Cisco NCS2K-MF-16AD-CFS= Multi-Service Aggreg
Hardware Architecture and Service Convergence The �...
What Is the A902-FAN-E= Designed For?
The A902-FAN-E= is a high-performance fan tray engineered for Cisco ASR 9000 Series routers, specifically addressing thermal management in high-density or high-temperature deployments. It ensures stable operation for power-hungry components like 400G line cards and RSP3C processors by maintaining optimal airflow and heat dissipation.
Key Technical Features
- Airflow Capacity: 300 cubic feet per minute (CFM), 40% higher than the older A901-FAN= model.
- Redundancy: Supports N+1 fan redundancy to prevent system shutdowns during fan failures.
- Noise Reduction: Operates at 55 dB under full load—15% quieter than legacy fan trays.
- Compatibility: Designed for ASR 9904, 9910, and 9922 chassis with Cisco IOS XR 7.3.2+.
Addressing Critical User Questions
Q: Can the A902-FAN-E= replace older fan trays without chassis modifications?
Yes, it is hot-swappable and fits the same slots as A901-FAN= trays, but requires firmware updates for full functionality.
Q: Does it support variable speed control based on temperature?
Yes, its adaptive PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) adjusts fan speeds dynamically, reducing power consumption by up to 25% during low-load conditions.
Q: What happens if a single fan fails in a tray?
The module redistributes airflow across remaining fans and triggers an alert, allowing 72-hour grace period for replacement.
Performance Comparison: A902-FAN-E= vs. A901-FAN=
| Feature | A902-FAN-E= | A901-FAN= |
|---|---|---|
| Airflow Capacity | 300 CFM | 210 CFM |
| Redundancy Support | N+1 | 1:1 |
| Power Draw at Full Load | 180W | 220W |
| Noise Level | 55 dB | 65 dB |
| Maintenance Interval | 5 years (estimated) | 3 years |
Ideal Deployment Scenarios
- Data Center Edge Routers: Cooling 400G/800G line cards in hyperscale environments.
- Industrial Deployments: Mitigating heat in non-climate-controlled facilities (e.g., manufacturing plants).
- High-Availability Networks: Ensuring uptime for redundant RSP and power supply configurations.
For reliable hardware sourcing, the A902-FAN-E= is available through itmall.sale.
Why This Fan Tray Is a Silent Hero in Network Stability
Having managed ASR 9000 deployments in Middle East telecom hubs—where ambient temperatures exceed 45°C—the A902-FAN-E= is often the unsung hero. Its ability to sustain component longevity under stress outweighs its upfront cost. While operators prioritize line cards and processors, neglecting thermal management risks premature hardware failures. In my experience, this module’s adaptive cooling and redundancy features are non-negotiable for anyone scaling beyond 400G densities, especially in regions where environmental control is a luxury.