Overview of the A9K-AC-PEM-V2

The Cisco A9K-AC-PEM-V2 is a ​​high-efficiency AC power entry module​​ designed for the Cisco ASR 9000 Series routers, serving as the primary power distribution unit for chassis configurations requiring ​​3,000W–6,000W input capacity​​. This module enables scalable power redundancy and load balancing, making it critical for service provider networks and large-scale data center deployments.

Technical Specifications and Key Features

• ​​Input Compatibility​​: Supports ​​200–240V AC​​ at 50/60Hz, with ​​dual 30A AC feeds​​ for redundant configurations.
• ​​Output Capacity​​: Delivers ​​3,000W per module​​ with N+1 redundancy support, allowing parallel operation across multiple PEMs.
• ​​Modular Design​​: Hot-swappable architecture with front-to-back airflow compatibility for ASR 9904/9910/9922 chassis.
• ​​Safety Certifications​​: UL 60950-1 and EN 60950-1 compliant, with integrated circuit breakers for overcurrent protection.

Addressing Critical User Concerns

​​Q: Does this module support mixed AC/DC power configurations?​​
No. The A9K-AC-PEM-V2 is ​​AC-exclusive​​ and incompatible with DC power shelves like the A9K-DC-PEM. For hybrid environments, ASR 9000 chassis require separate DC PEMs.

​​Q: How does redundancy work during power feed failures?​​
In N+1 setups, the PEM automatically redistributes loads within ​​<500ms​​ using Cisco’s Power Priority Algorithm, ensuring uninterrupted operation for critical line cards.

Deployment Scenarios

• ​​5G Core Aggregation​​: Supports energy-intensive 100G/400G line cards like the A9K-8X100GE-FC in high-density metro networks.
• ​​Disaster Recovery Clusters​​: Enables cross-chassis power redundancy when paired with ASR 9000’s ISSU (In-Service Software Upgrade) capabilities.
• ​​Cloud Gateway Hubs​​: Scales power delivery for SDN-enabled architectures requiring dynamic load adjustments.

Procurement and Compatibility Notes

For operators modernizing legacy ASR 9000 deployments, the “A9K-AC-PEM-V2=” is available here. Validate chassis airflow requirements (front-to-back vs. back-to-front) and ensure IOS XR 7.7.1+ for intelligent power management features like Predictive Power Oversubscription.

Final Perspective: Efficiency vs. Future-Proofing Tradeoffs

While the A9K-AC-PEM-V2 remains a workhorse for existing ASR 9000 infrastructures, its ​​92% efficiency rating​​ lags behind newer 94%-efficient V3 models. However, its true value lies in ​​backward compatibility​​ – operators with pre-2022 ASR 9904 chassis can extend hardware lifecycles without costly shelf replacements. The module’s limitation to 6kW total output makes it less suitable for 800G-era deployments but ideal for transitional architectures balancing 100G density and legacy 10G interfaces.