PowerEdge System Components

Broadcom NICs

The only non-Intel networking solution commonly installed in PowerEdge servers is from Broadcom. The Broadcom Gigabit Ethernet Adapter is available as a PCI card or integrated to the motherboard of some PowerEdge servers such as the PowerEdge 2550 and 4600. It is very similar in features and performance to the Intel Pro 1000 T.

The PCI version of the adapter supports 64-bit and 32-bit operation at 33 or 66 MHz, as determined by the PCI bus to which the card is attached. The adapter will function at 10, 100, or 1000 Mbps using an RJ45 connector, but needs Category 5 cable to reach the higher speeds.

The software package that supports configuration and teaming of the Broadcom Gigabit Ethernet Adapter is called the Broadcom Advanced Server Program, or BASP. This utility will come on a CD that ships with the server, and it should be used for teaming multiple Broadcom adapters.