What is the primary function of the Cisco N55-M16P expansion module? +
The N55-M16P is a dedicated expansion module designed for Cisco Nexus 5500 Series platforms. It adds 16 ports of high-performance Gigabit Ethernet or 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, allowing network administrators to increase port density and expand uplink capacity within their existing data center infrastructure without requiring a complete chassis replacement.
Which Cisco chassis are compatible with the N55-M16P line card? +
This module is specifically engineered for use with the Cisco Nexus 5548P and 5548UP switch chassis. It slides directly into the expansion slot on the rear of the device, providing flexible configuration options to support various server connectivity requirements and storage networking demands in high-density rack environments.
Does the N55-M16P module support Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE)? +
Yes, this expansion module is designed to support FCoE, enabling the convergence of local area network and storage area network traffic over a unified Ethernet fabric. This capability is essential for organizations looking to simplify their cabling infrastructure while maintaining high-speed access to storage resources.
What type of physical interfaces does the N55-M16P provide? +
The N55-M16P features 16 SFP+ ports. This interface flexibility allows users to utilize either SFP+ copper twinax cables for short-reach connections within a rack or optical transceivers for longer distance requirements, ensuring the module adapts easily to diverse data center physical layer designs.
How does the N55-M16P impact the performance of the Nexus 5500 switch? +
By adding the N55-M16P, you offload traffic management to the dedicated hardware, effectively increasing the total switching throughput of your Nexus 5500 platform. It maintains low-latency performance characteristics consistent with the Nexus line, ensuring that high-bandwidth applications remain responsive during peak utilization periods.
Is specialized software licensing required to activate the N55-M16P ports? +
While the hardware is plug-and-play, specific features enabled through these ports—such as advanced storage protocols or specialized Layer 3 routing capabilities—may require corresponding Cisco NX-OS licenses. We recommend verifying your current feature set against your intended use case to ensure all necessary software permissions are active.
What is the recommended deployment scenario for this expansion module? +
The N55-M16P is ideal for data center environments where Top-of-Rack (ToR) port density needs to be optimized. It is frequently deployed in virtualization clusters that require additional high-speed downlinks to servers or as an expansion for dedicated storage interconnects, providing a cost-effective path for scaling network architecture.
How should I maintain the N55-M16P to ensure maximum reliability? +
Regular maintenance involves ensuring the module is firmly seated and that the airflow intake remains unobstructed. We advise monitoring port statistics via the Nexus CLI to detect potential SFP+ optical degradation early. Keeping the firmware updated to the latest Cisco NX-OS version will also ensure continued compatibility and stability.
How can I obtain a bulk quote for multiple N55-M16P units from BuyRouterSwitch.com? +
For large volume orders, simply add the desired quantity of N55-M16P modules to your inquiry list or contact our sales team directly. We specialize in accommodating enterprise-scale hardware procurement and will provide a customized quote tailored to your specific project requirements, ensuring you receive competitive pricing for your deployment.
Why should I choose BuyRouterSwitch.com for my Cisco N55-M16P procurement? +
BuyRouterSwitch.com is a trusted source for authentic networking hardware. We prioritize secure ordering processes and maintain a deep inventory of Cisco enterprise solutions. Our dedicated sales team provides expert assistance to ensure you receive the correct module for your specific switch configuration, streamlining your acquisition process.