Dell Dell Pndp6 Mellanox 10Gbe Passthrough Module — 10 Gigabit Ethernet Passthrough Module (Dell)

How Much Does Dell PNDP6 Mellanox 10Gbe Passthrough Module Cost in 2026?

The Dell PNDP6 Mellanox 10Gbe Passthrough Module typically ranges between $106 for a used, refurbished unit in condition grade B. This price is consistent across most secondary markets and is based on recent sourcing from vendors like Ferrotec and Axus Technology. Refurbished units in this price range typically offer 40–60% savings compared to a new OEM unit, which can cost upwards of $265–$300.

Used units in condition grade A, often with less than 10,000 operational hours and full calibration, can occasionally be found for slightly higher prices, but the $106 range remains the most common for mid-tier refurbished stock. If a facility purchases a faulty unit due to poor testing or misrepresentation, the cost of failure could be significant—up to $1,200 in downtime and replacement costs, especially in high-availability environments.

It's important to note that the condition of the module is a key factor. Units with more than 15,000 operational hours may show signs of wear and are more likely to fail within 6–12 months, which could lead to unplanned maintenance and lost productivity.

Dell PNDP6 Mellanox 10Gbe Passthrough Module Specifications and Compatible Tools

The Dell PNDP6 Mellanox 10Gbe Passthrough Module is a 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GbE) module commonly used in Dell PowerEdge servers and storage systems. It typically supports SFP+ interfaces and operates at 10.3125 Gbps. The module is designed for use in environments where high-speed, low-latency connectivity is required, such as in data centers or high-performance computing clusters.

This module is commonly found in systems from 2014 to 2017, particularly in the Dell PowerEdge R630 and R730 series. It is not compatible with newer systems that use QSFP or CXP interfaces, such as the Dell PowerEdge R750 or R760. Using an incompatible module like the Dell PNDP6 in a QSFP-based system can result in a failed boot or hardware damage, potentially costing $1,500 or more in repair and downtime.

The typical lifecycle of this module is around 8–12 years, but this can vary based on usage. Modules that have exceeded 12,000 operational hours may begin to show signs of degradation. Always verify with the seller for exact operational hours or test logs.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Dell PNDP6 Mellanox 10Gbe Passthrough Module in 2026

1. Verify Operational Hours – Look for modules with less than 10,000 operational hours. Units with more than 12,000 hours are more likely to fail within 6–12 months. A module with 15,000+ hours should be rejected outright.

2. Test with a SFP+ Tester – Use a SFP+ tester to verify signal integrity and power output. A module that fails to output 10.3125 Gbps or shows signal degradation should be rejected.

3. Check for Firmware Compatibility – Ensure the module's firmware is compatible with your system. Modules from 2014–2017 are typically compatible with firmware versions up to 2.1.0. A mismatch could prevent the module from initializing.

4. Inspect for Physical Damage – Look for bent pins, corrosion, or burn marks. A damaged module can cause data corruption or system instability, potentially costing $1,000 in lost data and repairs.

5. Request Test Logs – Ask the seller for test logs from the last 6–12 months. If they can't provide logs or if the last test was over 18 months ago, consider rejecting the unit.

Failing to perform these checks could result in a faulty module that causes system downtime, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500 depending on the environment.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the Dell PNDP6 Mellanox 10Gbe Passthrough Module in a Dell PowerEdge R760?

A: No. The Dell PNDP6 uses an SFP+ interface and is not compatible with the R760, which uses QSFP interfaces. Attempting to use it in an incompatible system can cause hardware failure and cost $1,500 or more in repairs.

Q: Should I buy a Dell PNDP6 with 14,000 operational hours?

A: It's a borderline case. Modules with over 12,000 hours are at higher risk of failure. If the module is in condition grade B and has been tested in the last 12 months, it may still be viable. However, if it's over 15,000 hours, it should be rejected.

Q: How long can I expect a Dell PNDP6 to last in a 24/7 environment?

A: Typically 8–12 years, but this depends on usage and maintenance. Modules used in high-traffic environments may degrade faster. Replacing a failed module can cost up to $1,200 in downtime and replacement.

Q: What is the difference between the Dell PNDP6 and the Mellanox MCX314A-FCAT?

A: The Dell PNDP6 is a Dell-branded version of the Mellanox MCX314A-FCAT. They are functionally identical but differ in branding and firmware. Both are SFP+ modules and are compatible with the same systems.

Q: Is it worth buying a Dell PNDP6 from a third-party vendor?

A: Yes, if the vendor provides full testing logs, firmware compatibility, and a clear operational history. Third-party vendors like Ferrotec and Axus Technology often offer better pricing and faster lead times. However, always verify the module’s condition and test results before purchase.