HCI-MRX16G1RE1=: What Is It and How Does It Enhance Cisco Catalyst 9300 Deployments?

​​Understanding the HCI-MRX16G1RE1= Module​​

The ​​HCI-MRX16G1RE1=​​ is a Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series 16-port Gigabit Ethernet modular expansion module designed for high-density enterprise switching. Unlike generic network modules, this hardware targets environments requiring ​​PoE+ (Power over Ethernet Plus)​​ support, scalability, and backward compatibility with Cisco’s modular architecture.

​​Technical Specifications and Key Features​​

​​Port Configuration​​:

• 16 x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 ports
• ​​PoE+ Budget​​: Supports up to 30W per port (IEEE 802.3at)
• ​​Total System PoE Capacity​​: 640W when paired with Catalyst 9300 chassis (C9300-48UXM model)

​​Performance Metrics​​:

• ​​Forwarding Rate​​: 240 Mpps (million packets per second)
• ​​Switching Capacity​​: 160 Gbps (full duplex)
• ​​Latency​​: <5 μs for 64-byte packets

​​Compatibility​​:

• Works exclusively with Catalyst 9300 Series switches (C9300L, C9300, C9300X models)
• Requires Cisco IOS XE 16.12.1 or later for full feature support

​​Why Enterprises Choose HCI-MRX16G1RE1= Over Competing Modules​​

​​1. Power Efficiency for IoT Deployments​​
The module’s PoE+ capabilities make it ideal for IoT-heavy environments like smart buildings or industrial automation. For example, it can simultaneously power ​​IP cameras, Wi-Fi 6 APs, and VoIP phones​​ without requiring external power injectors.

​​2. Scalability Without Overprovisioning​​
Unlike fixed-configuration switches, the HCI-MRX16G1RE1= allows incremental expansion. A single Catalyst 9300 chassis supports up to 8 modules, enabling ​​128 additional Gigabit Ethernet ports​​ per switch stack.

​​3. Unified Management with DNA Center​​
Cisco’s Digital Network Architecture (DNA Center) provides centralized visibility into module health, PoE usage, and traffic patterns. Administrators can automate firmware updates and enforce QoS policies across all connected ports.

​​Common Deployment Scenarios​​

​​Retail Branch Offices​​:

• Connect POS systems, digital signage, and inventory scanners
• ​​Bandwidth Reservation​​: Prioritize transaction traffic over guest Wi-Fi

​​Healthcare Networks​​:

• Power medical IoT devices (patient monitors, infusion pumps)
• Segment clinical traffic using TrustSec micro-segmentation

​​Education Campuses​​:

• Deploy in lecture halls for high-density student device connectivity
• Use EnergyWise to reduce power consumption during off-peak hours

​​Addressing Critical User Concerns​​

​​Q: Does HCI-MRX16G1RE1= support MultiGigabit (2.5G/5G) speeds?​​
A: No—this module is limited to 1Gbps per port. For MultiGig needs, consider Cisco’s C9300-NM-8X or C9300-NM-4M modules.

​​Q: Can I mix this module with other expansion units in one chassis?​​
A: Yes. Catalyst 9300 supports heterogeneous module configurations, but ensure consistent IOS XE versions.

​​Q: What redundancy features are available?​​
A: The module supports ​​Cisco StackWise-480​​ for hitless failover and ISSU (In-Service Software Upgrade).

​​Optimizing HCI-MRX16G1RE1= Performance​​

​​1. Thermal Management Best Practices​​

• Maintain ambient temperature below 104°F (40°C)
• Avoid blocking chassis airflow vents when mounting modules

​​2. PoE Load Balancing​​
Use Cisco’s ​​Power Manager​​ tool to:

• Monitor real-time power consumption
• Automatically shut down non-critical ports during power shortages

​​3. Security Hardening​​

• Enable MACsec encryption on sensitive ports
• Disable unused ports via CLI: interface range gi1/0/1-16 → shutdown

​​Where to Source Genuine Modules​​

For verified compatibility and warranty coverage, purchase HCI-MRX16G1RE1= from authorized Cisco partners. Click here to explore available inventory and technical documentation.

​​Final Perspective: Balancing Cost and Future-Proofing​​

While the HCI-MRX16G1RE1= excels in PoE-driven environments, enterprises planning for Wi-Fi 6E or 10G uplinks should evaluate newer Cisco modules. However, for organizations with existing Catalyst 9300 investments and legacy 1G device fleets, this module remains a cost-effective solution—provided network architects implement strict lifecycle management to phase it out before 2028, when Cisco plans to end software updates for this hardware family.