Cisco UCSX-SD16TKA3XEPD= Enterprise Storage D
Positioning the UCSX-SD16TKA3XEPD= in Cisco’s D...
What Architectural Innovations Define the DS-C9396V-48IK9=?
The Cisco DS-C9396V-48IK9= is a 48-port 32G Fibre Channel switch designed for mission-critical storage networks requiring ultra-low latency and NVMe-oF readiness. Part of Cisco’s MDS 9396V series, it leverages NX-OS software for granular traffic prioritization and In-Service Software Upgrade (ISSU) capabilities to eliminate downtime during firmware updates. Its 2U form factor supports On-Demand port activation licensing, enabling seamless scaling from 48 to 96 ports—critical for enterprises managing unpredictable storage growth. Backward compatibility with 2/4/8/16G devices ensures smooth integration into hybrid SAN environments.
How Does It Outperform Legacy Cisco MDS Models?
- Port Flexibility: Base 48 activated ports vs. fixed 48-port configurations in older models like the MDS 9148S.
- Buffer Credit Allocation: 2,400+ credits per port—double the capacity of MDS 9396S series—preventing congestion during long-distance replication.
- Energy Efficiency: 80 PLUS Platinum-certified power supplies reduce operational costs by 15% compared to Gold-rated predecessors.
- Security: Hardware-accelerated encryption for FCP and NVMe-oF traffic without throughput degradation.
A technical comparison highlights transformative upgrades:
| Feature | DS-C9396V-48IK9= | MDS 9148S (2015 Model) |
|---|---|---|
| Max Ports | 96 (license-activated) | 48 (fixed) |
| Native Speed | 32G Fibre Channel | 16G Fibre Channel |
| Buffer Credits/Port | 50 | 25 |
| VSAN Capacity | 1,024 | 512 |
Where to Source Certified DS-C9396V-48IK9= Units?
For guaranteed compatibility and warranty coverage, ITMALL’s Cisco Store provides:
- New units with Cisco Smart Net 24/7 technical support.
- Refurbished models validated through Cisco’s Certified Refurbished Program.
- Cisco-certified 32G SFP+ transceivers ensuring optimal signal integrity.
The DS-C9396V-48IK9= addresses critical challenges like microsecond-level latency spikes through hardware-based slow-drain detection and Fabric Manager QoS for mission-critical traffic prioritization. While third-party alternatives exist, only Cisco-certified configurations fully support Inter-VSAN Routing (IVR) and 64G/128G Fibre Channel upgrade paths. Its dual-redundant architecture outperforms Brocade’s comparable models in mixed-protocol environments, particularly when handling concurrent FC-NVMe and SCSI workloads. For organizations prioritizing zero-touch provisioning via Cisco Prime DCNM and predictable TCO through energy-efficient operations, this switch sets a new standard in adaptive SAN infrastructure.