Description
Product Overview of Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series Switching Module
In the realm of networking solutions, Cisco Systems stands as a prominent leader, providing a wide array of hardware and software products designed to facilitate efficient and reliable communication across networks of all sizes. Among its offerings, the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Catalyst 6500 Series 48 Ports Switching Module holds significance for its capabilities in enabling Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality within the Catalyst 6500 Series switches. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the features, specifications, benefits, and potential applications of the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Switching Module.
Understanding Catalyst 6500 Series Switching Modules
Before delving into the specifics of the WS-X6348-RJ45V module, it’s essential to grasp the broader context of Catalyst 6500 Series switching modules. The Catalyst 6500 Series switches serve as high-performance modular platforms designed to meet the evolving demands of enterprise and service provider networks. These switches support various line cards or modules, each catering to specific networking requirements, such as Ethernet connectivity, PoE functionality, and advanced services.
Unveiling of Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Switching Module
The Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Catalyst 6500 Series Switching Module is a line card designed to be installed in Catalyst 6500 Series switches. This module provides 48 ports of Ethernet connectivity, with each port capable of delivering Power over Ethernet (PoE). The “RJ45V” designation indicates that the module supports PoE, enabling the delivery of power to connected devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and surveillance cameras through the Ethernet cable itself. Let’s delve deeper into the key features and specifications of the WS-X6348-RJ45V Switching Module.
Key Features of Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Switching Module
- 48 Ports of Ethernet Connectivity: The WS-X6348-RJ45V module offers 48 ports, allowing for the connection of a large number of devices to the network infrastructure.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) Support: PoE functionality enables the module to deliver power to connected devices, eliminating the need for separate power sources and simplifying deployment.
- IEEE 802.3af Compliance: The module adheres to the IEEE 802.3af standard for PoE, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of PoE-enabled devices available in the market.
- Scalability: As part of the Catalyst 6500 Series, the WS-X6348-RJ45V module provides scalability to accommodate growing network requirements, allowing for expansion as needed.
- Hot-Swappable Design: The hot-swappable nature of the module allows for insertion and removal without disrupting network operation, facilitating maintenance and upgrades with minimal downtime.
- High Performance: With its high-speed Ethernet ports and support for PoE, the WS-X6348-RJ45V module delivers reliable performance to meet the demands of modern network environments.
Specifications of Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Switching Module
- Port Density: 48 ports
- Ethernet Interface: RJ-45
- PoE Standard: IEEE 802.3af
- Maximum PoE Power Budget: Varies depending on the switch platform and power supply configuration
- Compatibility: Compatible with Catalyst 6500 Series switches
Benefits of Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Switching Module
- Simplified Deployment: By integrating PoE functionality into the Ethernet switch module, the WS-X6348-RJ45V simplifies the deployment of PoE-enabled devices, reducing cabling complexity and installation time.
- Cost Savings: PoE eliminates the need for separate power outlets and adapters for connected devices, resulting in cost savings on infrastructure and energy consumption.
- Flexibility: The WS-X6348-RJ45V module provides flexibility in network design by supporting a diverse range of PoE-powered devices, including IP phones, wireless access points, and IP cameras.
- Enhanced Reliability: With its high-performance design and hot-swappable capability, the WS-X6348-RJ45V module contributes to the overall reliability and availability of the network infrastructure.
- Future-Proofing: As part of the Catalyst 6500 Series, the WS-X6348-RJ45V module offers scalability and investment protection, ensuring compatibility with future network expansion and technology advancements.
Use Cases and Applications
The Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Switching Module finds application in various scenarios across industries, where PoE functionality is required to power network-connected devices. Some common use cases include:
- Enterprise Networks: In corporate environments, the WS-X6348-RJ45V module facilitates the deployment of IP phones, enabling unified communications and collaboration solutions without the need for separate power sources.
- Wireless Networking: The module powers wireless access points (APs) in wireless LAN deployments, providing connectivity to mobile devices while simplifying installation and reducing cable clutter.
- Surveillance Systems: For security and surveillance applications, the WS-X6348-RJ45V module powers IP cameras and network video recorders (NVRs), enabling seamless integration of video surveillance into the network infrastructure.
- Education and Healthcare: In educational institutions and healthcare facilities, the module supports the deployment of IP-based communication systems, patient monitoring devices, and other networked equipment, enhancing operational efficiency and patient care.
- Retail and Hospitality: In retail stores and hospitality venues, the WS-X6348-RJ45V module powers point-of-sale (POS) terminals, digital signage displays, and guest room amenities, enabling the delivery of enhanced services to customers.
