The NVIDIA ConnectX‑8 family delivers a next‑generation high‑performance networking solution for cloud and data‑center environments, building upon ConnectX‑7 with further improvements in bandwidth, interface data rates, and manageability. Based on official technical documentation, this article systematically outlines the supported interfaces and compatible optical modules for ConnectX‑8 SuperNICs.
Product Models and Interface Form Factors
ConnectX‑8 SuperNICs are available in multiple variants:
Detailed Description of Core Interfaces
Host Interface (PCIe)
Supports PCIe Gen 6 (backward compatible with Gen 5/Gen 4) through an x16 edge connector, with support for Multi‑Host (up to 4 hosts). The 900‑9X81E‑00EX‑DT0 model additionally supports PCIe Downstream Port Containment (DPC).
Networking Interfaces and Interconnect Solutions
Supports Ethernet (IEEE 802.3) and InfiniBand (Specification 1.7). Network traffic is transmitted through QSFP112 or OSFP connectors, and can be used with DAC, AOC, and optical modules.
MCIO Connector
Features a 124‑pin MCIO connector (SFF‑TA‑1016) for connecting an additional PCIe x16 interface or DSP devices such as NVMe SSDs.
Sideband Management Interface
Provides out‑of‑band management through a 30‑pin IPEX connector with BMC integration. The maximum on‑board trace length is 140 mm for C8240/C8220 SuperNICs and 75 mm for C8180 SuperNICs.
PPS and Debugging Interface (Optional)
An optional Cable Extender debugging kit (OPN: 930‑9XCB‑L‑000A‑000) is available, providing access to MTUSB, PPS, NCSI, and other debugging interfaces.
Networking Ports LED Indicators Description
For the description of the networking ports LEDs, follow the table below, depending on the ConnectX-8 SuperNIC you have purchased.
Scheme 1: Single Bi‑Color LED (Yellow/Green)
Scheme 2: Two LEDs (Bi‑Color + Single Green)
Optical Modules for ConnectX‑8 SuperNICs Provided by Tarluz
