N9K-C93108TC-FX3H: What Is This Cisco Switch?
Hardware Overview and Key Specifications Th...
Core Specifications and Design
The Cisco Catalyst C9200-48T-1A is a 48-port Layer 3 switch designed for enterprise networks prioritizing non-PoE connectivity and cost efficiency. It features 48x 10/100/1000BASE-T ports and 4x 1G SFP uplinks, making it ideal for environments where Power over Ethernet (PoE) isn’t a requirement. Built on Cisco’s DNA Center-ready architecture, it supports automated network management and zero-touch deployment.
Key highlights:
- No PoE support, reducing upfront costs for deployments without power-hungry devices.
- StackWise-320 technology, enabling up to 8 switches to operate as a single unit with 3.2 Tbps stacking bandwidth.
- Advanced security with MACsec encryption, Cisco TrustSec, and role-based access control (RBAC).
Performance and Scalability
The C9200-48T-1A delivers 176 Gbps switching capacity and a 130.95 Mpps forwarding rate, ensuring seamless performance for high-traffic scenarios like data centers or enterprise backbones. Its energy-efficient design complies with IEEE 802.3az standards, reducing power consumption during low-usage periods.
Ideal workloads:
- Data aggregation for server farms or storage systems.
- LAN connectivity in office environments with wired desktops or printers.
- Backbone support for non-PoE IoT devices (e.g., sensors, digital displays).
Comparison with Other Cisco Catalyst 9200 Models
| Feature | C9200-48T-1A | C9200-48PL-A (PoE+) | C9200-48PXG-1A (10G uplinks) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PoE Support | None | 740W PoE+ budget | 740W PoE+ budget |
| Uplink Speed | 1G SFP | 1G SFP | 10G SFP+ |
| Best For | Cost-sensitive, non-PoE | IP phones, basic APs | High-power IoT, Wi-Fi 6/6E |
The 48T-1A stands out for simplified deployments where PoE isn’t needed, avoiding the complexity and cost of unused power features.
Addressing Key User Concerns
Q: Can this switch be upgraded to support PoE later?
No. The 48T-1A lacks PoE hardware. For PoE needs, consider the C9200-48PL-A or deploy external power injectors.
Q: Is it compatible with 10G uplinks?
While the 48T-1A includes only 1G SFP uplinks, its StackWise-320 technology aggregates bandwidth across stacked units, simulating higher throughput. For native 10G, the C9200-48PXG-1A is a better fit.
Deployment Tips and Licensing
- Use Network Advantage licensing to unlock SD-Access, application visibility, and encrypted traffic analytics.
- For redundancy, add a hot-swappable power supply (sold separately).
- Explore pricing and availability at the authorized distributor “C9200-48T-1A”.
Strategic Considerations
The C9200-48T-1A is a pragmatic choice for enterprises seeking high-density Gigabit connectivity without PoE overhead. While it lacks the versatility of PoE models, its lower cost and robust Layer 3 features make it ideal for budget-conscious IT teams. Organizations should weigh long-term needs carefully—opting for this model only if PoE and 10G uplinks are definitively unnecessary. For growing networks, investing in PoE-capable switches might prevent costly upgrades later.