Advanced Switching Features and Functions of Catalyst Switch
The Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Catalyst 6000 10/100btx 48 Ports Rj-45 Module is a high-performance switching module that provides advanced features and functions for large enterprise networks. Some of the key advanced switching features and functions of this module include:
- VLAN Support: The module supports VLANs (Virtual LANs) which enable the segmentation of a network into multiple isolated broadcast domains. This improves network security and reduces network congestion.
- Quality of Service (QoS): The module supports QoS, which allows for the prioritization of network traffic based on specific requirements. This ensures that mission-critical applications and services receive the necessary bandwidth and low latency.
- Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP): The module supports LACP, which allows for the bundling of multiple physical ports into a single logical link. This increases the bandwidth and improves the redundancy of the network.
- Spanning Tree Protocol (STP): The module supports STP, which prevents network loops by selecting a single active path between switches. This improves network stability and reduces the risk of network failure.
- Layer 3 Switching: The module supports Layer 3 switching, which enables the switching of packets based on their IP addresses. This improves network performance and scalability.
- Access Control Lists (ACLs): The module supports ACLs, which provide the ability to filter network traffic based on specific criteria. This improves network security and reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
- Port Security: The module supports port security, which allows for the configuration of security features on individual ports. This improves network security and reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE): The module supports PoE, which allows for the power supply of connected devices through the Ethernet cables. This simplifies network deployment and reduces the need for additional power sources.
Implementing Spanning Tree Protocol
The Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Catalyst 6000 10/100btx 48 Ports Switch Module supports the implementation of the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to prevent network loops and ensure a loop-free topology in a switched network. STP is a Layer 2 protocol that runs on all Cisco Catalyst switches and is used to prevent loops by selecting a single active path between two devices while blocking all other redundant paths.
To implement STP on the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V switch, the following steps are typically followed:
- Configure the switch as the root bridge: The root bridge is the switch that is selected as the center of the STP topology. To configure the switch as the root bridge, the switch’s bridge priority is set to the lowest value.
- Configure the switch ports: The switch ports are configured with specific STP parameters, such as port priority and path cost. These parameters determine the path that the switch will use to forward traffic.
- Configure the switch for Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP): RSTP is an enhancement to STP that reduces the time it takes for STP to converge after a topology change. To configure RSTP, the switch’s STP mode is set to RSTP.
- Monitor the STP topology: The switch can be configured to periodically send out BPDUs (Bridge Protocol Data Units) to detect changes in the network topology. The switch can also be configured to send SNMP traps to alert administrators of topology changes.
- Troubleshoot STP: The switch provides several commands and tools to troubleshoot and diagnose STP problems, such as show spanning-tree, debug spanning-tree, and show spanning-tree summary.
Once configured, the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V switch will use STP to ensure a loop-free topology in the network and prevent network outages caused by loops.
Power and Energy Efficiency
The WS-X6348-RJ45V Catalyst 6000 10/100btx Rj-45 Module Ethernet 48 Ports Switch is a highly efficient and powerful switch that provides high-speed data transfer and advanced features for network connectivity. It is designed to provide high-performance switching and routing capabilities, making it ideal for use in large enterprise networks.
In terms of power efficiency, the switch is designed to consume minimal power while providing maximum performance. It features a low-power design and advanced power management features, such as Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) and Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, which help to reduce power consumption and lower energy costs.
The switch also offers advanced energy efficiency features, such as dynamic power management and energy-saving modes, which allow it to adjust its power consumption based on network traffic and usage patterns. This helps to further reduce energy costs and minimize the environmental impact of the switch.
General Information about this Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# WS-X6348-RJ45V
- Product Name: Catalyst Switching Module
Technical Information
- Application/Usage: Switching Network
Interfaces/Ports
- Interfaces/Ports: 48 x 10/100Base-TX LAN
- Interfaces/Ports Details: 48 x RJ-45 10/100Base-TX LAN
Media & Performance
- Connectivity Media:
- Category 5 UTP
- 100 ohm STP
- Data Transfer Rate:
- 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet Half/Full-duplex @ 328 ft
In summary, the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45V Catalyst 6500 Series Switching Module offers a versatile solution for integrating Power over Ethernet functionality into enterprise and service provider networks. With its high port density, IEEE 802.3af compliance, and hot-swappable design, this module simplifies the deployment of PoE-enabled devices while delivering reliable performance and scalability. Whether deployed in corporate networks, wireless LANs, surveillance systems, or other environments, the WS-X6348-RJ45V module plays a vital role in powering and connecting the devices that drive modern business operations.
