Broadcom has introduced a new range of 400GbE adapters under its Thor line, targeting the AI era. These adapters are crucial for high-speed connections in AI servers and clusters. The 400GbE speed aligns with the capabilities of PCIe Gen5 x16 buses, accommodating GPU and AI accelerator interfaces. Key features like offloading and RDMA support are essential at this speed, as CPUs cannot handle multiple 400GbE NICs without offloading.
The new generation of 400GbE adapters from Broadcom promises lower power consumption and extended reach using copper DACs. While Intel has yet to release its 400GbE IP NIC, NVIDIA remains Broadcom’s main competitor in this space. Broadcom’s SerDes technology allows for a reach of 112G by connecting their 400GbE NICs to switches like Tomahawk 5.
By using thinner DAC cables, Broadcom’s 400GbE adapters offer cost and energy savings compared to cabling or active optics. The ability to use passive DACs up to 4M allows for longer throws without sacrificing performance. These power savings are especially crucial in modern AI servers with multiple 400GbE interfaces.
Broadcom’s diverse ecosystem of optical modules and DAC manufacturers sets it apart from competitors like NVIDIA. This broader compatibility ensures that AI clusters are not delayed due to specific cable requirements. The availability of alternative sources for 400GbE NICs will drive wider adoption in server environments.
Overall, Broadcom’s new 400GbE adapters offer significant advancements in speed, power efficiency, and connectivity options. With the increasing demand for high-speed networking in AI applications, these adapters are poised to play a critical role in accelerating data processing and connectivity in modern server infrastructures. Stay tuned for reviews of the new adapters in the coming weeks to learn more about their performance and capabilities.
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