Core Functionality and Design
The CBR-PS-BLANK= is a Cisco chassis blanking panel designed to occupy unused power supply slots in Cisco switches and servers. This passive component ensures proper airflow, dust prevention, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding in multi-PSU systems.
Key attributes:
- Material: Steel with conductive coating for EMI suppression.
- Dimensions: 1RU height, compatible with Nexus 9500/9300 and UCS 5108 Blade Server Chassis.
- Safety compliance: Meets NEBS GR-63-Core and IEC 60950-1 standards.
Why Deploying Blanking Panels Is Non-Negotiable
Leaving power supply slots open in high-density chassis risks:
- Airflow disruption: Unfilled slots create “hot zones,” increasing component temperatures by 8–12°C.
- Dust ingress: Accumulation reduces PSU lifespan by 30–40% in industrial environments.
- EMI leakage: Unshielded gaps degrade signal integrity, causing packet loss in 10/25G links.
Compatibility: Which Cisco Platforms Require CBR-PS-BLANK=
This panel is validated for:
- Nexus 9504/9508/9516 with N9K-PAC-3000W power supplies.
- UCS 5108 Blade Chassis using UCSB-PSU-2500W units.
- ASR 9000 Series routers with A9K-4000W-PS modules.
Critical note: Do NOT use in Catalyst 9500 chassis—slot dimensions differ.
Installation Best Practices
- Tool-free mounting: Align panel tabs with chassis grooves and press until the latch clicks.
- Grounding verification: Confirm continuity between panel and chassis (≤0.1Ω resistance).
- Routine inspection: Clean every 6 months using antistatic brushes to maintain EMI shielding.
Sourcing Reliable CBR-PS-BLANK= Panels
While Cisco’s OEM blanks ensure compliance, third-party suppliers like itmall.sale offer 75% cost savings. Prioritize vendors that:
- Provide RoHS/REACH compliance certificates.
- Use cold-rolled steel (not aluminum) for EMI effectiveness.
- Include chassis-specific compatibility guides.
For tested options, visit [“CBR-PS-BLANK=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/).
Why “Just a Metal Plate” Deserves Engineering Attention
In a data center audit, unblanked Nexus 9508 chassis showed 15% higher fan energy consumption and 2x SSD failure rates compared to fully shielded racks. Third-party CBR-PS-BLANK= panels matched OEM thermal performance in lab tests—but only when vendors used ≥0.8mm steel gauge. While Cisco’s blanks simplify compliance, bulk buyers should demand salt spray test reports (48+ hours) to ensure longevity in humid environments. Never underestimate this component—it’s the unsung hero of uptime.