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The Mellanox 6036G, formally the SX6036G, is a 1U InfiniBand-to-Ethernet gateway with 36 QSFP+ ports. It is related to—but should not be confused with—the SX6036, a separate FDR InfiniBand/VPI switch model. The SX6036G hardware manual lists port rates of 40 or 56 Gb/s and up to 64 configurable 10 Gb/s Ethernet ports using specific breakout combinations.

What is the Mellanox SX6036G?

The SX6036G is a rack-mounted gateway in Mellanox’s SwitchX family. Its documented role is to connect InfiniBand and Ethernet networks; it is not simply another name for the SX6036. Mellanox’s product brief describes the SX6036 as a related 36-port FDR InfiniBand/VPI switch, while a forum response identifies the SX6036G as the gateway model. Capabilities can differ by model and software or license configuration, so verify the exact model before planning a deployment. Mellanox SX6036 product brief · NVIDIA Developer Forum discussion

How many ports and what speeds does it support?

The SX6036G hardware manual lists 36 QSFP+ connector cages, with documented SerDes speeds of 10, 20, 40, and 56 Gb/s. The manual describes 40 or 56 Gb/s per port. These are hardware-documentation specifications, not a promise that every cable, transceiver, peer device, or software configuration will work at every rate. Check both endpoints and the intended protocol before selecting connectivity. Mellanox SX60XX hardware manual

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Can you split the QSFP+ ports?

Yes. The hardware manual documents port-splitting configurations and states a maximum of 64 configurable 10 Gb/s Ethernet ports. That maximum does not mean all 36 cages can be split independently: the manual’s combinations disable other ports in some modes. Consult its port-splitting table for the exact port selection and resulting availability before designing the connection layout. Mellanox SX60XX hardware manual

Size, power, and airflow

The SX6036G is a 1U unit for a 19-inch rack. The hardware manual lists dimensions of about 43.6 × 428 × 628.9 mm and weight of 8.02 kg with one power supply or 8.76 kg with two. Its input is listed as 100–240 VAC, 50–60 Hz, and its operating temperature range as 0–45°C. The manual gives 4.03 Tb/s non-blocking switching capacity; that is the manufacturer’s documented hardware figure, not an independently measured or modern comparative benchmark. Mellanox SX60XX hardware manual

Power figures depend on the cable scenario

The manual’s power table distinguishes active from passive cable configurations. It lists typical consumption of 182 W with active cables and 100 W with passive cables; listed maximums are 224 W and 119 W, respectively. These are documentation figures for the stated configurations, not guaranteed readings for a particular installation.

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Match airflow to the chassis

The hardware manual names variants MSX6036G-2SFS and MSX6036G-2SRS, with listed airflow directions of PSU-side-to-connector-side (P2C) and connector-side-to-PSU-side (C2P), respectively. Check the chassis label and airflow direction before buying replacement parts or deciding where to place the unit in a rack; the cooling plan must match the actual configuration.

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Which cables or modules should you use?

The manual lists QSFP+ connectors and the option to use QSFP-to-SFP+ adapter modules. That establishes an available adapter category, not universal compatibility with every SFP+ device or module. For any cable, DAC, AOC, or transceiver, confirm the precise part, supported protocol and speed, software release, and remote endpoint. The documentation does not validate arbitrary modern products or a specific retail SKU. Mellanox SX60XX hardware manual

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What is known about software and support?

Lenovo’s support entry lists MLNX-OS for the SX6036G and related systems, including a release dated 6 October 2017. This is historical evidence; it does not establish that downloads are currently available to every owner, that security fixes remain current, or that a particular serial number is supported. Lenovo Data Center Support: SX6036G downloads

A 2017 NVIDIA Developer Forum response describes the SX6036G as end of life. Because that is a forum statement rather than an official lifecycle bulletin, it should not be treated as definitive current lifecycle status. For a purchase or production deployment, seek an official lifecycle record or written support confirmation for the exact unit. NVIDIA Developer Forum discussion

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What to verify before buying or installing one

  • Read the chassis label and confirm that it says SX6036G, not SX6036.
  • Check the exact variant and airflow direction, plus the number and condition of included power supplies.
  • Map required port speeds, protocols, and breakout combinations against the manual’s port-splitting table.
  • Verify each cable or module against both the SX6036G configuration and the connected device.
  • Confirm software access and lifecycle or support status for the specific unit with the relevant vendor.
  • For a used unit, establish its tested condition and which parts are included rather than assuming accessories or replacement parts are interchangeable.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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