What is CP-8851-3PCC-K9=? Port Density, Power Efficiency, and Deployment Insights for Cisco Networks

Overview of the CP-8851-3PCC-K9= Module

The ​​CP-8851-3PCC-K9=​​ is a Cisco Catalyst 8800 Series ​​51-port Gigabit Ethernet module​​ optimized for high-density Power over Ethernet (PoE+) deployments. Designed for enterprise and campus environments, this module integrates ​​Cisco’s Converged Access​​ technology, enabling simultaneous data, power, and policy enforcement for devices like wireless access points, IoT sensors, and VoIP systems.

Key Technical Specifications

• ​​Port Configuration​​: 51 x 10/100/1000BASE-T ports with ​​PoE+ (30W per port)​​, plus 4 x 10G SFP+ uplinks.
• ​​Total PoE Budget​​: ​​1,530W​​ across all ports, dynamically allocated via ​​Cisco Intelligent Power Management (IPM)​​.
• ​​Compatibility​​: Requires ​​Catalyst 9400/9500 Series​​ switches with ​​Network Advantage licensing​​ and IOS-XE 17.9+.
• ​​Cooling Design​​: Side-to-side airflow, compatible with enterprise rack layouts.

Primary Deployment Scenarios

This module targets environments demanding ​​high port density and power efficiency​​:

• ​​Large Campuses​​: Supports dense Wi-Fi 6E deployments, IoT clusters, and digital signage.
• ​​Healthcare Facilities​​: Powers and connects medical devices, patient monitors, and nurse call systems with QoS prioritization.
• ​​Retail Warehouses​​: Manages inventory scanners, security cameras, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) under a unified policy.

Addressing Critical User Questions

“Can the CP-8851-3PCC-K9= operate without PoE?”

Yes. Non-PoE devices function normally, and unused power is redistributed to active ports.

“What’s the maximum cable length for PoE+ delivery?”

With ​​Cat6a cabling​​, it delivers full PoE+ at ​​100 meters​​. For Cat5e, limit runs to ​​55 meters​​ to avoid voltage drop.

“Is it backward-compatible with Catalyst 6800 chassis?”

No. This module is exclusive to ​​Catalyst 9400/9500 Series​​ switches. Legacy platforms require separate PoE injectors.

Sourcing and Configuration Guidance

For guaranteed compatibility and warranty coverage, procure from authorized partners. The CP-8851-3PCC-K9= is available here, including PoE calculators and stackwise configuration templates.

Final Perspective

The CP-8851-3PCC-K9= is a powerhouse for organizations scaling PoE-dependent infrastructure. While its ​​1,530W power budget​​ alleviates device sprawl, ensure upstream electrical circuits and cooling systems are rated for sustained loads. In my experience, pairing this module with Cisco’s DNA Center simplifies policy enforcement—but always validate licensing tiers and switch SKUs to avoid deployment roadblocks.