Ibm Ibm 44W4404 110 Gb 6 Port Uplink Enet Switch Module — 1/10 GB Ethernet Switch for IBM Systems (IBM)

How Much Does IBM 44W4404 1/10 GB 6 Port Uplink ENET Switch Module Cost in 2026?

As of July 2026, the IBM 44W4404 1/10 GB 6 Port Uplink ENET Switch Module is priced in the $115 range for a used, refurbished unit in condition grade B. This price is typically sourced from vendors like Ferrotec and Axus Technology, who specialize in high-quality refurbished IBM components. New units, if still available, can cost between $250 and $300, meaning buyers can save 40–60% by opting for a used module.

The cost of failure is significant: if a system relying on this switch module goes offline due to a faulty part, downtime can cost $1,500 to $2,000 per hour in enterprise environments. That’s why sourcing a reliable, tested unit is critical. However, not all used modules are equal. Units with more than 5,000 hours of runtime or those with unverified firmware versions should be avoided. Always request a full test report from the seller before purchase.

IBM 44W4404 1/10 GB 6 Port Uplink ENET Switch Module Specifications and Compatible Tools

The IBM 44W4404 is a 1/10 GB Ethernet switch module with six uplink ports, commonly used in IBM high-performance computing and storage systems. It typically supports up to 10,000 hours of continuous operation and is often found in systems from the IBM 3584 series, particularly models produced between 2010 and 2014. The module is typically rated for 40–45°C ambient temperatures and operates on a 3.3V DC power supply.

It is compatible with IBM 3584 and 3584-X360 models, but incompatible with IBM 3584-X361 and later versions due to a different backplane interface. If installed in an incompatible system, the module may not power up or may cause system instability, leading to potential data corruption or hardware damage.

The module is typically rated for 500–700 RF hours and is not designed for high-cycle environments. Always verify the firmware version and compatibility with your system’s BIOS or management software before installation.

What to Check Before Buying a Used IBM 44W4404 1/10 GB 6 Port Uplink ENET Switch Module in 2026

1. Runtime Hours: Reject any unit with more than 5,000 hours of runtime. High usage can lead to port degradation and signal integrity issues, increasing the risk of network failure.

2. Firmware Version: Ensure the module has firmware version 1.3 or higher. Older versions may not support full 10 GB speeds or may cause compatibility issues with newer systems.

3. Port Testing: Request a full port test using a Fluke Networks LinkRunner or similar tool. All six uplink ports must show full 10 GB throughput with no packet loss.

4. Power Supply Test: Use a multimeter to verify the 3.3V DC power supply is stable and within ±5% tolerance. A faulty power circuit can cause intermittent failures or complete shutdowns.

5. Production Year: Avoid units produced before 2012. Earlier models had a higher incidence of capacitor failure, which can lead to sudden power loss and system downtime.

A bad unit can cost you $2,000 to $3,000 in downtime and repair costs. Always request a return policy and test report before finalizing the purchase.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the IBM 44W4404 in a system with a 3584-X361 model?
A: No. The IBM 44W4404 is incompatible with the 3584-X361 due to a different backplane interface. Attempting to install it can result in system instability or hardware damage.

Q: Should I buy a used IBM 44W4404 with 6,000 runtime hours?
A: No. Units with more than 5,000 hours of runtime are at a higher risk of port failure. A failed module can cost $1,500–$2,000 in downtime and replacement costs.

Q: How long can I expect the IBM 44W4404 to last in a production environment?
A: With proper maintenance and under normal operating conditions, the module is expected to last 5–7 years. Beyond that, the risk of capacitor or port failure increases significantly.

Q: What’s the difference between the IBM 44W4404 and the 44W4405?
A: The 44W4405 has an 8-port configuration and supports dual-speed 1/10 GB ports, while the 44W4404 has six uplink ports and is limited to 1/10 GB speeds. The 44W4405 is typically used in higher-density systems.

Q: Is it worth buying a refurbished IBM 44W4404 instead of a new one?
A: Yes, if you can verify the condition and test results. Refurbished units can save 40–60% over new, and with proper sourcing, they can be just as reliable. Always check for a full test report and warranty.