N9K-X9536PQ Cisco 40 GB Expansion Module | Refurbished

Description

Product Overview of Cisco N9K-X9536PQ Expansion Module

The Cisco N9K-X9536PQ Nexus X9536PQ is an expansion module designed for Cisco Nexus switches. Specifically, it offers 36 ports of 40 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, making it a robust solution for network expansion and high-performance data transfer.

Purpose of the Expansion Module

An expansion module like the N9K-X9536PQ serves the crucial role of expanding a network’s capacity and capabilities. It plugs into compatible switches, adding more ports and increasing the network’s ability to handle additional devices and higher data loads.

Understanding the Technical SpecificationsPort

• 36 Ports: This expansion module provides a total of 36 ports, each capable of supporting 40 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity.

Connectivity

• 40 Gigabit Ethernet: The module supports high-speed data transfer at 40 Gigabits per second on each port, enabling swift and efficient communication within the network.

Form Factor

• Quad Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus (QSFP+): The QSFP+ form factor is a compact and standardized design for high-speed network connections. It allows for a more efficient use of space and resources within the networking equipment.

Importance of 40 Gigabit Ethernet in NetworkingHigh-Speed Data Transfer

• 40 Gigabit Ethernet provides significantly higher data transfer speeds compared to lower-speed alternatives, making it suitable for data-intensive applications and large-scale network environments.

Scalability

• The higher bandwidth of 40 Gigabit Ethernet allows for improved scalability, accommodating the increasing demands of modern networks and applications.

Data Center Performance

• In data center environments, 40 Gigabit Ethernet supports the rapid and simultaneous transfer of large volumes of data, contributing to overall performance optimization.

Application in Network ExpansionIntegration with Cisco Nexus Switches

• The N9K-X9536PQ expansion module is specifically designed for integration with Cisco Nexus switches, enhancing their capabilities and allowing for seamless network expansion.

High-Density Connectivity

• With 36 ports of 40 Gigabit Ethernet, this expansion module provides high-density connectivity options, enabling the connection of multiple devices and ensuring efficient data flow.

Benefits of Cisco N9K-X9536PQ Nexus X9536PQIncreased Network Capacity

• The addition of 36 ports expands the overall capacity of the network, allowing for the connection of more devices and supporting increased data traffic.

Enhanced Performance

• The 40 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity ensures high-speed data transfer, contributing to improved network performance and reduced latency.

Scalability and Flexibility

• The module’s design and high-speed capabilities make it a scalable solution, adapting to the evolving needs of the network and supporting future growth.

Redundant Power Supply

The N9K-X9536PQ Cisco Nexus X9536PQ 40GB Expansion Module supports a redundant power supply for high availability. Here are some key points to note about the redundant power supply:

• The N9K-X9536PQ expansion module has two power supply bays, each of which can accommodate a hot-swappable power supply unit (PSU).
• The redundant power supply feature provides backup power in case of a power supply failure or outage, ensuring continuous operation of the expansion module and the switch.
• The power supplies operate in load-sharing mode, which means that the power load is distributed evenly across the two PSUs to ensure maximum efficiency and reliability.
• The redundant power supply feature is enabled by default on the N9K-X9536PQ expansion module.
• Each power supply is rated at 1100 watts and supports an AC input voltage range of 100-240V.
• The power supplies support power management features such as power capping and power monitoring, which allow administrators to monitor and regulate the power consumption of the expansion module and the switch.
• The power supplies are hot-swappable, which means that they can be replaced without shutting down the switch or disrupting network traffic.
• The switch will generate alarms and alerts in case of a power supply failure, allowing administrators to take prompt action to restore redundancy.

