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What Is the DS-C9710-RMK=?
The Cisco DS-C9710-RMK= is a rack-mount installation kit specifically designed for the Cisco MDS 9710 Multilayer Director, a flagship storage area network (SAN) platform. This kit provides the necessary hardware to securely mount the 10-slot chassis in standard 19-inch racks, ensuring proper airflow alignment and structural stability for mission-critical data center deployments. Unlike generic mounting solutions, the RMK= variant adheres to Cisco’s strict thermal and weight distribution guidelines, preventing performance degradation in hyperscale environments.
Key Components and Compatibility
- Hardware Included:
- Adjustable front and rear mounting brackets (supports 4-post racks with depths between 600mm–1,200mm)
- M6 and 12-24 UNC threaded screws for diverse rack standards
- Cable management arms compatible with 3K AC/DC power shelf configurations
- Weight Capacity: Supports the MDS 9710’s maximum operational weight of 127 kg (280 lbs) with 8 fully populated I/O modules.
- Thermal Optimization: Aligns with Cisco’s front-to-back airflow design, maintaining ≤2°C temperature variance across fabric modules.
DS-C9710-RMK= vs. Third-Party Rack Solutions: Critical Differences
| Feature | DS-C9710-RMK= | Generic Rack Kits |
|---|---|---|
| Airflow Compliance | Guaranteed alignment with MDS 9710’s cooling system | Risk of hot-spot formation due to improper vent spacing |
| Vibration Damping | ISO 9001-certified dampers for seismic zones | Basic rubber padding with limited shock absorption |
| Tool-Free Installation | Integrated quick-release levers | Requires separate torque wrenches |
| Warranty Coverage | Full Cisco SmartNet eligibility | Voided chassis warranty if used |
Operational Risks of Non-Certified Kits:
- Thermal Violations: Improper mounting may increase fabric module temperatures by 5°C–8°C, reducing component lifespan by 30%.
- Physical Damage: Substandard brackets risk chassis sagging (>3mm deflection), potentially dislodging 32G FC line cards during maintenance.
Why Deploy DS-C9710-RMK= in Enterprise SANs?
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets ANSI/EIA-310-D and ISO/IEC 60297-3-109 standards for data center rack safety.
- Future-Proof Scalability: Accommodates chassis expansions like DS-C9710-FD-MD= (high-density fabric modules) without reconfiguration.
- Cost Efficiency: Certified refurbished kits available at itmall.sale reduce deployment costs by 50%–65% versus new purchases.
Final Recommendations
The DS-C9710-RMK= remains non-negotiable for enterprises prioritizing SAN uptime and hardware longevity. While third-party alternatives may appear cost-effective, their hidden risks in thermal management and warranty compliance outweigh short-term savings. For organizations migrating from legacy MDS 9500 directors, ensure rack depth compatibility (≥900mm) to avoid airflow obstruction. Always validate torque specifications (8–10 Nm for M6 screws) during installation to prevent chassis misalignment in vibration-prone environments.