Intel X520-SR2 10Gbps Dual Port PCI-E Server Adapter High Profile

Dual-Port 10Gbps Server Adapter

The Intel X520-SR2 is a high-profile PCI Express network adapter built for servers and workstations that require fast Ethernet connectivity. It provides two LC fibre ports operating at 10Gbps each, using 10GBase-SR transceivers for short-range multimode links. The card targets enterprise data centres and high-performance computing clusters needing reliable throughput for virtualisation and large data set movement.

Sustained Load Behaviour

The adapter is designed for continuous data-intensive workloads rather than brief burst traffic. Its dual-port architecture distributes bandwidth across two independent 10Gbps channels, helping maintain consistent throughput during prolonged transfers. Efficient power consumption and hardware offloads reduce host CPU overhead, supporting stable performance when handling demanding enterprise applications over extended periods.

PCI Express Interface Limits

The card installs into a standard high-profile PCI Express slot, using the bus for high bandwidth and low latency communication. Practical throughput is governed by the PCIe link width and generation available on the host motherboard, which determines the ceiling for the dual 10Gbps ports. The LC connectors require compatible multimode fibre patch cables to complete the physical link.