- Catherine
In Super Pod networking, if the last SU has less than 32 nodes, such as only 16 nodes, can the last SU's Leaf switch use only 4 switches? This will cause two network cards of the same node to access the same leaf switch, will there be any problem with the SHARP tree?

John Doe
Answered on 9:43 am
In Super Pod networking, if the last SU has less than 32 nodes, such as only 16 nodes, then the last SU’s Leaf switch can use only 4 switches. This can save the number of switches and costs, but it will sacrifice some network performance and reliability.
SHARP tree is a topology structure based on multi-layer switches, which can achieve efficient global aggregation and broadcast. The construction of SHARP tree requires the following conditions:
- Each node has two network cards, which are connected to different Leaf switches.
- Each Leaf switch has two uplink ports, which are connected to different Spine switches.
- Each Spine switch has two downlink ports, which are connected to different Leaf switches.
If the two network cards of the same node are connected to the same Leaf switch, then the SHARP tree cannot meet the above conditions, and the following problems will occur:
- Network redundancy is reduced. If the Leaf switch or its uplink port fails, the node will lose network connection.
- Network bandwidth is reduced. Because each node can only use the bandwidth of one network card, instead of the aggregated bandwidth of two network cards.
- Network latency is increased. Because the communication between each node may need to go through more hops.
Therefore, if you want to use SHARP tree as the topology structure of Super Pod networking, it is recommended that the two network cards of each node are connected to different Leaf switches, to ensure network performance and reliability.
People Also Ask
Related Articles

800G SR8 and 400G SR4 Optical Transceiver Modules Compatibility and Interconnection Test Report
Version Change Log Writer V0 Sample Test Cassie Test Purpose Test Objects:800G OSFP SR8/400G OSFP SR4/400G Q112 SR4. By conducting corresponding tests, the test parameters meet the relevant industry standards,

NVIDIA Launches Spectrum-XGS Ethernet Technology: From Scale-Up/Out to Cross-Domain Scaling!
In the lead-up to the 2025 Hot Chips conference, NVIDIA officially unveiled the Spectrum-XGS Ethernet technology. This innovative solution, based on network optimization algorithms, introduces “scale-across” capabilities, breaking through the

1.6 T Optical Module Production Line TX Parallel Testing: A Comprehensive Guide
In the fast-paced realm of high-speed optical communications, major optical module manufacturers are leveraging 4-channel optical sampling oscilloscopes to enhance TX testing efficiency for 400G, 800G, and 1.6 T modules. However,

Scale Out vs Scale Up: Insights into AI Network Architectures for 2028
As a leading specialist in optical-communication products and solutions, FiberMall is dedicated to providing cost-effective options for global data centers, cloud computing, enterprise networks, access networks, and wireless systems. With

Understanding Optical Transceiver Modules: A Comprehensive Guide to Technical Parameters
In the world of fiber optic communications, optical transceiver modules play a pivotal role as interfaces that convert electrical signals to optical signals and vice versa. If you’re dealing with data

Spine-Leaf vs. Traditional Three-Tier Architecture: Comprehensive Comparison and Analysis
Introduction Evolution of Data Center Networking Over the past few decades, data center networking has undergone a massive transformation from simple local area networks to complex distributed systems. In the

AMD: Pioneering the Future of AI Liquid Cooling Markets
In the rapidly evolving landscape of AI infrastructure, AMD is emerging as a game-changer, particularly in liquid cooling technologies. As data centers push the boundaries of performance and efficiency, AMD’s