardware offloads, reducing CPU overhead and providing solid virtualization support for workloads that rely on fast, consistent network access.
• PCI Express 3.0 compliant host interface (x8) ensures broad compatibility with modern servers and workstations while delivering ample bandwidth for demanding traffic patterns.
• Energy-efficient design minimizes power draw and CPU cycles, helping lower total cost of ownership in dense data-center deployments without compromising throughput or reliability.
• Versatile deployment suitable for server aggregation, storage networking, virtualization environments, HPC, and cloud workloads that require dependable 40GbE connectivity and flexible port configurations.

Technical Details of Silicom PE340G2Qi71

• Ports: 2 x Open QSFP+ 40GbE ports (QSFP+ modules/transceivers not included).
• Chipset: Intel XL710 family, offering high-performance 40GbE control with hardware offloads and virtualization support.
• Host Interface: PCI Express (PCIe) 3.0 x8, designed for reliable, high-bandwidth data paths in servers and appliances.
• Throughput: Up to 80 Gbps aggregated throughput (two 40GbE ports) under optimal conditions, suitable for demanding workloads and multi-VM environments.
• Form Factor: PCIe network interface card designed for install in standard server chassis with PCIe slots.
• Standards & Connectivity: 40GbE support with compatibility to QSFP+ transceivers and corresponding fiber or copper cabling per deployment.
• Power & Thermal: Optimized for data-center use with emphasis on efficient power consumption and stable thermal performance in dense racks.
• Software & Drivers: Supported by major operating systems with Intel XL710 drivers; consult Silicom/Intel for driver versions and OS compatibility.

how to install Silicom PE340G2Qi71

• Power down the server completely, unplug from power, and ground yourself to prevent static discharge.
• Open the chassis and identify an appropriate PCIe slot. The PE340G2Qi71 uses a PCIe 3.0 x8 interface, so choose a compatible x8 slot with adequate clearance and airflow.
• Remove the expansion slot cover if required and insert the Silicom PE340G2Qi71 firmly into the slot until it is fully seated. Secure the bracket with a screw to prevent movement.
• Attach QSFP+ transceivers to the two Open QSFP+ ports if they are not already present, and connect the corresponding fiber or copper cables to your network devices or switch fabric.
• Reassemble the server chassis, reconnect power, and boot the system. Install the latest Intel XL710 drivers for your operating system (Windows or Linux) from the official driver repositories or Silicom/Intel support pages.
• Configure the NIC within the operating system. This may include enabling NIC teaming or link aggregation (LACP), creating virtual NICs, or assigning IP addresses for management traffic.
• Verify that both 40GbE links are detected by the OS, test interconnect performance with representative workloads, and confirm stability under load. Update firmware or drivers if recommended by the vendor.

Frequently asked questions

• What is Silicom PE340G2Qi71? It is a dual-port 40GbE PCIe network interface card built around the Intel XL710 chipset, featuring two Open QSFP+ ports for flexible high-speed connectivity in servers and high-end appliances.
• Do the QSFP+ ports include transceivers? No. Transceivers (QSFP+ modules) and the corresponding fiber or copper cabling must be purchased separately and installed into the Open QSFP+ ports to complete the link.
• What operating systems are supported? The card is designed to work with major server operating systems. Install the appropriate Intel XL710 drivers for your OS to enable full functionality and features.
• Can I use both ports for link aggregation? Yes. The two 40GbE ports can be configured for link aggregation (LACP) or NIC teaming to increase throughput and provide redundancy, depending on your OS and network gear.
• Is virtualization support available? Yes. The Intel XL710 chipset provides virtualization-related offloads and features to help reduce CPU overhead in virtualized environments, improving performance for VMs and containers.