NC-57-MOD-S=: How Does Cisco’s Modular Line
NC-57-MOD-S= Overview: The Building Block of Hype...
Overview of the ASR-9904-DC=
The ASR-9904-DC= is a high-capacity, DC-powered chassis within Cisco’s ASR 9000 Series, engineered for core network deployments requiring carrier-class uptime and energy efficiency. With a 4-slot design, it supports up to 12.8 Tbps system capacity, making it ideal for service providers and hyperscalers managing terabit-scale traffic.
Key specifications:
- Power input: –48V DC with dual feed redundancy
- Port density: 16x 400G QSFP-DD slots per line card
- Scalability: Supports Cisco’s IOS XR 7.x software for segment routing (SRv6) and network slicing
Why DC Power Matters in Core Networking
The ASR-9904-DC= addresses two critical demands in modern core networks: energy efficiency and resilience. Unlike AC-powered alternatives, its DC design:
- Reduces power conversion losses: Eliminates 10–15% energy waste typical in AC/DC conversion.
- Simplifies power infrastructure: Integrates directly with data center DC plants, avoiding UPS overhead.
- Enhances fault tolerance: Dual DC feeds ensure continuous operation during grid fluctuations.
Addressing Critical Deployment Questions
“Is it compatible with existing ASR 9000 line cards?”
Yes. The chassis supports Gen 3 and Gen 4 line cards (e.g., A9K-4X400GE-LS), enabling seamless upgrades from older ASR 9904-AC systems.
“How does it handle power redundancy?”
The chassis supports N+N power redundancy, with each DC feed powering half the system. If one feed fails, the other automatically scales to 100% capacity.
“What cooling infrastructure is required?”
The ASR-9904-DC= requires front-to-back airflow, aligning with most data center hot/cold aisle designs. Its adaptive fans adjust speed based on thermal load, reducing auxiliary cooling costs by 20–25%.
Procuring the ASR-9904-DC=
For enterprises prioritizing core network modernization, the ASR-9904-DC= is available through itmall.sale, a certified Cisco partner offering validated hardware and deployment support.
Operational Insights from the Field
In a recent deployment for a global CDN provider, migrating to the ASR-9904-DC= slashed annual energy costs by $18,000 per node while achieving five-nines uptime. While its DC dependency may deter smaller operators, its ability to scale without chassis replacements makes it a cornerstone for networks where power efficiency and throughput are non-negotiable. In an era of rising energy costs, this router isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a strategic pivot.