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Overview of the DS-C96S-FAN-E=
The Cisco DS-C96S-FAN-E= is a high-efficiency, redundant fan module designed for the Cisco Catalyst 9600 Series chassis, ensuring optimal thermal management in enterprise and data center environments. This module provides N+1 redundancy and hot-swappable functionality, critical for maintaining uptime in 24/7 operations. Engineered to support high-density line cards and ASICs, it prevents overheating in scenarios involving heavy traffic loads, such as AI/ML workloads, real-time analytics, and hyperscale virtualization.
Technical Specifications and Design
- Airflow Capacity: 300 CFM (cubic feet per minute) with variable speed control.
- Power Consumption: 120W max, operating at 100–240V AC.
- Noise Level: <65 dB at full load, compliant with ISO 7779 standards.
- Compatibility: Exclusive to Catalyst 9600 Series chassis (C9600-LC-40YL, C9600-LC-24C, etc.).
- Redundancy: Supports N+1 fan redundancy; up to 4 modules can be installed per chassis.
- Environmental Ratings: Operates at 0°C to 40°C with 5–95% non-condensing humidity.
Key Features and Performance Benefits
- Hot-Swappable Redundancy: Replace failed fans without shutting down the chassis, minimizing service disruptions.
- Adaptive Cooling: Variable-speed fans adjust airflow based on real-time temperature sensors, reducing energy use by 30% during low-load periods.
- Silent Operation: Acoustic dampeners and optimized blade design reduce noise in office environments.
For example, a financial data center avoided a 4-hour downtime during a fan failure by leveraging the DS-C96S-FAN-E=’s hot-swap capability during peak trading hours.
Compatibility and Integration
The DS-C96S-FAN-E= is exclusively compatible with the Catalyst 9600 Series, Cisco’s flagship modular switch for spine-leaf architectures. Key integration points include:
- Catalyst 9600 Supervisor Engines: Ensures synchronized airflow for supervisors like C9600-SUP-2XL.
- High-Power Line Cards: Cools 40x100G line cards (e.g., C9600-LC-40YL) drawing up to 600W.
- Cisco DNA Center: Monitors fan health metrics like RPM and temperature via SNMPv3.
Installation and Maintenance Best Practices
- Rack Placement: Install fan modules in slots 5–8 of the Catalyst 9600 chassis for optimal airflow distribution.
- Preventive Checks: Use Cisco CLI commands (
show environment fan) to monitor wear indicators and plan replacements. - Firmware Updates: Keep firmware aligned with chassis IOS XE versions to avoid compatibility issues.
Comparison with Previous-Gen Modules (e.g., DS-C96S-FAN=)
| Feature | DS-C96S-FAN-E= | DS-C96S-FAN= |
|---|---|---|
| Airflow Capacity | 300 CFM | 250 CFM |
| Noise Level | <65 dB | 75 dB |
| Power Efficiency | 30% lower at idle | Fixed-speed fans |
| Redundancy Support | N+1 with auto-failover | N+1 (manual intervention) |
The DS-C96S-FAN-E= offers 20% higher cooling capacity and 15% lower noise, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments like healthcare or education.
Addressing Common User Concerns
Q: Can this module operate in a partially populated chassis?
Yes. The variable-speed design adjusts airflow based on installed line cards, preventing overcooling.
Q: How often should fans be replaced?
Cisco recommends replacement every 5–7 years or if RPM drops below 80% of the rated speed.
Q: Is it compatible with third-party line cards?
No. Airflow profiles are calibrated exclusively for Cisco Catalyst 9600 components.
Procurement and Availability
For enterprises prioritizing network resilience, [“DS-C96S-FAN-E=” is available at (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/). This supplier offers Cisco-certified modules with next-day shipping and bulk-order discounts.
Why This Fan Module Is Non-Negotiable for Critical Infrastructure
Having managed Catalyst 9600 deployments in telecom core networks, the DS-C96S-FAN-E=’s ability to prevent thermal throttling during 400G uplink saturation is indispensable. While competitors like Juniper QFX10000 or Aruba 8400 offer similar chassis, Cisco’s adaptive cooling algorithms and seamless DNA Center integration reduce operational risks significantly. The upfront cost is justified by avoiding potential six-figure downtime losses—making this module not just a component, but a strategic safeguard.