Users need a little push when it comes to 10 Gigabit Ethernet - at least, that’s the implication of the latest program from 10 Gigabit Ethernet adapter maker Neterion.

Last week, Neterion started up an evaluation program that allows network managers the chance to test out its adapters for less money. The company says that for less than half of its Xframe’s list price users can get two adapters, fiber cables and dedicated support to try out the technology in their own networks.

“Based on feedback from end users and our OEM customers that include SGI, Cray and HP, there is growing demand for the performance and low latency offered by 10 Gigabit Ethernet, but IT managers want a cost effective means to determine where the technology will provide the most benefit to their company,” said Dave Zabrowski, president and CEO of Neterion, in a statement.

Neterion is trying to get the word out on its new program through a marketing blitz, and is even offering a chance to win “various prizes, including a speed racing training at a prestigious driving school, all travel and hotel expenses paid,” for those who register.

This is a rather extraordinary measure in the market for network interface cards. It makes me wonder, do users really need a chance at a day at the Skip Barber Racing School to try out 10 Gigabit Ethernet?

This year has seen Neterion try to jazz up its offerings in a couple different ways. One was through product development - with support for PCI-X 2.0 and PCI Express. Another was through a name change, as the company last year was known as S2io (which was considered too techie of a name).

If the latest program catches your interest, you can learn more at: http://www.neterion.com/eval

Jeff Caruso is site editor at Network World.