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StarTech.com ST10000SPEXI 10G Ethernet Network Card - PCIe 2.0 x 4 - Intel X550-AT Chip - RJ45 Port - NBASE-T
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This 10G Ethernet card leverages PCI Express 2.0 x4 host interface bandwidth to deliver up to 20Gbps full-duplex throughput, ensuring minimal bottleneck for data-intensive applications. The Intel X550-AT chipset provides hardware-accelerated virtualization support, making it ideal for virtualized server environments where network performance isolation is critical.
The adapter supports comprehensive IEEE standards compliance including 802.3an (10GBASE-T), 802.3ab (1GBASE-T), and 802.3u (100BASE-T), ensuring interoperability with existing network infrastructure. Advanced networking features include support for jumbo frames up to 9K, PXE network boot capability, and Auto MDIX for simplified cable connections.
Relevant factors for this section include Chipset Manufacturer, Chipset Model, Host Interface, Total Number of Ports. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
This network adapter provides cost-effective 10G connectivity without requiring specialized fiber infrastructure, utilizing existing Cat6a or better twisted-pair cabling. The Intel chipset delivers enterprise-level performance and reliability with hardware virtualization support that enhances virtual machine network performance in server deployments.
Multi-Speed Flexibility
Supports 10G/5G/2.5G/1G/100Mbps speeds over RJ-45, allowing gradual network upgrades and compatibility with mixed-speed environments.
- NBASE-T specification compliant
- Backward compatible with existing switches
- Auto-negotiation for optimal speed selection
Enterprise Features
Includes advanced networking capabilities essential for professional IT environments and data center deployments.
- 9K jumbo frame support reduces CPU overhead
- PXE boot enables diskless workstation deployment
- Intel VT-c enhances virtualized network performance
Deployment / Use Cases
This 10G Ethernet card is specifically designed for server environments requiring high-bandwidth network connectivity, including file servers, database servers, virtualization hosts, and high-performance computing workstations. The plug-in card form factor makes it suitable for both rack-mounted servers and tower workstations where 10G network upgrades are needed.
Common deployment scenarios include connecting servers to 10G switches for storage area networks, accelerating backup and replication processes, reducing network bottlenecks in virtualized environments, and providing high-speed connectivity for video editing workstations or scientific computing applications. The low-profile bracket included in the package enables installation in space-constrained chassis commonly found in rack-mounted server configurations.
Physical Profile
The black plug-in card measures 4.80" (121.92 mm) in height and 2.70" (68.58 mm) in width, with a weight of approximately 3.40 oz (96.39 g). This compact form factor ensures compatibility with standard PCIe slots while maintaining sufficient surface area for effective heat dissipation during continuous operation. The professional black finish matches typical server and workstation component aesthetics.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 4.80" (121.92 mm), 2.70" (68.58 mm), 3.40 oz (96.39 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 2.70" (68.58 mm)
- Height
- 4.80" (121.92 mm)
- Weight
- 3.40 oz (96.39 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate installation and operation.
Highlights
- Adds 10G/5G/2.5G/1G/100Mbps RJ-45 Ethernet port for high-bandwidth connectivity
- Intel X550-AT chipset with Intel Virtualization Technology for connectivity (Intel VT-c)
- PCI Express 2.0 x4 host interface for maximum throughput
- Compliant with 10GBase-T and NBASE-T specifications
- Supports up to 20Gbps full-duplex bandwidth
- 9K jumbo frame support reduces CPU overhead
- PXE network boot capability for diskless deployments
- Auto MDIX for simplified cable connections
- Includes low-profile bracket for space-constrained installations
- EU RoHS compliant with environmental certifications
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | ST10000SPEXI |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | 1-Port 10G Ethernet Network Card - PCI Express - Intel X550-AT Chip |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | 10Gigabit Ethernet Card |
| Technical Information | |
| Chipset Manufacturer | Intel |
| Chipset Model | X550AT |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Host Interface | PCI Express 2.0 x4 |
| Total Number of Ports | 1 |
| Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports | 1 |
| Media & Performance | |
| Media Type Supported | Twisted Pair |
| Maximum Data Transfer Rate | 10 Gbit/s |
| Network & Communication | |
| Network Technology | 10GBase-T |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Black |
| Product Color | Black |
| Form Factor | Plug-in Card |
| Height | 4.80" (121.92 mm) |
| Width | 2.70" (68.58 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 3.40 oz (96.39 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | 1-Port 10G Ethernet Network Card - PCI Express - Intel X550-AT Chip 1 x Low-profile Bracket 1 x Quick-Start Guide |
| Device Supported | Server |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Certification | EU RoHS |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) 2,Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Country of Origin | China |
User Manual
FAQ
What speeds does this network card support?
The StarTech.com ST10000SPEXI supports multiple network speeds including 10Gbps, 5Gbps, 2.5Gbps, 1Gbps, and 100Mbps over its RJ-45 port. This multi-speed capability allows flexible deployment in mixed-speed network environments and gradual upgrades from existing Gigabit infrastructure to 10G connectivity without replacing all network equipment simultaneously.
What type of cabling is required for 10G operation?
For 10Gbps operation, this network card requires Category 6a or better twisted-pair Ethernet cabling. The card supports standard 10GBase-T specifications over copper wiring, eliminating the need for specialized fiber optic infrastructure. For lower speeds (5Gbps, 2.5Gbps, 1Gbps, 100Mbps), Category 5e or Category 6 cables may be sufficient depending on distance and environmental factors.
Does this card include virtualization support?
Yes, the Intel X550-AT chipset includes Intel Virtualization Technology for connectivity (Intel VT-c), which provides hardware acceleration for virtualized network functions. This feature enhances network performance in virtual machine environments by reducing CPU overhead and improving network isolation between virtual machines, making it particularly suitable for server virtualization deployments.
What PCI Express slot is required for installation?
This network card requires a PCI Express 2.0 x4 slot or any higher-bandwidth PCIe slot (such as PCIe 3.0 or 4.0) for installation. The card is physically compatible with standard PCIe x4, x8, and x16 slots. The included low-profile bracket allows installation in space-constrained chassis commonly found in rack-mounted servers and compact workstations.
What advanced networking features does this card support?
Beyond basic connectivity, this network adapter supports several advanced features including jumbo frames up to 9K for reduced CPU overhead in high-throughput applications, PXE network boot capability for diskless workstation deployments, and Auto MDIX for automatic cable orientation detection. These features make it suitable for enterprise environments requiring robust network functionality.
Is this network card suitable for server environments?
Yes, this network card is specifically designed and certified for server environments. It supports server-grade features including hardware virtualization acceleration, high-throughput capabilities for data-intensive applications, and reliable operation in 24/7 data center conditions. The Device Supported specification explicitly lists 'Server' as the intended deployment environment for this product.