Lenovo Flex System PCle Expansion Node

Expand Compute Nodes for More Capability

The Flex System™ PCIe Expansion Node is an element of the PureFlex family, which combines compute, storage, networking, virtualization, and management into a single system that anticipates resource needs to help you optimize your infrastructure. The PCIe Expansion Node allows you to attach additional PCIe adapters, fabric mezzanine adapters, and next-generation graphics processing units (GPU) to a Flex System compute node, which expands the compute node’s capability.

Flex System PCle Expansion Node

Flexible architecture increases expandability. Expansion Nodes offer dedicated attachment for select standard PCIe adapters and dedicated storage capacity for network-attached storage workloads. This expansion node enables you to attach select standard PCIe adapters, fabric mezzanine adapters, and next-generation graphics processing units for a variety of network and application environments.

Accommodate Multiple Environments

• Specific networking environments that require direct PCIe adapter connectivity to Flex System compute nodes
• Application environments that are written to take advantage of acceleration and visualization performance-leveraging GPUs connected to Flex System compute nodes

Freedom to Innovate

Over time, IT systems have become more complex and difficult to manage. Without the right systems in place, you run the risk of spending too much time on operations and maintenance and not enough time on innovation. You need a flexible infrastructure that can meet today’s ever-changing business demands.

Why System x?

System x® is the leading provider of x86 systems for the data center. The portfolio includes rack, tower, blade, dense, and converged systems, and supports enterprise-class performance, reliability, and security. System x also offers a full range of networking, storage, software and solutions, and comprehensive services supporting business needs throughout the IT environment.

Tech Specs

Supported Bus Widths: 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x and 16x*

Adapter Capacity: Two full-length, full-height x16 Two half-length, half-height x8

Adapter Sizes: Standard-height adapters, 4.20-inch (106.7 mm) Low-profile adapters, 2.536-inch (64.4 mm) Half-length adapters, 6.6-inch (167.65 mm) Full-length adapters, 12.283-inch (312 mm)

Adapter Quantities: Up to two low-profile adapters; Up to two full-height adapters; Up to one full-height, doublewide adapters

PCIe Standards: Supports 1.1 and 2.0

Generation: Generation 1- and Generation 2-compliant adapters†

Power: Supports greater than 75 W PCIe adapters using standard PCIe auxiliary power connectors‡

Form Factor: Flex System™ standard node

Chassis: Support Flex System Enterprise Chassis

I/O Expansion: 2x Mezz adapters (x8+x4)

Warranty: 3-year customer replaceable unit and on-site service, next business day 9×5, service upgrades available

Management: iMM V2, RTMM KVM

* PCIe mechanical connectors limit larger lane add-in cards from being inserted into smaller mechanical connectors.

† Generation 3-compliant adapters will operate using Generation 2 compliance.

‡ Contact your representative for additional information on other high-wattage adapters that can be supported.