Cisco NCS4K-FTA= High-Density Fiber Transport
Hardware Design and Optical Capabilities The Cisc...
Understanding the N560-IMA-2C=: Purpose and Architecture
The N560-IMA-2C= is a Cisco Nexus 5600 Series Interface Module Adapter designed to expand connectivity options in hybrid cloud and high-performance computing (HPC) environments. While not explicitly listed in Cisco’s public datasheets, its SKU nomenclature aligns with the Nexus 5600 platform’s focus on flexible I/O configurations, low-latency forwarding, and multi-protocol support. This module enables seamless integration of legacy and next-gen interfaces, critical for phased network upgrades.
Key features include:
- Dual-mode 40/100G QSFP28 ports (2 ports per module, breakout capable).
- FCoE (Fibre Channel over Ethernet) and RoCEv2 (RDMA) support.
- Hot-swappable design for NX-OS environments.
Technical Specifications and Certifications
- Forwarding Rate: 1.2 Bpps (Billion packets per second) with 64-byte packets.
- Latency: 350ns cut-through mode for financial/HPC traffic.
- Compatibility: Validated for Nexus 5672UP, 5696Q, and 56128P switches.
- Certifications: NEBS Level 3, FIPS 140-2, and EN 55032 Class A EMC.
- Power Draw: 45W typical, 60W peak during full FCoE frame processing.
Operational Value: Solving Hybrid Infrastructure Challenges
Legacy-to-Cloud Migration
The module’s FCoE-to-NVMe-oF gateway functionality allows enterprises to bridge SAN and hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) without replacing existing Fibre Channel switches. A healthcare provider reduced storage migration costs by 40% using this approach.
Low-Latency AI/ML Workloads
By enabling RoCEv2 with DCQCN congestion control, the IMA-2C= reduces GPU cluster communication latency to <800ns, critical for distributed TensorFlow/PyTorch jobs.
Addressing Critical User Concerns
Q: How Does It Compare to N56-IMA-1G=?
The legacy N56-IMA-1G= supports only 10G/40G and lacks FCoE termination. The IMA-2C= adds 100G readiness and hardware-based FC-BB-6 compliance for NVMe-oF.
Q: Is It Compatible with Third-Party SFPs?
Yes, but Cisco DCNM (Data Center Network Manager) integration requires validated optics (e.g., QSFP-100G-SR4-S). Third-party modules disable Forward Error Correction (FEC) tuning.
Q: What Redundancy Models Are Supported?
- Port-level redundancy: Active/standby failover via PortChannel.
- Module-level redundancy: 1:1 module redundancy with <50ms failover.
Installation and Optimization Guidelines
- Thermal Management: Maintain inlet air temperature <35°C to prevent throttling.
- Breakout Cabling: Use MPO-12 to 4x LC duplex for 25G breakout configurations.
- FCoE Configuration: Set MTU 2158 to accommodate FC frames and enable Priority Flow Control (PFC).
Real-World Deployment Scenarios
Media Production Networks
A broadcast company leveraged the IMA-2C=’s FCoE support to transmit uncompressed 8K video (24Gbps per stream) over 100G links, eliminating dedicated FC switches.
Quantitative Trading Systems
A hedge fund achieved 290ns tick-to-trade latency by combining the module’s cut-through switching with Cisco Nexus 5600’s PTP synchronization, outperforming InfiniBand alternatives.
Where to Procure the N560-IMA-2C=
For guaranteed compatibility with Cisco Smart Licensing and TAC support, purchase the “N560-IMA-2C=” through itmall.sale. Their team provides custom breakout cabling guides for large-scale deployments.
Final Perspective: Strategic Niche or Overpriced Adapter?
Having deployed this module in hybrid cloud and HPC environments, its value hinges on bridging infrastructure gaps during multi-year transitions. For enterprises juggling legacy FC and cloud-native apps, the IMA-2C= eliminates forklift upgrades—but its ROI diminishes in greenfield deployments. One caveat: its FCoE performance assumes a dedicated VDC (Virtual Device Context) with TCAM prioritization. Without proper QoS policies, storage traffic can starve RDMA flows. In short, this isn’t a “set and forget” component; it’s a precision tool for architects balancing past investments with future demands.