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Q
What are Cisco 6500 Switch Modules?
A
Cisco 6500 Switch Modules are hot-swappable line cards, supervisor engines, and service modules designed to enhance performance, scalability, and features in the Cisco Catalyst 6500 series chassis.
Q
Which line cards are compatible with Cisco 6500 Switch Modules?
A
Compatible line cards include the WS-X6K series (Gigabit Ethernet), WS-X6748-GE-TX (48-port Fast Ethernet), and specialized service modules, all of which must match the chassis supervisor engine architecture.
Q
How do I install a Cisco 6500 Switch Module?
A
Power down the chassis, slide the module into an empty slot until it clicks, secure captive screws, then power up; the module is automatically detected and initialized by the supervisor engine.
Q
What are the differences between Supervisor Engine 32 and Supervisor Engine 720?
A
Supervisor Engine 32 supports up to 48 Gbps per slot with limited feature sets, while Supervisor Engine 720 offers 720 Gbps backplane bandwidth, Cisco IOS XE, and advanced services like Application Visibility and Control.
Q
How do I upgrade a Cisco 6500 Switch Module firmware?
A
Use the Cisco IOS command-line interface to upload the new IOS image via TFTP/FTP, set the boot variable, and reload the module; ensure compatibility with the chassis supervisor engine.
Q
What power supplies are required for Cisco 6500 Switch Modules?
A
Cisco 6500 chassis require two redundant AC or DC power supplies sized to support the total module load; typical options are 1500W AC, 3000W AC, or 2700W DC models.
Q
Can Cisco 6500 Switch Modules deliver Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
A
Yes, with the WS-X6748-GE-TX-PWR module and an appropriate high-wattage power supply, the Cisco 6500 can deliver up to 30W per port for PoE+ devices.
Q
What throughput can I expect from Cisco 6500 Switch Modules?
A
Throughput depends on the supervisor engine and line card combination; Supervisor Engine 720 with WS-X6748-GE-TX delivers up to 720 Gbps total switching capacity.
Q
How is high availability achieved with Cisco 6500 Switch Modules?
A
High availability is provided by dual supervisor engines in redundant mode, stateful switchover, redundant fans, and power supplies to ensure non-stop forwarding and minimal downtime.
Q
What software licenses are required for advanced features?
A
Licenses such as Advantage or Premium are required on Supervisor Engines to enable features like MPLS, advanced security, and Cisco Application Control Engine (ACE).
Q
How do I monitor Cisco 6500 Switch Module performance?
A
Use Cisco Prime Infrastructure or SNMP via the Embedded Event Manager (EEM) to monitor interface statistics, CPU/memory utilization, and environmental sensors in real time.
Q
Are Cisco 6500 Switch Modules still supported?
A
Most Cisco Catalyst 6500 modules are in extended support; you should review Cisco’s End-of-Life announcements and consider migrating to modern Catalyst 9000 series for long-term support.
Q
What cooling requirements exist for Cisco 6500 modules?
A
Maintain a data center temperature between 10°C and 35°C with front-to-back airflow; ensure that all fans are operational and intake vents are unobstructed.
Q
How do I troubleshoot module port errors on a Cisco 6500?
A
Use show interfaces and show logging to identify errors or flaps, verify correct cabling, update IOS, and if necessary, reseat or replace the affected module.
Q
Where can I purchase genuine Cisco 6500 Switch Modules?
A
Buy directly from Cisco’s online store or authorized Cisco partners to ensure genuine hardware, access to support, and valid warranties.
Q
What are the key benefits of Cisco 6500 Switch Modules?
A
Key benefits include modular scalability, high-density port configurations, advanced security, service integration, and proven reliability in enterprise networks.
