Product Overview and Core Design Objectives
The Cisco SKY-2F25-1URS= is a 1U rack-mounted power distribution unit (PDU) engineered for industrial and enterprise environments requiring dual AC/DC input redundancy and precision power monitoring. Designed to support Cisco’s ruggedized networking equipment, this PDU delivers 2.5 kW continuous power with an operational voltage range of 90–264V AC or –48V DC, ensuring compatibility with diverse grid and backup power systems. Its hardened construction addresses challenges in environments prone to voltage fluctuations, EMI, and extreme temperatures.
Technical Specifications and Operational Resilience
Electrical Performance
- Input Flexibility: Dual 20A AC or 30A DC inputs with automatic failover (≤5 ms transfer time).
- Output Capacity: 12×C13 outlets (10A max each) + 4×C19 outlets (16A max each), supporting N+1 load sharing.
- Efficiency: 96% typical at 50% load, compliant with 80 PLUS Platinum standards.
Environmental and Mechanical Robustness
- Operating Temperature: -40°C to 75°C, validated per IEC 60068-2-1/2 for thermal shock resistance.
- Ingress Protection: IP54-rated front panel, shielding against dust and water splashes.
- Vibration Resistance: 5 Grms (5–500 Hz) operational vibration per MIL-STD-810G.
Target Applications and Industry Use Cases
Industrial IoT (IIoT) Edge Deployments
Powers Cisco IE3400 Heavy Duty switches in oil refineries, sustaining operations during brownouts (70–90V AC) common in remote sites.
Telecom Central Offices
- 5G BBU (Baseband Unit) Power Backup: Integrates with Cisco ASR 9900 routers and Cisco Ultra Packet Core for <1 ms power failover.
- NEBS Compliance: Meets GR-63-CORE seismic zone 4 requirements for earthquake-prone regions.
Military Mobile Command Centers
Supports Cisco’s Tactical Edge Platform in armored vehicles, withstanding 50G shock and 98% humidity per MIL-STD-461F.
Compatibility and Integration with Cisco Ecosystems
Supported Devices
- Routers: ASR 9000, ISR 4451-X with PWR-4450-AC power supplies.
- Switches: Catalyst 9500-48Y4C, Nexus 93180YC-FX3 in stacked configurations.
Software Management
- Cisco EnergyWise: Monitors per-outlet power consumption via SNMPv3 or RESTCONF API.
- Crosswork Network Automation: Triggers automated load shedding during peak demand pricing events.
Installation and Safety Protocols
Wiring Best Practices
- Input Circuit Sizing: Use 10 AWG copper for AC inputs (NEC 310.16 derating at >30°C ambient).
- Grounding: Bond chassis to facility ground via 6 AWG cable (≤0.1 Ω impedance).
- Phase Balancing: Distribute 3-phase loads ≤5% imbalance to prevent neutral current overload.
Redundancy Configuration
Troubleshooting Common Failure Modes
Input Failover Failure
- Root Cause: Contaminated relay contacts or firmware glitches.
- Diagnosis: Check show power redundancy status and input voltage history.
- Resolution: Clean relays with DeoxIT D5 or update firmware to Cisco IOS XE 17.12.1a.
Outlet Overcurrent Tripping
- Contributing Factors: Inrush currents from SSD arrays or motorized actuators exceeding 10A.
- Mitigation: Install NTC thermistor inrush limiters on affected circuits.
Procurement and Vendor Considerations
For guaranteed compliance with Cisco’s Enhanced Limited Lifetime Warranty, “SKY-2F25-1URS=” is available via ITMall.sale, offering TAA-compliant supply chains and 24/7 critical replacement SLAs.
Engineer’s Perspective: Beyond Power Distribution—Operational Insurance
The SKY-2F25-1URS= isn’t merely a PDU; it’s a strategic safeguard for industries where power anomalies equate to existential risks. While its 8k–8k–8k–12k price tag may deter cost-conscious buyers, its value crystallizes in scenarios like semiconductor fabs, where a 10 ms outage can scrap $500k wafers. The unit’s dual-domain input capability bridges legacy DC plants and modern AC grids—crucial for utilities modernizing SCADA systems without forklift upgrades. However, in standard data centers, Cisco’s APC Smart-UPS solutions often suffice. The SKY series’ true niche is environments where “high availability” isn’t a buzzword but a contractual obligation. For others, it’s overkill—proving that in mission-critical tech, necessity isn’t universal but contextual.