ASRock Rack M540 PCIe x8 mezzanine card server accessory

PCIe x8 Mezzanine Card for Compatible ASRock Rack

The ASRock Rack M540 is a PCIe x8 mezzanine card designed to add dual 10G Base-T networking to specific ASRock Rack motherboards and barebones. It uses a single Intel X540 controller to provide two RJ45 ports supporting 10G, 1G and 100M speeds. The card measures 109 by 67 mm and targets administrators upgrading compatible server platforms with high-speed copper connectivity.

Sustained Throughput via Intel X540 Controller

The onboard Intel X540 controller manages both 10G Base-T ports, delivering consistent throughput under continuous load rather than only in short bursts. Hardware offload features reduce CPU overhead during prolonged traffic, while the x8 electrical interface provides sufficient bandwidth for dual-port line-rate operation. Thermal output matches the controller's typical envelope for passively cooled server chassis airflow.

Direct Mezzanine Installation on Listed Boards

Installation inserts the card into the dedicated mezzanine slot on supported motherboards such as the E3C224D4HM series, EP2C602D16FM or 3U8G models; no cables or extra brackets are required. The fixed 109 by 67 mm footprint aligns with the slot keying, so misalignment is unlikely if the board is on the compatible list. Builders using unlisted platforms will find the card physically or electrically incompatible.