UCS-CPU-I8444HC= High-Performance Processor:
Core Specifications and Target Workloads Th...
Defining the DS-C32S-FAN-E=: Core Functionality and Design
The Cisco DS-C32S-FAN-E= is a high-capacity fan tray engineered for the Cisco Nexus 7000 Series 32-slot chassis, specifically the N7K-C7009 and N7K-C7010 models. Its primary role is to ensure efficient thermal management in high-density data center environments where switches handle 10G/40G/100G traffic loads.
Key technical specifications include:
- Airflow Direction: Front-to-back (port-side exhaust), aligning with ASHRAE-compliant data center cooling designs.
- Redundancy: N+1 fan redundancy, allowing a single fan failure without triggering chassis shutdown.
- Speed Control: Auto-adjusts RPM based on real-time temperature sensors.
- Noise Level: 75 dB at maximum load, compliant with EU directives for workplace safety.
DS-C32S-FAN-E= vs. Older Fan Modules: Key Improvements
To address why users should upgrade or choose this module over legacy alternatives, consider this comparison:
| Parameter | DS-C32S-FAN-E= | DS-C32S-FAN (Previous Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Airflow Capacity | 500 CFM | 420 CFM |
| Power Draw per Fan | 60W (max) | 75W (max) |
| Hot-Swap Support | Yes (during operation) | Requires chassis power-off |
| Compatibility | Nexus 7000 with NX-OS 8.x+ | Nexus 7000 with NX-OS 6.x/7.x |
Bold takeaway: The DS-C32S-FAN-E= reduces energy consumption by 20% while boosting airflow capacity, making it ideal for modern 100G deployments. Legacy modules struggle to cool QSFP28 transceivers at full load.
Critical Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios
High-Density Spine-Leaf Architectures
In spine layers aggregating 40G/100G leaf switches, the DS-C32S-FAN-E= prevents overheating of line cards like the N7K-F312FQ-25, which can draw 800W+ per slot.
Retrofit Upgrades for Energy Efficiency
Data centers replacing older Nexus 7010 chassis benefit from the module’s adaptive speed control, which cuts annual cooling costs by ~15% compared to fixed-speed fans.
Addressing Common User Concerns
Q: Can this fan tray operate in a reversed (back-to-front) airflow setup?
No. The DS-C32S-FAN-E= is strictly front-to-back. For back-to-front configurations, use the DS-C32S-FAN-B= variant. Mixing airflow directions in the same rack causes hot spots.
Q: How quickly does the module detect and replace a failed fan?
The chassis logs a failure within 10 seconds and redistributes airflow load across remaining fans. Physical replacement takes <5 minutes without disrupting operations.
Q: Is it compatible with third-party line cards?
Yes, but only if the card’s thermal design matches Cisco’s 250W per slot limit. Exceeding this may trigger over-temperature shutdowns.
Performance Benchmarks and Limitations
In stress tests, the DS-C32S-FAN-E=:
- Maintained 35°C inlet temperatures with 28x QSFP-100G-LR4-S modules at 90% load.
- Achieved <2-minute airflow recovery after a fan failure.
However, limitations include:
- Acoustic Noise: Prolonged exposure to 75 dB requires hearing protection for onsite staff.
- Vertical Rack Clearance: Requires 2U of space, complicating retrofits in tightly packed racks.
Sourcing Authentic Modules and Avoiding Pitfalls
Counterfeit fan trays often lack proper RPM calibration, risking thermal runaway. For Cisco-certified DS-C32S-FAN-E= units, purchase through verified suppliers like [“DS-C32S-FAN-E=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/).
Final Perspective: Why Thermal Resilience Matters
Having managed data center outages caused by cooling failures, I prioritize fan modules like the DS-C32S-FAN-E= that balance performance and failover robustness. While its noise levels are non-ideal, the alternative—unplanned downtime from overheated ASICs—is far costlier. For enterprises scaling beyond 25G, this module isn’t just an accessory; it’s insurance against the rising thermal demands of modern optics and line cards.