Supermicro MicroLP 2-Port GbE Card Based on Intel i350

Engineered for dense, performance-driven server environments, the Supermicro MicroLP 2-Port GbE Card Based on Intel i350 (AOC-CGP-i2) is a compact dual-port Gigabit Ethernet adapter designed to maximize networking capability in Twin Family and MicroCloud systems. This low-profile MicroLP NIC taps into the reliability and efficiency of the Intel Ethernet Controller i350, delivering two independent 1 GbE ports with robust offloads and broad compatibility. Ideal for edge deployments, virtualization workloads, storage networks, and hyper-converged infrastructures, this card provides scalable, cost-effective connectivity without compromising space or airflow in compact chassis. The AOC-CGP-i2 is built to fit the tight confines of modern data centers while offering the performance, features, and ease of integration that IT teams rely on for consistent, predictable network throughput. With its microLP design, two auto-negotiating RJ-45 ports, and Intel-driven performance enhancements, administrators gain a dependable networking backbone that simplifies cabling, improves CPU efficiency, and supports a wide range of operating systems and virtualization scenarios. This card integrates seamlessly with Supermicro’s Twin Family and MicroCloud platforms, making it a natural choice for deployments where space, power, and reliability must align. Whether expanding a small server or provisioning a dense 1U or 2U cluster, the MicroLP i350-based NIC provides resilient dual-port connectivity and the control needed to meet today’s data center demands. In short, it’s a compact, feature-rich solution that brings enterprise-grade networking to compact systems, enabling faster data transfer, easier management, and scalable growth in your network topology.

• Compact microLP design for ultra-dense servers: The MicroLP form factor is purpose-built to fit into the tightest chassis and high-density deployments. This two-port NIC slides into PCIe slots without crowding adjacent components, while the included low-profile bracket ensures clean installation in compact servers. Its space-saving footprint makes it an excellent upgrade for Twin Family and MicroCloud environments where every millimeter counts, enabling you to add robust Gigabit connectivity without sacrificing airflow or rack space. The card’s slim profile also reduces thermal concerns in crowded data centers, helping to maintain steady performance even under sustained workloads.
• Intel i350-based dual Gigabit Ethernet for reliable throughput: At the heart of the card lies the Intel Ethernet Controller i350, a proven workhorse for enterprise networking. Each port negotiates to 1 Gbps with auto-negotiation, delivering stable, full-duplex performance across typical LAN deployments. The i350 architecture includes efficient offloads and hardware assistance that reduce CPU overhead, enabling hosts to focus on applications rather than raw packet processing. This translates to improved application response times, smoother virtual machine networking, and more headroom for storage and compute tasks in virtualization-heavy environments.
• Broad compatibility and simple integration with Supermicro platforms: Designed to work within Supermicro’s Twin Family and MicroCloud systems, this NIC integrates quickly with existing hardware and firmware. The AOC-CGP-i2 supports standard Intel drivers, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of operating systems and virtualization platforms. Whether you’re deploying Windows Server, Linux distributions, or virtualization stacks, you can expect reliable driver support, straightforward installation, and familiar network management workflows. The two-port configuration simplifies network topology planning, allowing for straightforward VLAN segmentation, link aggregation, and redundancy strategies across multiple servers in your cluster.
• Advanced networking features for modern data centers: The Intel i350-based NIC provides essential offloads and features that boost performance and efficiency. Expect support for VLAN tagging, Large Send Offload (LSO), Large Receive Offload (LRO), and checksum offloads that reduce CPU load during high-throughput traffic. With the potential for RSS (Receive Side Scaling) balancing across multiple cores, multi-queue support helps ensure consistent performance under virtualization and multi-threaded workloads. Jumbo frame support further enhances performance for storage and backup traffic that benefits from larger payloads, while robust flow control helps maintain link reliability under congested conditions.
• Cost-effective, scalable network upgrade for dense deployments: The dual-port Gigabit Ethernet solution delivers meaningful bandwidth expansion without requiring a major overhaul of your network infrastructure. It pairs well with existing 1 Gbps networks or as a stepping stone toward higher bandwidth configurations in mixed environments. For administrators looking to scale gradually, the MicroLP i350 card provides a straightforward path to improved network throughput, easier management, and better resource utilization in small to mid-size clusters.

Technical Details of Supermicro MicroLP 2-Port GbE Card Based on Intel i350

• Model: AOC-CGP-i2
• Controller: Intel Ethernet Controller i350 (dual-port)
• Ports: 2 x RJ-45 Ethernet ports, 10/100/1000 Mbps auto-negotiation
• Interface: PCI Express, typically PCIe Gen 2 x1 (single-lane) interface
• Form Factor: MicroLP (low-profile) PCIe card for dense chassis and compact systems
• Brackets: Includes low-profile mounting bracket for compact installations
• Features: VLAN support, jumbo frames, basic offloads, flow control, and standard Intel driver compatibility
• Compatibility: Designed for Supermicro Twin Family and MicroCloud platforms; supports common Windows and Linux driver ecosystems via Intel-provided software

how to install Supermicro MicroLP 2-Port GbE Card Based on Intel i350

• Power down the server and unplug all power sources. If you are working in a data center, follow your facility’s electrical safety procedures.
• Open the server chassis and locate an available PCIe slot compatible with a low-profile card. The MicroLP card uses a standard PCIe interface and can be installed in x1, x4, x8, or x16 slots depending on the motherboard architecture.
• Remove the slot cover from the chassis panel, then align the card with the PCIe slot. Gently insert the card until it is fully seated and make sure the rear bracket aligns with the chassis opening.
• Secure the card using the screw at the bracket to hold it firmly in place. Attach any required RJ-45 cables to the two ports, ensuring a firm connection to your network switch or patch panel.
• Power on the server. In most cases, the operating system will recognize the NIC automatically and install the appropriate Intel drivers. If prompted, install the Intel driver package from the official Intel website or your OS vendor repository for optimal performance and features. Verify that both ports are detected and configured as desired, and configure VLANs, link aggregation, or NIC teaming as needed in your OS networking settings.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What speeds do the ports support? A: The card provides two 1 Gbps Ethernet ports (auto-negotiating to 10/100/1000 Mbps as needed).
• Q: Is this card suitable for Supermicro Twin Family and MicroCloud systems? A: Yes. The MicroLP 2-Port GbE Card is designed to work seamlessly within Supermicro Twin Family and MicroCloud platforms, offering compact networking with reliable performance.
• Q: Does it support jumbo frames? A: Yes. The Intel i350-based design supports jumbo frames, which can improve throughput for storage and backup traffic and reduce CPU overhead in certain workloads.
• Q: Do I need special cables or adapters? A: Standard RJ-45 Ethernet cables (Cat5e/Cat6) are suitable for these ports. Ensure the cables and switches are rated for Gigabit Ethernet to avoid bottlenecks.
• Q: What drivers are required? A: Intel-provided drivers for Windows and Linux are recommended. In most environments, OS-provided drivers or the Intel driver package will deliver best performance and compatibility.