Question 1

What modules and interface cards are available for Cisco 8000 Series Routers?

Accepted Answer

Cisco 8000 Series offers high-density 400Gb line cards, 100Gb/200Gb interface modules, multicore service modules, optical interface cards, and dedicated power modules compatible with all Cisco 8000 platforms.

Question 2

How do I install a module in a Cisco 8000 Series router?

Accepted Answer

To install a module, power down the router, insert the module into an empty slot until it clicks, secure the captive screws, then power up and confirm detection via the CLI show platform command.

Question 3

Are Cisco 8000 Series modules hot-swappable?

Accepted Answer

Most Cisco 8000 line cards and optical interface modules support hot-swap under Cisco IOS XR, while service and power modules require a graceful shutdown for safe replacement.

Question 4

What throughput options do Cisco 8000 line cards offer?

Accepted Answer

Cisco 8000 Series line cards deliver 100Gb, 200Gb, and 400Gb per slot with port counts ranging from 2×400Gb QSFP-DD to 8×100Gb QSFP28, meeting diverse bandwidth requirements.

Question 5

How do I choose the correct line card for my bandwidth requirements?

Accepted Answer

Select a line card based on aggregate capacity, port density, and interface type: use 400Gb cards for ultra-high throughput, 100/200Gb cards for mid-range demands, and optics compatibility.

Question 6

How do I upgrade or replace a module in Cisco 8000 Series?

Accepted Answer

Verify software and hardware compatibility, save the current configuration, power down if required, swap the module, power up, then validate with show platform and reload the config if needed.

Question 7

What power supply modules are supported on Cisco 8000 Series?

Accepted Answer

Cisco 8000 routers support redundant AC and DC power modules—3kW AC, 4kW AC, and -48V DC—with hot-swap capability and N+1 redundancy for high availability.

Question 8

How do I verify module compatibility before installation?

Accepted Answer

Use Cisco Feature Navigator or consult the hardware installation guide to cross-reference the router chassis model, software version, and module part numbers for full compatibility.

Question 9

Can I mix different module types in a single Cisco 8000 router?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Cisco 8000 Series chassis support mixed line cards and service modules within power and cooling limits, provided overall power and thermal budgets are not exceeded.

Question 10

What is the process for optical transceiver compatibility with Cisco 8000 Series?

Accepted Answer

Ensure transceivers are Cisco-qualified optics, match the line card’s port type (QSFP28, QSFP56, QSFP-DD), and check firmware support via the Cisco compatibility matrix.

Question 11

Do Cisco 8000 Series modules support advanced QoS features?

Accepted Answer

Yes, modules running Cisco IOS XR provide hardware-accelerated QoS with traffic policing, shaping, hierarchical scheduling, and class-based marking on all interface cards.

Question 12

How do I troubleshoot module discovery issues on Cisco 8000 Series?

Accepted Answer

Check slot LEDs, verify seating and power, run show platform hardware slot diagnostics, inspect syslog for errors, and confirm firmware levels match the router image.

Question 13

What licensing is required for modules on Cisco 8000 Series?

Accepted Answer

Most interface and line card features are covered under the Cisco IOS XR software license. Advanced features like segment routing or security services may require additional feature licenses.

Question 14

What cooling requirements exist for Cisco 8000 line cards?

Accepted Answer

Cisco 8000 routers use front-to-back airflow with hot-swap fans; ensure proper intake/output clearance, verify fan tray health, and maintain ambient temperatures per the installation guide.

Question 15

How do I update firmware on Cisco 8000 modules?

Accepted Answer

Use the Cisco IOS XR image install commands or Cisco Prime Infrastructure to stage and activate firmware on line cards and service modules without disrupting traffic (in-service upgrade).

Question 16

What warranty and support are available for Cisco 8000 Series modules?

Accepted Answer

Cisco provides a limited lifetime hardware warranty, software updates for the licensed IOS XR release, and optional Smart Net Total Care for 24×7 support, RMA services, and advanced replacement.

Router Modules Cisco 8000 Series

8800-RP (CISCO 8800 ROUTE PROC)

8808-FC (Cisco 8808 Fabric Card)

8812-FC (Cisco 8812 Fabric Card)

8818-FC (Cisco 8818 Fabric Card)

8800-LC-48H (Cisco 8800 48x100 GbE QSFP28 Line Card)

8800-LC-36FH (Cisco 8800 36x400 GbE QSFP56-DD Line Card)

Questions & Answers

What modules and interface cards are available for Cisco 8000 Series Routers?

How do I install a module in a Cisco 8000 Series router?

Are Cisco 8000 Series modules hot-swappable?

What throughput options do Cisco 8000 line cards offer?