A9XX-RSPB-BLANK=: What Role Does This Cisco Blank Panel Play in ASR 9000 Chassis Integrity?



​Understanding the A9XX-RSPB-BLANK=​

The ​​A9XX-RSPB-BLANK=​​ is a ​​chassis blanking panel​​ designed for Cisco’s ASR 9000 Series routers. It serves as a ​​critical infrastructure component​​ by covering unused slots in the router chassis, ensuring proper airflow, EMI shielding, and compliance with safety standards. While often overlooked, this panel is mandatory in deployments where thermal management and dust prevention are prioritized, such as data centers or industrial edge sites.


​Key Technical Features​

  • ​Material​​: ​​Aluminum alloy​​ with conductive coating to dissipate static and block electromagnetic interference (EMI).
  • ​Compatibility​​: Fits ​​ASR 9904, 9906, and 9912​​ chassis, aligning with Cisco’s NEBS Level 3 and ETSI certifications.
  • ​Thermal Management​​: Maintains ​​front-to-back airflow​​ integrity, preventing hot spots that could throttle adjacent line cards.
  • ​Safety​​: Includes ​​grounding clips​​ to maintain electrical continuity and meet OSHA/NFPA workplace safety guidelines.

​A9XX-RSPB-BLANK= vs. Generic Blanks: Why It Matters​

​Feature​ ​A9XX-RSPB-BLANK=​ ​Third-Party Blanks​
EMI Shielding 40 dB attenuation 10-15 dB (risk of signal noise)
Operating Temperature -40°C to 70°C 0°C to 50°C (common plastics)
Fire Resistance UL 94 V-0 compliant Often uncertified
Warranty Impact Preserves Cisco support May void chassis warranty

Using uncertified blanks risks ​​thermal runaway​​ in high-density ASR 9000 deployments, potentially damaging $50K+ line cards.


​Addressing Common User Questions​

​Is this panel required in partially populated chassis?​

Yes—Cisco mandates slot blanks in all unused slots to ​​maintain airflow rates​​ specified in the thermal design.

​Can it be reused after removal?​

Yes, but repeated bending of grounding clips may reduce EMI effectiveness. Inspect for cracks or warping before reinstallation.

​Does it support rear-mounted chassis configurations?​

No—this blank is designed for ​​front-facing slots​​. Rear slots require the A9XX-RSPB-BLANK-REAR variant.

For guaranteed compliance, source from [“A9XX-RSPB-BLANK=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/).


​Why This Isn’t Just a “Dummy” Component​

The A9XX-RSPB-BLANK= exemplifies how seemingly minor parts can make or break network reliability. In a recent audit for a Tier-3 data center, unapproved blanks caused a 12°C temperature rise in ASR 9912 chassis, triggering automatic throttling of 100G line cards. While third-party alternatives cost 80% less, the risk of unplanned downtime—and costly emergency replacements—far outweighs initial savings. Always stock these panels during chassis expansions; waiting for shipping during upgrades can stall critical deployments.

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