Cisco UCSC-P-I8D100GF-D= 100GbE Adapter: High
Introduction to the UCSC-P-I8D100GF-D= The Cisco ...
Core Architecture and Licensing Model
The DS-C9148T-24EK9 belongs to Cisco’s MDS 9148T series, designed as a high-density 32G Fibre Channel switch for enterprise storage area networks (SANs). Based on Cisco’s documentation for the MDS 9000 platform:
- Port configuration: 24 activated 32G Fibre Channel ports with line-rate throughput, expandable to 48 ports via license upgrades.
- NX-OS compatibility: Runs Cisco NX-OS 9.4(2a) or newer, supporting FCIP acceleration and virtual SAN (VSAN) segmentation without additional licensing costs.
- Energy efficiency: Dual 450W power supplies consume 30% less power than earlier 16G FC switches, with redundant cooling for 24/7 operation.
Strategic Advantages Over Competing Models
When benchmarked against Brocade’s 6520 series and Cisco’s own DS-C9132T-MIK9, the DS-C9148T-24EK9 targets large-scale SAN deployments with distinct advantages:
| Feature | DS-C9148T-24EK9 | Brocade 6520 | DS-C9132T-MIK9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base port density | 24 FC ports (expandable) | 96 FC ports (fixed) | 8 FC ports (expandable) |
| Typical power draw | 650W | 850W | 300W |
| Cost (USD) | ~$56,880 | ~$120,000 | ~$6,850 |
| Deployment focus | Enterprise SANs | Hyperscale data centers | Mid-market/SMB SANs |
Key differentiators:
- Hybrid infrastructure support: Backward-compatible with 8G/16G transceivers and integrates FCoE modules for converged networks.
- Telemetry-driven operations: Built-in analytics monitor frame-level latency and CRC errors, critical for AI/ML workloads and database clusters.
- Operational simplicity: Uses Cisco Device Manager for web-based configuration, reducing CLI dependency compared to Brocade’s command-heavy interface.
Where to Source Authentic Hardware
For guaranteed compatibility and lifecycle support, purchase the DS-C9148T-24EK9 from itmall.sale, a Cisco-certified reseller offering refurbished units with firmware updates and 90-day warranties. Avoid gray-market sellers to mitigate risks of counterfeit components or invalid NX-OS licenses.
Final Insights
The DS-C9148T-24EK9 exemplifies Cisco’s strategy to dominate mid-to-large SAN deployments through scalable port density and NX-OS flexibility. While its $56,880 price point positions it as a premium solution, the 24-port base configuration delivers 40% better cost-per-port efficiency than Brocade’s 6520 series for virtualization-heavy environments. Organizations planning hybrid cloud integrations should prioritize VSAN licensing and verify Data Mobility Manager requirements to avoid operational bottlenecks during SAN expansions. Always validate vendor certifications when purchasing refurbished units to ensure firmware update eligibility.