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Key Specifications and PoE Capabilities The...
What Is the DS-C9710-CBTOP= Module?
The Cisco DS-C9710-CBTOP= serves as the top-of-rack (ToR) fabric module for the MDS 9710 Multilayer Director, a cornerstone of enterprise storage area networks (SANs). This component enables seamless integration with Cisco’s Fabric-3 technology, delivering 2.4 Tbps per slot bandwidth for hyperscale data centers requiring ultra-low latency and non-blocking performance. Unlike base configurations like the DS-C9710-1K9, the CBTOP= variant focuses on horizontal scaling through optimized crossbar switching architecture.
Key Technical Specifications
- Port Density: Supports up to 384 Fibre Channel ports via 48-port 32Gbps line cards, ideal for NVMe-oF workloads.
- Compatibility: Requires Supervisor-4 modules (DS-X97-SF4-K9) for full NX-OS 8.4+ feature support, including FC-Redirect and NPIV enhancements.
- Power Efficiency: Integrates with 3K AC/DC power shelves, reducing energy consumption by 18% compared to Fabric-1 configurations.
- Redundancy: Dual active fabric modules ensure 99.999% uptime in mission-critical environments.
DS-C9710-CBTOP= vs. Legacy Fabric Modules: Performance Tradeoffs
| Feature | DS-C9710-CBTOP= | Fabric-1 (DS-X9710-FAB1) |
|---|---|---|
| Bandwidth per Slot | 2.4 Tbps | 1.2 Tbps |
| Max ISL Scalability | 10:1 oversubscription | 5:1 oversubscription |
| NX-OS Compatibility | 8.4+ (NVMe-oF, FC-Redirect) | Limited to 8.1x (No NVMe-oF support) |
| Typical Use Case | AI/ML storage clusters | Legacy FC SAN expansions |
Critical Considerations:
- Cost: The CBTOP= module’s global list price exceeds **150,000∗∗,whilerefurbishedFabric−1unitson<ahref=”https://itmall.sale/product−category/cisco/”target=”blank”>itmall.sale</a>startat150,000**, while refurbished Fabric-1 units on itmall.sale start at 150,000∗∗,whilerefurbishedFabric−1unitson<ahref=“https://itmall.sale/product−category/cisco/”target=“blank“>itmall.sale</a>startat28,000.
- Lifecycle: Fabric-3 modules guarantee 7-year hardware support, versus Fabric-1’s end-of-life status in 2026.
Why Deploy DS-C9710-CBTOP= in Modern SANs?
- Hyperscale Readiness: Supports 32G/64G FC and NVMe over Fabrics, reducing latency by 43% for real-time analytics.
- Unified Management: Integrates with Cisco DCNM for end-to-end visibility across hybrid cloud storage tiers.
- Regulatory Compliance: Built-in FIPS 140-2 encryption meets GDPR/HIPAA requirements for healthcare and financial sectors.
Final Insights
The DS-C9710-CBTOP= redefines ToR switching for enterprises transitioning to NVMe-driven infrastructures. While its upfront cost is substantial, the 2.4 Tbps throughput and 10:1 oversubscription justify investments in AI/ML or big data environments. For organizations prioritizing budget over bleeding-edge performance, certified refurbished MDS 9710 configurations with Fabric-1 modules remain viable through trusted partners like itmall.sale. Always validate interoperability with existing FC switches and plan for phased Fabric-3 adoption to minimize operational disruption.