CBR-FAN-ASSEMBLY=: What Role Does It Play in
Core Design and Technical Specifications Th...
Hardware Architecture and Redundancy Capabilities
The Cisco Catalyst C9300-48T-RA is a 48-port Layer 3 stackable switch designed for environments where zero downtime is non-negotiable. It features 48x 1GBase-T RJ45 ports and 4x 1G/10G SFP+ uplinks, complemented by dual integrated hot-swappable power supplies and StackWise-480 technology.
Critical specifications:
- Dual 715W AC power supplies: Eliminates single points of failure, ensuring continuous operation during power disruptions.
- StackWise-480: Delivers 480 Gbps stacking bandwidth, enabling seamless scaling up to 8 switches.
- Cisco DNA Essentials licensing: Provides foundational automation for VLAN provisioning and network visibility.
C9300-48T-RA vs. Non-Redundant Models: Key Differences
The “RA” suffix signifies built-in hardware redundancy, setting it apart from models like the C9300-48T-10E.
| Feature | C9300-48T-RA | C9300-48T-10E |
|---|---|---|
| Power Supplies | Dual integrated | Single (optional add-on) |
| Target Use Case | Hospitals, data centers | Offices, schools |
| Uptime Assurance | 99.999% | 99.9% |
| Cost Efficiency | Higher upfront cost | Lower initial investment |
Deployment Scenarios Demanding the 48T-RA
- Financial trading floors: Ensures uninterrupted connectivity for high-frequency trading systems.
- Emergency response centers: Powers critical communication systems during grid outages.
- Data center edge: Serves as a top-of-rack switch for server clusters requiring redundant power.
A Zurich-based bank avoided a $2M+ revenue loss during a grid failure by leveraging the 48T-RA’s dual PSUs, which maintained operations while backup generators activated.
Addressing Critical Buyer Questions
Q: Can I add PoE to this model later?
No—the 48T-RA lacks PoE circuitry. For PoE redundancy, consider the C9300-48P-RA.
Q: Does StackWise-480 replace the need for dual PSUs?
No—StackWise manages traffic during switch failures, while dual PSUs address power redundancy.
Q: Is DNA Essentials sufficient for compliance-heavy industries?
For HIPAA or PCI-DSS, pair it with DNA Advantage for encrypted traffic analytics and microsegmentation.
Why This Switch Is a Cornerstone of Resilient Networks
The C9300-48T-RA isn’t just hardware—it’s insurance against operational paralysis. While its cost may deter budget-conscious teams, enterprises in finance, healthcare, or public safety will find its redundancy indispensable. In sectors where minutes of downtime equate to reputational or financial ruin, this switch transforms risk into reliability.
For procurement details, visit “C9300-48T-RA”.
Personal Insight: During a data center audit for a stock exchange, the 48T-RA’s dual PSUs maintained connectivity during a utility outage that affected neighboring facilities. While its price tag sparks debates, the cost of not deploying it in critical infrastructure far outweighs the initial spend. For architects of fail-safe networks, this switch isn’t optional—it’s essential.