Cisco C9300X-48HX-EDU: Why Is It Tailored for
Overview of the C9300X-48HX-EDU The C...
Product Overview and Target Market
The Cisco C1121-4PLTEP is a cellular-first, ruggedized router-switch tailored for industrial IoT and remote sites requiring uninterrupted connectivity. Combining 4x PoE+ ports, LTE Advanced connectivity, and MIL-spec durability, it serves sectors like utilities, mining, and transportation where wired networks are impractical or unreliable.
Core Technical Specifications
- Wireless Connectivity: LTE Cat 12 modem with 2x carrier aggregation, delivering up to 600 Mbps download speeds and fallback to 3G/2G.
- Port Configuration: 4x 10/100/1000BASE-T PoE+ ports (60W total budget) + 2x GE Combo ports (SFP/RJ45) for WAN/LAN flexibility.
- Durability: IP54-rated enclosure, -40°C to 70°C operation, and resistance to shocks/vibrations (15g operational, 40g non-operational).
- Security: Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN, IPsec VPN, and Cisco Umbrella integration for DNS-layer threat prevention.
Key Applications
- Smart Grids: Connects remote substations and SCADA systems with dual-SIM LTE redundancy.
- Mining Operations: Powers surveillance cameras and air quality sensors in underground environments.
- Fleet Management: Provides real-time GPS tracking and diagnostics for heavy machinery.
Licensing and Management
The Essentials License (included) enables:
- Zero-touch provisioning via Cisco DNA Center.
- Application-aware routing for prioritizing critical traffic like VoIP or telemetry.
- Basic VPN and firewall policies.
Upgrade to Advantage License for advanced analytics and encrypted traffic inspection.
Purchasing and Deployment
The C1121-4PLTEP is available through itmall.sale, often bundled with industrial mounting kits or LTE data plans. While priced higher than non-cellular C1100 models, its rugged design justifies costs for mission-critical deployments.
Addressing Critical User Concerns
Q: How many PoE+ devices can it support at full power?
With a 60W total budget, it can power two 30W devices (e.g., PTZ cameras) or four 15W devices (e.g., sensors).
Q: Can LTE serve as the primary WAN connection?
Yes—configured via SD-WAN policies to prioritize LTE or failover to wired links during congestion.
Q: Is 5G upgradable?
No—this model is LTE-only. For 5G, consider the C1123-8P with modular 5G radios.
Final Perspective
The C1121-4PLTEP bridges the gap between industrial resilience and cellular redundancy, but its LTE focus demands meticulous carrier selection. For teams operating in no-fail zones like energy grids or remote mining, it’s a lifeline—provided cellular coverage is verified. In less demanding environments, a standard PoE switch with external LTE modems might offer better cost efficiency.