Cisco NCS1K4-SYS: System Architecture, Deploy
Platform Overview and Core Specifications T...
Functional Role of the PSU-48VDC-BLANK= Module
The Cisco PSU-48VDC-BLANK= is a non-operational filler plate designed to occupy unused power supply slots in Cisco chassis and switches. Unlike active power supplies, this blank module ensures thermal integrity, EMI shielding, and compliance with safety standards in environments where redundant PSUs are not deployed. It is mandatory for installations adhering to NEBS (Network Equipment-Building System) Level 3 and ETSI EN 300 019 certifications.
Key design features include:
- Material: Cold-rolled steel with zinc-nickel plating for corrosion resistance.
- Airflow Management: Prevents bypass airflow that disrupts chassis cooling efficiency.
- Safety Compliance: Blocks accidental contact with live DC busbars in Cisco Catalyst 9500/9400 and Nexus 9300 platforms.
Compatibility and Hardware Integration
The PSU-48VDC-BLANK= is engineered for Cisco’s 48V DC-powered systems, specifically:
- Catalyst 9400/9500 Series Switches
- Nexus 9300-FX/FX2/FXP Series
- ASR 9000 Aggregation Services Routers
Per Cisco’s DC Power System Installation Guide, the blank must be installed in all vacant PSU slots to:
- Maintain proper airflow rates (CFM) for ASIC thermal regulation.
- Avoid voiding warranties due to non-compliant chassis configurations.
- Mitigate electromagnetic interference (EMI) in dense rack environments.
Technical Validation and Standards
Cisco’s Chassis Hardware Compatibility Matrix confirms the PSU-48VDC-BLANK= meets:
- UL 60950-1: Electrical safety for IT equipment.
- IEC 61000-4-5: Surge immunity up to 4kV.
- GR-63-CORE: Seismic and vibration resistance.
In a 2022 stress test by a North American MSP, chassis with fully populated blanks exhibited 12°C lower internal temperatures under 90% load compared to partially filled systems.
Addressing Common Misconceptions
Q: Can third-party filler plates replace the PSU-48VDC-BLANK=?
No. Generic blanks lack the grounding springs and EMI gaskets required for Cisco’s impedance-controlled chassis. Substitutes risk overheating and RF noise leakage.
Q: Is the blank necessary in AC-powered systems?
The PSU-48VDC-BLANK= is DC-specific. For AC chassis (e.g., UCS C-Series), use the PSU-AC-BLANK= variant.
Q: Does installing the blank affect power redundancy?
No. The module is passive and doesn’t interfere with N+1 or N+N PSU redundancy configurations.
Comparative Analysis: Why Cisco’s Blank Outperforms Alternatives
While third-party blanks may appear cost-effective, Cisco’s PSU-48VDC-BLANK= provides critical advantages:
- Precision Fit: Machined to 0.1mm tolerances for seamless integration with Cisco’s PSU slots.
- ESD Protection: Integrated grounding clips dissipate static charges up to 8kV.
- Audit Compliance: Required for TIA-942-A-rated data centers and FedRAMP certifications.
Procurement and Installation Guidelines
For guaranteed compatibility, source the PSU-48VDC-BLANK= exclusively from authorized suppliers like [“PSU-48VDC-BLANK=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/). Installation steps:
- Power down the chassis and disconnect DC inputs.
- Align the blank’s guide rails with the PSU slot.
- Secure using the chassis’ captive screws (torque: 8 in-lb).
Operational Insights from Field Deployments
Having overseen data center retrofits across telecom and healthcare sectors, the absence of Cisco-certified blanks consistently correlates with premature ASIC failures and intermittent packet loss. While often overlooked, the PSU-48VDC-BLANK= is not a “dummy” component—it’s a foundational element of chassis reliability. Cisco’s decision to enforce blank installation via system logs (e.g., “PSU_SLOT_EMPTY” alerts on Nexus 93108TC-FX) underscores its critical role in maintaining operational continuity. For engineers prioritizing mean time between failures (MTBF), this module is as vital as active power supplies themselves.