Performance

We used a strong server and multiple Shuttle DS81 client PCs to measure the switch's performance. Our server's configuration is depicted in the table below.

As you can see, we use a strong system as our server is equipped with an incredibly fast PCIe SSD off of which all the tests are executed to make sure there is no bottleneck on our side, since OCZ's RevoDrive 350 480 GB can achieve up to 1800 MB/s read and 1700 MB/s write speeds (sequential). We also equipped the system with an Intel X540-T2 network adapter for up to 10GbE transfer speeds.

We chose to compare the ProSAFE XS728T to a Zyxel XS1920 10GbE smart managed switch with 12-ports.



Both switches delivered their advertised 10G speeds, but the Zyxel XS1920-12 was a bit faster.



The Zyxel switch managed to again outperform Netgear's offering. The performance difference wasn't very large, although larger than with transfer speeds.

Power Consumption

Let us now check on just how much power the XS728T needs in idle and during throughput with twelve connected clients.

We use a GW Instek GPM-8212 power analyzer for all of our power consumption measurements.



We couldn't stress the switch enough. As such, its power consumption never exceeded 87 W.

Noise

We use a CEM-8852 Sound DB Meter that is installed 50 cm away from the switch for these measurements. Ambient noise in our lab was below 30 dBA while these noise measurements were taken.



Both switches are quiet enough for a business environment. The XS728T's fans operated at full speed for a very short period right after we turned the switch on, which resulted in a lot of noise. The same applied to the Zyxel switch. However, its fans spun at full speed for a little longer – roughly a minute.