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Defining the HCI-MRX64G2RE3= in Cisco’s Memory Portfo...
Overview and Primary Applications
The PWR-1.6KW-DC= is a 1600-watt direct current (DC) power supply engineered for Cisco’s enterprise and data center hardware, including the Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series switches and ASR 9000 routers. Designed for environments prioritizing power redundancy and energy efficiency, it operates at -48 VDC and supports N+1/N+N redundancy configurations. Cisco’s documentation positions this unit as critical for telecom central offices, industrial sites, and hyperscale data centers requiring 24/7 uptime.
Technical Specifications and Compliance
Key specifications from Cisco’s datasheets include:
- Input voltage range: -40.5 VDC to -72 VDC (±20% tolerance for unstable grids).
- Efficiency rating: 94% at 50% load, compliant with 80 Plus Platinum standards.
- Hot-swappable design: Enables replacement without shutting down the chassis.
- Operating temperature: -5°C to 50°C (derating required above 40°C).
The unit meets NEBS Level 3, ETSI EN 300 019, and IEC 60950 certifications, ensuring reliability in harsh conditions.
Core Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios
1. Telecom Network Resilience
In 5G MEC (Multi-Access Edge Computing) deployments, the PWR-1.6KW-DC= powers cell site routers like the Cisco NCS 540, providing:
- Battery backup integration: Seamless transition to DC plant during AC grid failures.
- Scalable power stacking: Supports up to 4 units per chassis for 6.4 kW total capacity.
2. Industrial IoT Deployments
Manufacturing sites leverage its ruggedized build for:
- Motor control systems: Stable power for Cisco IE3400 switches managing PLCs.
- Surge protection: Built-in 6 kV surge suppression for lightning-prone areas.
3. Green Data Centers
Hyperscalers use this PSU to reduce carbon footprints via:
- DC microgrid compatibility: Direct integration with solar/battery storage systems.
- Adaptive fan control: Reduces energy waste by adjusting cooling based on load (30% quieter than previous-gen models).
Addressing Common User Concerns
Q: Can the PWR-1.6KW-DC= operate in parallel with AC power supplies?
No. Cisco explicitly warns against mixing AC and DC PSUs in the same chassis due to incompatible bus architectures.
Q: What happens if input voltage drops below -40.5 VDC?
The unit enters hiccup mode—cycling on/off every 5 seconds—to protect internal components. Persistent under-voltage triggers a PSU_FAIL alarm in Cisco IOS-XE.
Q: Is modular cabling supported?
Yes. The PWR-1.6KW-DC= uses Cisco’s CPAK connector system for tool-less DC terminal block connections, compatible with 6 AWG to 10 AWG cables.
Installation and Maintenance Guidelines
- Grounding: Connect the chassis to a <5 Ω ground point using the PSU’s dual grounding lugs.
- Derating curves: At 50°C, maximum load drops to 1.2 kW (75% of rated capacity).
- Firmware sync: Ensure PSU firmware matches the chassis controller version to avoid PSU_MISMATCH errors.
A frequent oversight is ignoring derating in enclosed racks, which accelerates fan wear and reduces MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures).
Performance Benchmarks and Limitations
Testing reveals:
- Inrush current: 45 A for 5 ms during cold starts (requires circuit breakers rated ≥60 A).
- Transient response: Recovers from 50% to 100% load in <2 ms.
- Limitation: Cannot power Cisco Nexus 9500 modular switches due to incompatible form factor (requires PWR-3KW-DC).
Purchasing and Compatibility Notes
While Cisco has discontinued direct sales of the PWR-1.6KW-DC=, certified refurbished units with full lifecycle support are available through authorized partners. For guaranteed compatibility with Cisco Smart Licensing and warranty extensions, source from trusted suppliers like [“PWR-1.6KW-DC=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/).
Observations from Field Deployments
Having deployed this PSU in offshore oil rigs and urban data centers, its ability to handle voltage fluctuations in aging DC plants is unmatched. However, organizations often underestimate the infrastructure costs of transitioning from AC to DC power distribution. While the unit itself is robust, success hinges on proper DC busbar sizing and trained personnel familiar with IEC 62368-1 safety protocols. For enterprises committed to DC-centric architectures, the PWR-1.6KW-DC= remains a future-proof investment—provided they pair it with rigorous maintenance schedules and environmental monitoring tools.