Defining the A900-IMA-8CS1Z-CC=
The Cisco A900-IMA-8CS1Z-CC= is an 8-port 1G/10G SFP+ interface module designed for Cisco Catalyst 9000 Series modular switches, including the Catalyst 9500 and 9600 platforms. This hot-swappable module provides cost-effective, high-density connectivity for hybrid-speed networks, enabling seamless scaling without chassis replacement.
Core Technical Capabilities
- Port Flexibility: Supports 1G SFP and 10G SFP+ transceivers, allowing mixed-speed deployments (e.g., 1G for legacy devices, 10G for uplinks).
- Energy Efficiency: Cisco EnergyWise integration dynamically adjusts power per port based on traffic load, reducing operational costs by up to 18%.
- Forwarding Capacity: Delivers 160 Gbps aggregate throughput per module, optimized for latency-sensitive applications.
- Cloud-Ready: Pre-provisioned for Cisco SD-Access and DNA Center automation workflows.
Why Hybrid-Speed Modules Are Critical
Enterprises transitioning between 1G and 10G infrastructures face challenges like:
- Phased Upgrades: Avoiding forklift upgrades by supporting legacy and modern devices on the same module.
- Budget Constraints: Maximizing port density without overprovisioning underutilized 10G links.
- Thermal Management: Balancing heat output in densely populated chassis.
The A900-IMA-8CS1Z-CC= addresses these by offering per-port speed configurability and backward compatibility with Cisco’s SFP ecosystem.
Key Deployment Scenarios
- Campus Core Networks: Aggregating traffic from access-layer 1G switches to 10G spine layers.
- IoT Edge Gateways: Connecting low-bandwidth sensors and high-throughput video analytics systems.
- Retail Environments: Supporting legacy POS systems while preparing for future 10G upgrades.
Integration with Catalyst 9000 Series
The module leverages:
- Cisco UADP 3.0 ASIC: Enables MACsec-256 encryption and granular QoS policies.
- StackWise Virtual: Simplifies management by treating multiple chassis as a single logical switch.
- NetFlow-Lite: Provides visibility into application traffic without performance penalties.
Procurement via itmall.sale
For enterprises prioritizing scalability, the “A900-IMA-8CS1Z-CC=” is available through itmall.sale, which offers:
- Transceiver Bundles: Discounted kits with Cisco-certified 1G/10G SFPs.
- Lifecycle Support: Firmware updates aligned with Cisco’s software compatibility matrix.
- TCO Analysis: Reports comparing hybrid modules vs. dedicated 10G alternatives.
Final Perspective: The Art of Transitional Design
In an era of perpetual technological transition, the A900-IMA-8CS1Z-CC= exemplifies pragmatic engineering. Having managed networks where rushed 10G migrations led to stranded assets, I’ve learned that flexibility isn’t a compromise—it’s strategic foresight. For Catalyst 9000 users, this module isn’t just about ports; it’s about future-proofing investments in a world where yesterday’s “legacy” is tomorrow’s fallback.