Q
What Cisco Nexus 3000 switch modules and cards are available?
A
Cisco Nexus 3000 Series supports a variety of fixed and modular interface cards offering 10/25/40/100 GbE ports, including N3K-C3548PQ-10GX, N3K-C3280PQ-10GX, N3K-C3132Q-10G and expansion modules for QSFP+ and QSFP28 transceivers.
Q
How do I select the right Nexus 3000 module for my network?
A
Choose a module based on required port speed, port density, uplink capacity and power budget; verify compatibility with your Nexus 3000 model using Cisco’s compatibility matrix.
Q
Are Nexus 3000 switch modules hot-swappable?
A
Yes. All Cisco Nexus 3000 modules and interface cards are hot-swappable, enabling insertion or removal without powering down the switch.
Q
What port speeds and densities do Nexus 3000 cards support?
A
Nexus 3000 modules support 1/10/25 GbE on SFP/SFP+ ports, 40 GbE on QSFP+ ports and 100 GbE on QSFP28 ports, with densities up to 48×10 GbE or 32×100 GbE per module.
Q
Can I mix different interface cards in a Nexus 3000 chassis?
A
Yes. You can combine cards of different speeds and port counts as long as they are supported in the same Nexus 3000 platform and slot type.
Q
How do I install a Cisco Nexus 3000 switch module?
A
Power off the switch (if required), loosen the ejector handles, slide the module into the slot until it clicks, secure the ejector levers and power on; verify installation with the show module command.
Q
Which SFP/SFP+/QSFP transceivers are compatible with Nexus 3000?
A
Cisco-approved transceivers include SFP-10G-SR, SFP-10G-LR, QSFP-40G-SR4, QSFP-40G-LR4, QSFP-100G-SR4 and QSFP-100G-LR4; always refer to the Cisco Transceiver Module Compatibility Matrix.
Q
How do I upgrade firmware on a Nexus 3000 interface card?
A
Use NX-OS CLI commands copy running-config tftp: and install all impact partitions, or employ Cisco Prime Infrastructure or NX-API to automate image distribution and activation.
Q
What is the maximum number of modules supported in a Nexus 3000 chassis?
A
Nexus 3000 Series are fixed-form-factor switches and do not support line-card chassis expansion; port modules are built-in and cannot exceed the factory-configured capacity.
Q
How can I check the health status of installed modules?
A
Run show module or show environment commands in NX-OS CLI to display module presence, operational status, temperature and power consumption.
Q
Do Nexus 3000 modules support redundant power and fans?
A
Yes. Nexus 3000 switches feature dual redundant, hot-swappable power supplies and fans that maintain module operation during individual component failure.
Q
What warranty and support options are available for Nexus 3000 cards?
A
All Cisco Nexus 3000 modules include a limited lifetime hardware warranty and are eligible for Cisco SMARTnet or Cisco Solution Support for global technical assistance and software updates.
Q
Can I use third-party modules with the Nexus 3000 Series?
A
Cisco only guarantees full compatibility and support for Cisco-branded modules; third-party transceivers may work but can lead to degraded performance or voided warranties.
Q
How do I troubleshoot module connectivity issues on Nexus 3000?
A
Verify cable and transceiver compatibility, inspect port LEDs, use show interface status and show logging commands to identify errors, and upgrade firmware if necessary.
Q
What are the power and thermal specifications for Nexus 3000 modules?
A
Power consumption varies by module type (typically 20–120 W); each switch supports front-to-back airflow with temperature operating ranges from 0 °C to 40 °C.
Q
How do I order replacement modules for Cisco Nexus 3000?
A
Locate the exact part number (e.g., N3K-C3548PQ-10GX) on your switch’s serial-number label, then contact a Cisco sales representative or authorized partner to place your order.