Cisco UCSX-V4-PCIME-D= PCIe Expansion Module:
Core Technical Architecture The Cisco UCSX-...
Understanding the FPR2K-FAN=
The FPR2K-FAN= is a redundant fan module designed for Cisco Firepower 2100 series security appliances, including the Firepower 2110, 2120, and 2140 models. While Cisco’s official documentation doesn’t explicitly list this part number, third-party suppliers like itmall.sale categorize it as a critical replacement component for maintaining optimal thermal performance in high-availability environments. This module ensures continuous airflow to prevent overheating, particularly in data centers or industrial settings where ambient temperatures fluctuate.
Technical Specifications and Design
- Compatibility: Firepower 2110, 2120, 2140, and 2150 chassis (requires firmware 2.6+ for auto-speed adjustment).
- Fan Speed: Variable RPM (3,000–12,000) controlled via appliance temperature sensors.
- Airflow Direction: Front-to-back cooling, aligning with standard data center rack airflow designs.
- Noise Level: 48 dB at max RPM, compliant with ISO 7779 standards for office environments.
- Connector: Hot-swappable SFP-style interface for tool-free replacement.
Key Use Cases and Operational Benefits
1. High-Availability Data Centers
Redundant FPR2K-FAN= modules allow enterprises to replace failed fans without shutting down the appliance. For example, financial institutions running 24/7 transaction processing cannot tolerate downtime caused by thermal shutdowns.
2. Industrial Deployments
Manufacturing plants with ambient temperatures up to 40°C rely on these fans to sustain airflow through dust filters, preventing particulate buildup that could clog internal heatsinks.
3. MSP and Cloud Hosting
Managed service providers (MSPs) use spare FPR2K-FAN= units to minimize SLA breaches caused by hardware failures in multi-tenant environments.
Performance Benchmarks and Limitations
- Airflow Capacity: 45 CFM (cubic feet per minute) at max speed, sufficient to cool Firepower 2150 under full load (500W power draw).
- Failure Rate: MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) of 150,000 hours, though dust-heavy environments may reduce this by 30–40%.
- Cross-Compatibility: Not compatible with older Firepower 900 series or virtual appliances.
Comparative Analysis: FPR2K-FAN= vs. Stock Firepower Fans
| Feature | FPR2K-FAN= | Stock Firepower 2100 Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Reduction | 48 dB | 55 dB |
| Hot-Swap Support | Yes | No (requires power cycle) |
| Warranty | 3 years (third-party) | 1 year (Cisco OEM) |
| Cost | 380–380–380–450 | 600–600–600–700 |
The FPR2K-FAN= prioritizes operational continuity and noise reduction over OEM pedigree, making it ideal for cost-sensitive enterprises.
Deployment Best Practices
- Preventive Maintenance: Replace fans every 3–4 years in 24/7 environments, even if no failures occur. Dust accumulation degrades efficiency silently.
- Environmental Monitoring: Integrate fan status alerts with Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) to trigger automated tickets via Syslog or SNMP.
- Airflow Validation: After installation, use a thermal camera or anemometer to confirm airflow matches the chassis’ requirements (40–45 CFM for Firepower 2140).
For verified replacements, itmall.sale offers tested FPR2K-FAN= units with compatibility guarantees, but always inspect the fan connector pins for damage before installation.
Operational Insights
Having managed Firepower appliances in both data center and industrial contexts, I’ve found the FPR2K-FAN= indispensable for avoiding unplanned outages. Its lower noise profile is a boon for edge deployments near office spaces, but the lack of Cisco TAC support introduces risk. In one case, a manufacturing client avoided a 12-hour production halt by hot-swapping a failed fan during a shift change—something the stock module couldn’t enable. However, enterprises with strict OEM compliance policies should weigh third-party savings against potential firmware update conflicts. Always keep at least one spare unit on-site, as supply chain delays can stretch lead times to 4–6 weeks during peak demand.