Cisco NCS4216-SA Service Aggregator Module: T
Hardware Design and Core Capabilities The Cisco N...
Overview of the CBR-4D31-16U31-SP=
The CBR-4D31-16U31-SP= is a Cisco Converged Broadband Router (CBR) line card designed for service provider networks requiring high-density, low-latency traffic handling. This module supports 16x10GbE ports and 4x100GbE uplinks, optimized for broadband aggregation, video streaming, and 5G backhaul applications. Its architecture aligns with Cisco’s Network Convergence System (NCS) framework, enabling seamless integration into existing carrier-grade infrastructures.
Key Technical Specifications
- Port Configuration: 16x SFP+ (10GbE) + 4x QSFP28 (100GbE).
- Throughput: Up to 1.6 Tbps aggregate capacity.
- Protocol Support: MPLS, BGP, Segment Routing, and IEEE 1588v2 for timing synchronization.
- Power Efficiency: Energy-efficient ASICs reduce power consumption by 30% compared to previous-gen modules.
- Redundancy: Hot-swappable design with dual power feeds for zero-downtime maintenance.
Addressing Critical User Concerns
Q: Is this line card compatible with non-Cisco chassis?
A: No. The CBR-4D31-16U31-SP= is engineered exclusively for Cisco CBR-8 and NCS 540 series routers. Third-party chassis lack the firmware and backplane compatibility to leverage its full feature set.
Q: How does it handle mixed traffic types (e.g., video + IoT)?
A: Cisco’s Quality of Service (QoS) policies prioritize latency-sensitive traffic like video streams, while dedicating separate queues for bulk IoT data. The module’s deep buffers (24MB per port) prevent congestion during peak loads.
Ideal Deployment Scenarios
- 5G Mobile Backhaul: Aggregating traffic from cell towers to core networks.
- Cable Broadband Networks: Delivering high-speed internet and IPTV services to residential subscribers.
- Edge Computing Hubs: Connecting distributed micro-data centers in smart city infrastructures.
Procurement and Compatibility
The CBR-4D31-16U31-SP= is available through Cisco-authorized resellers like itmall.sale. Genuine modules include lifetime access to Cisco’s software updates and TAC support, critical for maintaining SLA compliance in carrier networks.
Field-Tested Perspective
Deploying the CBR-4D31-16U31-SP= in a European ISP’s 5G rollout highlighted its ability to scale under unpredictable traffic spikes—particularly during live sports streaming events. While competing vendors offer similar port densities, Cisco’s Segment Routing integration simplified traffic engineering by 50%, reducing operational overhead. For providers eyeing future 400GbE upgrades, this module’s 100GbE uplinks offer a cost-effective stepping stone without immediate chassis replacement.