NVIDIA ConnectX-8 SuperNIC User Manual

Troubleshooting

When working with the ConnectX-8 SuperNIC, you may encounter various issues related to connectivity, performance, or configuration. This section outlines common problems, their possible causes, and steps to resolve them.

NIC Not Detected by the System

  • Ensure that the SuperNIC is placed correctly

  • Make sure the SuperNIC slot and the SuperNIC are compatible

    Install the SuperNIC in a different PCI Express slot

  • Use the drivers that came with the SuperNIC or download the latest

  • Make sure your motherboard has the latest BIOS

  • Try to reboot the server

The SuperNIC no longer works

  • Reseat the SuperNIC in its slot or a different slot, if necessary

  • Try using another cable

  • Reinstall the drivers for the network driver files may be damaged or deleted

  • Reboot the server

SuperNICs stopped working after installing another SuperNIC

  • Try removing and re-installing all SuperNICs

  • Check that cables are connected properly

  • Make sure your motherboard has the latest BIOS

Link indicator light is off

  • Try another port on the switch

  • Make sure the cable is securely attached

  • Check you are using the proper cables that do not exceed the recommended lengths

  • Verify that your switch and SuperNIC port are compatible

Link light is on, but with no communication established

  • Check that the latest driver is loaded

  • Check that both the SuperNIC and its link are set to the same speed and duplex settings

Environment Information

cat /etc/issue

uname -a

cat /proc/cupinfo | grep ‘model name’ | uniq

ofed_info -s

ifconfig -a

ip link show

ethtool <interface>

ethtool -i <interface_of_Mellanox_port_num>

ibdev2netdev

SuperNIC Detection

lspci | grep -i Mellanox

Mellanox Firmware Tool (MFT)

Download and install MFT: MFT Documentation

Refer to the User Manual for installation instructions.

Once installed, run:

mst start

mst status

flint -d <mst_device> q

Ports Information

ibstat

ibv_devinfo

Firmware Version Upgrade

To download the latest firmware version, refer to the NVIDIA Update and Query Utility.

Collect Log File

cat /var/log/messages

dmesg >> system.log

journalctl (Applicable on new operating systems)

cat /var/log/syslog

Environment Information

From the Windows desktop choose the Start menu and run: msinfo32

To export system information to a text file, choose the Export option from the File menu.

Assign a file name and save.

Mellanox Firmware Tool (MFT)

Download and install MFT: MFT Documentation

Refer to the User Manual for installation instructions.

Once installed, open a CMD window and run:

WinMFT

mst start

mst status

flint –d <mst_device> q

Ports Information

vstat

Firmware Version Upgrade

Download the latest firmware version using the PSID/board ID from here.

flint –d <mst_device> –i <firmware_bin_file> b

Collect Log File

  • Event log viewer

  • MST device logs:

    • mst start

    • mst status

  • flint –d <mst_device> dc > dump_configuration.log

  • mstdump <mst_device> dc > mstdump.log

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