Network adapter Level One Games ConnectX-6 VPI adapt card HDR IB 200Gb/s

The Level One Games ConnectX-6 VPI adapt card HDR IB 200Gb/s is a high-performance network adapter engineered for HDR InfiniBand environments. It delivers up to 200 Gb/s throughput and supports VPI (Virtual Protocol Interconnect) to enable flexible deployment as either InfiniBand or RoCE (RDMA over Converged Ethernet). The adapter is intended for data center servers, high-performance computing (HPC) clusters, and latency-sensitive applications that require sustained bandwidth and low end-to-end latency.

Advantages

This adapter combines 200 Gb/s HDR bandwidth with VPI versatility to simplify mixed-protocol infrastructures and consolidate network hardware. It is designed for low latency and high packet-rate performance, which helps reduce application response times in distributed compute and storage environments. The card supports high throughput with efficient CPU offload capabilities, improving server utilization and reducing system overhead.

Suitable for

• Data center servers requiring high-throughput interconnects
• High-performance computing (HPC) clusters and parallel workloads
• Latency-sensitive applications such as financial trading or real-time analytics
• Storage networks and NVMe over Fabrics deployments
• Mixed environments that use both InfiniBand and RoCE

When it may not be suitable

This adapter may not be appropriate for small office or home environments where 200 Gb/s bandwidth and HDR InfiniBand capabilities are unnecessary. It is not intended for systems that lack compatible HDR InfiniBand or VPI-capable switch infrastructure. Integration into existing networks may require compatible firmware, drivers and switch support.

Key specifications

• Interface: HDR InfiniBand with VPI support (InfiniBand/RoCE selectable)
• Maximum throughput: up to 200 Gb/s
• Primary use: server and HPC interconnects for low latency and high bandwidth
• Form factor: PCIe add-in network adapter (standard server card form factor)
• Latency profile: optimized for low end-to-end latency and high packet rates
• CPU offload: supports RDMA and other hardware offload features to reduce host CPU load

How to use

Install the card into an available PCIe slot on a compatible server according to the server manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the system BIOS and operating system support the adapter and install the vendor drivers and firmware provided by the manufacturer. Connect the adapter to HDR InfiniBand or compatible RoCE switches using appropriate HDR-rated cables and confirm link negotiation. Configure network protocols (InfiniBand, RoCE, IPoIB, or RDMA settings) based on application requirements and validate performance with testing tools suitable for high-speed fabrics.

What to consider before purchase

• Compatibility of server PCIe slot and physical space in the chassis
• Availability of HDR InfiniBand or VPI-capable switch infrastructure and appropriate cabling
• Required driver and firmware support for your operating system and hypervisor
• Power and cooling capabilities of the target server environment

Recommendations

For optimal results, pair the adapter with HDR-capable switches and use certified HDR cables. Keep firmware and drivers up to date and test performance in a staging environment before production deployment to confirm latency and throughput meet application requirements.