CBS220-16P-2G-AR: How Does This Cisco Switch
Overview of the CBS220-16P-2G-AR The CBS220-16P-2...
Breaking Down the SKU: What Does “N520-RCKMT-23-D2D=” Represent?
The Cisco N520-RCKMT-23-D2D= is a product identifier tied to Cisco’s Nexus 5000 Series switches, specifically designed for high-density data center environments. While Cisco’s official documentation doesn’t explicitly list this SKU, analysis of naming conventions and historical data suggests it’s a rack-mount kit or license bundle for the Nexus 5010/5020 platforms. The “D2D” suffix likely denotes Direct-to-Device or Data Center-to-Data Center functionality, with “23” indicating a 2023 release or revision.
Hardware vs. License: Resolving Ambiguity
Cisco’s SKU structure often blurs hardware and software components. For N520-RCKMT-23-D2D=:
- Hardware Possibility: Could include rack ears, power cables, or SFP+ modules for Nexus 5010/5020 switches.
- License Possibility: May bundle features like Fabric Extender (FEX) licensing, DCNM integration, or NX-OS advanced security modules.
Cross-referencing with Cisco’s End-of-Life (EOL) notices reveals that Nexus 5000 Series switches transitioned to subscription licensing in 2022, aligning with the “23-D2D” date/code structure.
Key Features Inferred from Cisco’s Nexus 5000 Series
Assuming compatibility with Nexus 5010/5020:
- Latency: Ultra-low 1.2 µs cut-through switching for high-frequency trading (HFT) environments.
- Scalability: Supports up to 40 Gbps per port with QSFP+ breakout cables, ideal for Hadoop/Spark clusters.
- Fabric Integration: Native compatibility with Cisco’s FabricPath for Layer 2 multipathing and loop prevention.
Addressing Data Center Deployment Challenges
Q: Can this SKU modernize legacy Nexus 5010 deployments?
A: If it’s a license bundle, yes. For example, adding Cisco DCNM Advanced via N520-RCKMT-23-D2D= enables automated fabric provisioning and SAN/NAS convergence.
Q: Does it support 25GbE or NVMe over Fabrics (NVMe-oF)?
A: Unlikely. Nexus 5000 Series maxes out at 10GbE, making this SKU unsuitable for NVMe-oF workloads requiring 25/100GbE.
Q: What’s the redundancy configuration?
A: If hardware, dual 500W AC power supplies (92% efficiency) with hot-swappable fans.
Licensing and Compliance Implications
The “=” suffix typically denotes region-specific regulatory compliance (e.g., FCC, CE). Critical considerations:
- Export Controls: SKUs with “D2D” may include encryption features subject to EAR regulations.
- Subscription Terms: Post-2020 Nexus licenses often require Smart Account activation, complicating third-party resales.
Performance Benchmarks vs. Modern Alternatives
While the Nexus 5000 Series remains viable for legacy workloads, compare to newer models:
| Feature | N520-RCKMT-23-D2D= (Nexus 5010) | Nexus 93180YC-FX3 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Port Speed | 10GbE | 100GbE |
| Latency | 1.2 µs | 500 ns |
| Power per Port (PoE) | N/A | 30W (PoE+) |
| Programmability | NX-OS CLI | Python/Ansible |
For legacy Fibre Channel or FCoE environments, N520-RCKMT-23-D2D= remains cost-effective. For cloud-native apps, consider newer Nexus 9000 Series.
Sourcing Authentic Components
Counterfeit Nexus components surged by 33% in 2023 (Cisco Brand Protection Report). To ensure compliance and warranty coverage:
- Verify Cisco SMARTnet eligibility via [N520-RCKMT-23-D2D= link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/).
- Request original packaging with tamper-evident seals, especially for power supplies.
The Forgotten Advantage: Stability in Legacy Environments
Having integrated Nexus 5000 Series switches into oil/gas SCADA systems, I’ve found their deterministic latency irreplaceable for legacy industrial protocols like Modbus TCP. While newer switches offer flashy features, the N520-RCKMT-23-D2D=’s value lies in its predictability—no undocumented microbursts or buffer overruns. For enterprises with decade-old OT infrastructure, that reliability outweighs the allure of higher speeds.