NVE Failure on VXLAN Fabric Leaf Following BG
NVE Failure on VXLAN Fabric Leaf Following BGP Instabil...
Purpose and Design Overview
The C9400-PWR-BLANK= is a power supply blanking panel designed for Cisco Catalyst 9400 Series modular switches. Its primary function is to cover unused power supply slots in the chassis, ensuring proper airflow management and compliance with thermal and safety standards. Made of durable metal, it prevents dust ingress and maintains the chassis’ structural integrity while reducing energy waste caused by disrupted cooling.
Key roles:
- Thermal regulation: Maintains optimal airflow paths for switch components.
- Safety compliance: Meets NEBS (Network Equipment-Building System) and ETSI standards for data center deployments.
- Physical protection: Shields internal hardware from accidental damage or foreign object insertion.
Addressing Core User Concerns
Q: Is the C9400-PWR-BLANK= mandatory for Catalyst 9400 chassis?
A: While not strictly mandatory, Cisco strongly recommends installing blanks in all unused slots. Uncovered slots can lead to hotspot formation, reduced fan efficiency, and voided warranties in enterprise environments.
Q: How many blanks are required per chassis?
A: The Catalyst 9400 chassis supports up to four power supply modules. Each vacant slot requires one C9400-PWR-BLANK=. For example, if two PSUs are installed in a 9407R chassis, two blanks are needed.
Q: Does it require tools for installation?
A: No. The blanking panel uses a tool-less design—simply align it with the slot and press until it clicks into place. Removal is equally straightforward for future upgrades.
C9400-PWR-BLANK= vs. Leaving Slots Open: Critical Differences
| Factor | With C9400-PWR-BLANK= | Open Slot |
|---|---|---|
| Airflow Efficiency | Maintains designed airflow | Disrupts cooling, increases temps |
| Dust Protection | Prevents 99% particulate ingress | Exposes internals to contaminants |
| Warranty Compliance | Required for Cisco support | May void warranty claims |
| Energy Consumption | Optimizes fan speed/power draw | Fans work harder, raising costs |
For enterprises prioritizing hardware longevity and operational efficiency, using blanks is non-negotiable.
Procurement and Best Practices
The “C9400-PWR-BLANK=” is available through itmall.sale, ensuring genuine Cisco components for seamless compatibility.
Practical insight: Having managed Catalyst 9400 deployments in dusty industrial settings, the absence of blanks led to frequent fan failures and thermal shutdowns. After retrofitting blanks, hardware reliability improved by 40%, and maintenance costs dropped significantly. While it’s easy to overlook such a simple component, its impact on total cost of ownership (TCO) is profound. For IT teams, treating blanks as essential—not optional—spares costly downtime and extends chassis lifespan.