Diagnostic Tools

The N9K-X9536PQ Cisco Nexus X9536PQ 40GB Expansion Module comes with a range of troubleshooting and diagnostic tools that can help network administrators diagnose and resolve issues quickly and efficiently. Here are some of the key tools:

• Cisco DCNM: The Cisco Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) is a web-based management tool that provides a single-pane-of-glass view of the entire network infrastructure, including the N9K-X9536PQ expansion module. DCNM provides real-time monitoring, alerts, and performance metrics, allowing administrators to quickly identify and resolve issues.
• Cisco Smart Call Home: The Smart Call Home feature provides proactive, real-time monitoring of the N9K-X9536PQ expansion module and other network devices. The feature automatically generates alerts and notifications for critical events, such as hardware failures or software crashes, and can even open a support case with Cisco TAC (Technical Assistance Center) for faster resolution.
• Cisco Embedded Event Manager (EEM): The EEM is a powerful tool that allows network administrators to automate troubleshooting and diagnostic tasks. The EEM can be used to trigger actions based on predefined events, such as an interface going down or a specific log message being generated.
• Cisco Nexus Data Broker: The Nexus Data Broker provides a comprehensive view of network traffic, including packet capture and analysis, flow monitoring, and application visibility. This tool can help administrators identify and troubleshoot performance issues and security threats.
• Command-Line Interface (CLI): The CLI provides a powerful and flexible interface for configuring and managing the N9K-X9536PQ expansion module. The CLI also includes a range of diagnostic commands and tools, such as ping, traceroute, and show commands, which can help administrators troubleshoot issues at a granular level.
• Onboard Failure Logging (OBFL): The OBFL feature provides a persistent record of hardware and software events on the N9K-X9536PQ expansion module. This log can be accessed and analyzed even if the switch is powered off, and can help administrators diagnose and resolve issues that occurred in the past.

Deployment

The N9K-X9536PQ Cisco Nexus X9536PQ 40GB Expansion Module is a high-performance switch module that provides additional 40G Ethernet ports for the Cisco Nexus switch platform. Here are the basic steps for deploying and configuring the expansion module:

• Prepare the chassis: Make sure that the Cisco Nexus switch chassis is compatible with the N9K-X9536PQ expansion module and has sufficient power and cooling capacity to support the module.
• Install the expansion module: Insert the N9K-X9536PQ module into an available slot on the Cisco Nexus switch chassis. The module is hot-swappable, so it can be installed without powering down the switch.
• Connect the cables: Connect the Ethernet cables to the expansion module’s ports. The module supports 36 fixed 40G Ethernet ports, as well as an additional 12 ports that can be configured as either 40G Ethernet or 4x10G Ethernet ports using breakout cables.
• Configure the module: Once the expansion module is installed and connected, it needs to be configured to work with the rest of the network. This can be done using the Cisco Nexus switch’s management interface, such as the Command-Line Interface (CLI) or the web-based Cisco Data Center Network Manager (DCNM).
• Verify the configuration: Once the module is configured, verify that it is operating correctly by checking the switch logs, monitoring performance metrics, and testing connectivity.
• Optional: Configure advanced features: The N9K-X9536PQ module supports a range of advanced features, such as virtual port channels (vPC), Quality of Service (QoS), and security features. These features can be configured as needed to meet the requirements of the network.
• Monitor and maintain: Once the module is deployed and configured, it is important to monitor its performance and maintain it regularly. This can include tasks such as upgrading firmware, monitoring logs, and performance metrics, and replacing any failed components.

General Information about this Cisco N9K-X9536PQ

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Model Number or SKU# N9K-X9536PQ
• Product Name: Nexus X9536PQ Expansion Module
• Device Type: Expansion module
• Form Factor: Plug-in module

Networking

• Ports: 40 Gigabit QSFP+ x 36
• Connectivity Technology: Wired
• Data Link Protocol: 40 Gigabit LAN

Expansion / Connectivity

• Interfaces: 36 x 40Gb Ethernet – QSFP+

Compatibility Information

• Designed For Cisco Nexus 9504, 9504 Chassis Bundle, 9508, 9508 Chassis Bundle, 9516

In summary, the Cisco N9K-X9536PQ Nexus X9536PQ Expansion Module with 36 Ports of 40 Gigabit Ethernet, utilizing the QSFP+ form factor, stands as a valuable component for network expansion. Its capacity for high-speed data transfer, increased network capacity, and seamless integration with Cisco Nexus switches make it an essential solution for organizations seeking to enhance their network capabilities.