In-Depth Cisco C9300X-NM-8Y= Datasheet, Technical Specifications, Features, and Pricing Guide

1. Product Overview

The Cisco C9300X-NM-8Y= is a high-performance network module designed exclusively for the Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series switches, which are part of Cisco’s flagship enterprise switching portfolio. This network module is engineered to provide advanced uplink connectivity options, enabling organizations to scale their network infrastructure with enhanced bandwidth, flexibility, and resiliency.

As enterprises increasingly demand higher throughput and low-latency connectivity to support cloud applications, IoT devices, and digital transformation initiatives, the C9300X-NM-8Y= module addresses these needs by delivering eight 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ ports. This module integrates seamlessly with the Catalyst 9300X chassis, leveraging Cisco’s IOS XE software platform to provide robust Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities, advanced security features, and programmability.

The C9300X-NM-8Y= is designed for network architects and engineers who require modular uplink options to optimize network topology, improve redundancy, and future-proof their infrastructure. It supports a wide range of SFP+ transceivers, allowing for flexible fiber or copper connectivity depending on deployment requirements.

2. Product Specifications

2.1 Physical and Environmental Specifications

The C9300X-NM-8Y= module is a hot-swappable network module that fits into the dedicated uplink slot of the Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series switches. Its compact form factor ensures minimal impact on chassis space while delivering maximum port density.

• Dimensions: Approximately 4.5 x 7.5 x 1.0 inches (HxWxD)
• Weight: Approximately 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs)
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F)
• Operating Humidity: 10% to 85% non-condensing
• Compliance: RoHS, WEEE, and other environmental standards

2.2 Network Interface Specifications

The core of the C9300X-NM-8Y= module is its eight 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ ports, which support a variety of transceiver types for flexible connectivity.

• Port Count: 8 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ ports
• Supported Transceivers: SFP+ SR, LR, LRM, and copper Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cables
• Data Rate: 10 Gbps per port
• Media Types: Multimode fiber, single-mode fiber, and copper
• Auto-negotiation: Not applicable (fixed 10G speed)
• Forwarding Bandwidth: Up to 80 Gbps aggregate uplink bandwidth

2.3 Software and Protocol Support

The C9300X-NM-8Y= module operates under Cisco IOS XE, providing extensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocol support, advanced security, and programmability features.

• Layer 2 Features: VLANs, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), Rapid STP, Multiple STP (MST), Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP)
• Layer 3 Features: OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, IS-IS, VRF, IPv4/IPv6 routing
• Security: 802.1X port-based authentication, Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI), IP Source Guard, MACsec support (dependent on switch model)
• Quality of Service (QoS): Advanced QoS including classification, marking, policing, shaping, and queuing
• Programmability: Support for Cisco DNA Center, SD-Access, REST APIs, and model-driven telemetry

2.4 Power and Cooling

The module is designed to operate efficiently within the Catalyst 9300X chassis power and cooling architecture.

• Power Consumption: Approximately 15W under typical load
• Cooling: Passive cooling via chassis airflow; no dedicated fans on the module

3. Features and Benefits

3.1 High-Density 10 Gigabit Uplink Connectivity

The C9300X-NM-8Y= provides eight dedicated 10G SFP+ ports, enabling network engineers to aggregate multiple access switches or connect to core and distribution layers with high throughput. This uplink density supports bandwidth-intensive applications such as video conferencing, virtualization, and cloud services.

3.2 Modular and Scalable Architecture

By leveraging a modular uplink design, the Catalyst