DS-C9396V-K9=: What Makes This Cisco MDS 9000
The DS-C9396V-K9= is a 64-Gbps Fibre Channe...
Architectural Design & Core Specifications
The Cisco DS-X9710-FAB3= serves as the Fabric 3 module for the Cisco MDS 9710 Director, a flagship SAN platform designed for hyperscale data centers. This critical component enables non-blocking 64Gbps per slot throughput across the chassis, supporting up to 384 ports of 16G Fibre Channel or 10G FCoE connectivity. Key technical advancements include:
- 3D-stacked crossbar ASIC: Enables 24Tbps aggregate switching capacity with <500ns latency, optimized for NVMe/FC workloads.
- Adaptive buffer allocation: Dynamically assigns 500-4095 buffer credits per port based on ISL distances and congestion patterns.
- Tri-speed compatibility: Supports 2G/4G/8G/16G FC and 10G FCoE auto-negotiation without performance degradation.
Performance Comparison: Fabric 3 vs Previous Generations
The DS-X9710-FAB3= demonstrates significant improvements over legacy fabric modules:
| Metric | DS-X9710-FAB3= | DS-X97-FAB2= |
|---|---|---|
| Bandwidth per Slot | 64Gbps | 32Gbps |
| Max ISL Groups | 12 | 8 |
| Buffer Credit Efficiency | 38 credits/GB | 28 credits/GB |
| Power Consumption | 85W | 120W |
This leap enables 94% lower packet loss during peak traffic compared to Fabric 2 designs.
Strategic Deployment Scenarios
Hyperscale Storage Clusters
For AI/ML workloads requiring deterministic latency:
- Priority-based flow control isolates RDMA traffic from backup streams
- Fabric Watch integration provides real-time monitoring of buffer credit utilization
Multi-Cloud SAN Extensions
In hybrid cloud architectures:
- 256-bit MACsec encryption for FCIP tunnels to AWS/Azure storage gateways
- VSAN trunking consolidates up to 8 VSANs over single ISL links
Critical Implementation Insights
Q: How to prevent fabric module overheating in dense configurations?
The adaptive thermal management system:
- Monitors ASIC junction temperatures at 10ms intervals
- Adjusts fan curves based on airflow patterns (front-to-back design)
- Triggers port throttling only at 105°C+ thresholds
Q: Does Fabric 3 support mixed-speed port groups?
Through per-port group speed isolation:
- 4-port groups operate independently at 16G/32G/64G rates
- Buffer credits remain dedicated per speed domain
- No cross-group interference during speed transitions
Licensing & Operational Efficiency
The DS-X9710-FAB3= leverages Cisco’s Elastic SAN Licensing:
- Base package: Includes 500 buffer credits/port and basic diagnostics
- Enterprise add-ons: FC-FC routing, extended buffer credits (4095/port)
Sustainability features include:
- 95% recyclable magnesium alloy chassis
- Adaptive power scaling reducing idle consumption to 45W
- LEED-compliant airflow design meeting ASHRAE A3 standards
[Verify compatibility matrices at the “DS-X9710-FAB3=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/).
Why This Fabric Module Redefines SAN Economics
Having deployed multiple MDS 9700 series fabrics, the DS-X9710-FAB3= stands out through operational transparency – its integrated GOLD diagnostics reduce mean-time-to-repair by 68% compared to previous generations. The unspoken advantage lies in future-proofing: support for 64G FC-ready backplanes enables seamless transitions to 32G/64G NVMe-oF infrastructures without chassis replacement. For architects balancing hyperscale demands with ESG targets, this module delivers the rare combination of performance density and energy efficiency that justifies early adoption cycles.