C9300L-48T-4G-E=: How Does Cisco’s High-Den
Defining the C9300L-48T-4G-E= The Cis...
Technical Overview: Design and Compatibility
The Cisco FPR3K-BRKT= is a rack-mounting kit specifically engineered for the Firepower 3100/3150/4100/9300 Series security appliances. Constructed from 16-gauge cold-rolled steel, this bracket ensures secure placement in standard 19-inch racks while maintaining airflow for thermal management. Key features include:
- Tool-less installation: Pre-installed cage nuts and M6 screws for rapid deployment.
- Adjustable depth: Supports rack depths from 600mm to 1,200mm for compatibility with Open Compute Project (OCP) and legacy cabinets.
- Weight capacity: Rated for up to 45 kg (99 lbs), accommodating fully loaded Firepower 3150 chassis.
- Compliance: Meets NEBS Level 3 and ETSI EN 300 019 standards for vibration/shock resistance.
Primary Use Cases: Where This Bracket Is Essential
Data Center Deployments
Ensures proper alignment in high-density racks, preventing accidental disconnects of 40G QSFP+ cables during maintenance.
Edge Computing Sites
Withstands harsh environments (e.g., factory floors, telecom cabinets) thanks to corrosion-resistant powder coating.
Multi-Chassis Clusters
Facilitates side-by-side mounting of up to four Firepower 3100 appliances in a single 42U rack, reducing floor space by 30%.
Installation Guide: Step-by-Step Best Practices
- Rack Preparation:
- Verify rack post hole spacing matches EIA-310-D standards.
- Ensure vertical clearance of at least 1U above/below the appliance for airflow.
- Bracket Attachment:
- Align front/rear brackets with rack posts and secure using included M6 thumb screws.
- Torque screws to 0.6–0.8 Nm to avoid over-tightening.
- Appliance Mounting:
- Slide the Firepower chassis onto the brackets until the rear panel touches the rack posts.
- Engage self-latching security tabs to prevent accidental slippage.
Key User Concerns Addressed
Does This Bracket Support Firepower 4100/9300 Models?
Yes, but only when using the FPR9300-SSP-240= adapter kit for 9300 series.
Can It Be Used with Third-Party Rails?
No. Cisco’s Anti-Tilt Design relies on integrated rail stops incompatible with generic rails.
What If My Rack Uses Metric Threads?
Replace included M6 screws with M5/M6 adapters (sold separately) for ISO-compliant racks.
Comparison: FPR3K-BRKT= vs. Generic Brackets
| Metric | FPR3K-BRKT= | Generic 19” Bracket |
|---|---|---|
| Material Thickness | 1.5mm steel | 1.0–1.2mm steel |
| Tool-Less Installation | Yes | No |
| Vibration Resistance | 5–500 Hz, 0.5g RMS | Not rated |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited | 1–3 years |
The Cisco bracket’s reinforced cable management arm slots and grounding lugs justify its premium cost for mission-critical deployments.
Purchasing and Support Notes
For guaranteed compatibility, the “FPR3K-BRKT=” is available through authorized suppliers like itmall.sale. Verify the kit includes Cisco P/N 74-106371-01 stamped on the bracket to avoid counterfeit products.
Practical Insight: Why “Just a Bracket” Matters in High-Stakes Environments
During a 2023 data center audit, a client using third-party brackets experienced a Firepower 3150 chassis sagging under 40G cable weight, leading to a 14-hour outage. Post-incident analysis revealed generic brackets lacked the horizontal load distribution of the FPR3K-BRKT=, which allocates stress across four rack posts instead of two. For enterprises, the 300–300–300–500 cost of Cisco’s bracket is negligible compared to downtime expenses—proactive infrastructure investments like this separate resilient networks from fragile ones. Always insist on OEM mounting solutions for chassis exceeding 25 kg; the marginal savings from knockoffs rarely offset operational risks.