Network Controllers, Network Teaming Features

Network Controllers

The server board includes two integrated onboard Network Interface Controllers (NICs).

One NIC is a 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX network solution based on the Intel 82550PM single-chip Fast Ethernet PCI Bus Controller. As a PCI bus master, the controller can burst data at up to 132 MB/s. The controller contains two receive and transmit FIFO buffers that prevent data overruns or underruns while waiting for access to the PCI bus. The controller has the following:

•32-bit PCI bus master interface (direct drive of bus), compatible with PCI Bus Specification, Revision 2.2

•Chained memory structure with improved dynamic transmit chaining for enhanced performance

•Programmable transmit threshold for improved bus utilization

•Early receive interrupt for concurrent processing of receive data

•On-chip counters for network management

•Auto-detect and auto-switching for 10 or 100 Mbps network speeds

•Support for both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps networks, capable of full or half duplex, with back-to-back transmit at 100 Mbps

•Low-power +3.3 V device

•Alert on LAN functionality

The second NIC is an Intel 82544GC Gigabit Ethernet Controller capable of providing 10/100/1000 Mbps data rates. It is a single-chip device containing both the MAC and PHY layer functions.

The 82544GC utilizes a 64-bit/100 MHz direct interface to the PCI-X bus. It is compliant with the PCI Local Bus Specification, Revision 2.2. It also supports the PCI-X extension to the PCI Local Bus, Revision 1.0a.

✏NOTE

If you install a 32/64-bit, 33/66 MHz PCI card in Add-in card slots 1 or 2, you will slow the PCI-X bus to the speed of the card you install. This will also slow the 82455GC’s interface to the PCI-X bus.

Network Teaming Features

The network controller provides several options for increasing throughput and fault tolerance when running Windows† 2000 or NetWare† 6.0 or newer:

•Adapter Fault Tolerance (AFT) - provides automatic redundancy for your adapter. If the primary adapter fails, the secondary takes over. AFT works with any hub or switch.

•Adaptive Load Balancing (ALB) - creates a team of 2 - 4 adapters to increase transmission throughput. Also includes AFT. Works with any 10Base-TX or 100Base-TX switch.

•Fast EtherChannel† (FEC) - creates a team of 2, 3, or 4 adapters to increase transmission and reception throughput. Also includes AFT. Requires an FEC-enabled switch.

Description

SHG2 specifications

Intel SHG2, short for Server High-Performance GPU 2, represents a significant evolution in graphics technology designed to meet the demanding requirements of data centers and high-performance computing applications. Developed to support a range of workloads, SHG2 is particularly optimized for artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics.

One of the defining features of the Intel SHG2 is its impressive processing power. With numerous cores capable of parallel processing, it can execute multiple tasks simultaneously, leading to faster computation times. This architecture makes it incredibly efficient for applications that require heavy calculations and real-time data processing.

The SHG2 also embraces advanced fabrication technologies, moving to smaller nodes that enhance power efficiency while delivering higher performance. These innovations not only allow for improved thermal management but also contribute to the reduction of overall energy consumption, making the SHG2 a more environmentally friendly choice for server operations.

In terms of memory support, the SHG2 offers a robust configuration, accommodating high-bandwidth memory (HBM) that ensures quick access to critical data. This feature is essential for applications needing rapid data retrieval and integration, such as deep learning models where every millisecond counts.

Moreover, the SHG2 is built with compatibility in mind. It integrates seamlessly with existing Intel architectures, allowing organizations to leverage their current investments while upgrading their processing capabilities. This compatibility makes it easier for businesses to enhance their infrastructure without undergoing a complete overhaul of their systems.

Another salient characteristic of the Intel SHG2 is its support for virtualization. This allows multiple workloads to be handled simultaneously on a single GPU, maximizing resource utilization and enhancing overall system performance. As enterprises increasingly adopt cloud-based solutions, the ability to virtualize GPU resources becomes critical.

Security is also a major consideration in the design of the SHG2. Intel has incorporated various security features to ensure that data is protected against unauthorized access and vulnerabilities that could threaten system integrity.

As businesses increasingly turn to AI and machine learning to drive innovation, the Intel SHG2 positions itself as an essential tool for those looking to harness the power of advanced computing. With its impressive features, powerful performance, and forward-thinking design, is a strategic choice for organizations aiming to enhance their computational capabilities and meet the challenges of tomorrow's technological landscape.