PowerEdge: PCIe 3.0 Devices May Not Function in Dell R7525 Servers

Summary: Installing third-party PCIe 3.0 devices into Dell PowerEdge R7525 systems may result in compatibility issues with the system's PCIe 4.0 Data Link Feature. This can lead to PCIe 3.0 device non-recognition or performance instability. ...

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Symptoms

Users may experience one or more of the following issues when using third-party PCIe 3.0 devices in Dell R7525 servers:

  • The system does not recognize the PCIe 3.0 device, or the device does not function as expected.
  • Performance degradation or instability in the operation of the PCIe 3.0 device.
  • Increased error rates or operational issues with the PCIe 3.0 device.

Cause

The Data Link Feature is enabled by default and is not user configurable on Dell AMD-based R7525 systems. This feature leverages PCIe 4.0 specifications. Third-party PCIe 3.0 devices may not recognize or properly handle the advanced Data Link Layer packets used by PCIe 4.0, leading to compatibility issues. This is due to the difference in specifications between PCIe 3.0 and 4.0. PCIe 4.0 includes features such as improved error correction and power management optimizations that PCIe 3.0 does not support.

Resolution

Use PCIe 4.0 compliant cards when available. When using PCIe 3.0 devices, ensure that the firmware and drivers are the most current.

Affected Products

AX-7525, OEMR R7525, PowerEdge R7525, PowerFlex appliance R7525, Dell EMC XC Core XC7525
Article Properties
Article Number: 000221981
Article Type: Solution
Last Modified: 06 May 2025
Version:  2
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