Intel introduced a 10-Gbps Ethernet (10GbE) adapter for servers that is priced at less than $5,000 and operates on standard multimode fiber, which represents 90% of the optical cabling in data center networks. The server adapter utilizes XPAK optical technology to reduce the price over previous adapters by 40%. Later this summer, Intel will introduce a version for single-mode fiber for applications involving distances up to 10 km, such as communications among regional data centers.
In addition, Intel is partnering with Cisco Systems to offer 10GbE interoperability with Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series Switches. The companies are also collaborating on educational seminars, and product sampling programs to assist IT managers in deploying 10-GbE networks. http://www.intel.com
