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Cisco C9300-NM-2Q= Catalyst 9300 2-Port 40GbE QSFP+ Network Module - Optical Fiber - 40GBase-X
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This network module operates on 40 Gigabit Ethernet standards, utilizing the 40GBase-X specification to ensure interoperability with compatible optical transceivers and cabling. The dual QSFP+ expansion slots accept industry-standard 40GbE optics, allowing flexible deployment with single-mode or multimode fiber depending on the installed transceiver.
As a hot-pluggable plug-in module, it supports live insertion and removal in compatible Catalyst 9300 switches, minimizing downtime during maintenance or upgrades. The design focuses on delivering consistent performance for data center aggregation, campus core uplinks, and high-capacity network backbones where optical fiber's distance and signal integrity advantages are critical.
Key Product Advantages
This module provides a cost-effective expansion solution for Catalyst 9300 switches, doubling available 40GbE ports without requiring a full switch replacement. Its optical fiber support ensures minimal signal loss over longer distances compared to copper alternatives, maintaining data integrity in extended network topologies.
High-Density Uplinks
Adds two 40GbE QSFP+ ports to compatible switches, enabling higher bandwidth for aggregated links to core switches, servers, or storage arrays.
- Supports link aggregation for up to 80 Gbps throughput
- Ideal for spine-leaf or core-distribution architectures
Optical Performance
Designed for fiber optic cabling, delivering reliable high-speed connectivity with lower latency and immunity to electromagnetic interference.
- Enables longer reach connections between network segments
- Maintains signal quality across data center or campus distances
Deployment / Use Cases
This network module is primarily deployed as a spare or expansion component in Catalyst 9300-based networks requiring additional 40GbE connectivity. It serves as a direct replacement for failed modules or as an upgrade to increase port density in existing switch chassis.
Typical use cases include adding high-speed uplinks from access-layer Catalyst 9300 switches to distribution or core layers, creating 40GbE links for server-to-switch connections in virtualized environments, and building resilient network backbones for data center interconnects. Its optical fiber compatibility makes it suitable for connections that span across buildings or longer intra-campus distances where copper limitations would be a concern.
Highlights
- Dual 40 Gigabit Ethernet QSFP+ expansion slots for high-density uplinks
- 40GBase-X network technology supporting up to 40Gbps data transfer rates
- Optical fiber media compatibility for durable, long-distance performance
- Hot-pluggable plug-in module form factor for easy installation and maintenance
- Designed as a spare component for Cisco Catalyst 9300 series switches
- Supports efficient data aggregation and high-capacity network backbones
- Enables scalable network expansion without replacing core switch hardware
- Ideal for data center, campus core, and high-bandwidth aggregation scenarios
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cisco Systems, Inc |
| Manufacturer Part Number | C9300-NM-2Q= |
| Brand Name | Cisco |
| Product Name | Catalyst 9300 2 x 40GE Network Module, Spare |
| Product Type | Network Module |
| Technical Information | |
| Application/Usage | Optical Network |
| Media & Performance | |
| Media Type Supported | Optical Fiber |
| Ethernet Technology | 40 Gigabit Ethernet |
| Network Technology | 40GBase-X |
| I/O Expansions | |
| Total Number of Expansion Slots | 2 |
| Expansion Slot Type | QSFP+ |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Plug-in Module |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Compatibility | Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series Switches |
FAQ
What switches is this network module compatible with?
This module is specifically compatible with Cisco Catalyst 9300 series switches. It is designed as a spare or expansion component for these models and may not function with other Catalyst series or non-Cisco networking equipment. Always verify your switch model's compatibility documentation before purchase.
What type of transceivers or cables does this module support?
The module features two QSFP+ expansion slots that support industry-standard 40GbE optical transceivers. These transceivers must be compatible with Cisco Catalyst 9300 switches and can interface with single-mode or multimode fiber optic cabling, depending on the transceiver type. Direct attach copper cables (DAC) may also be used with appropriate QSFP+ to QSFP+ DACs that are coded for Cisco platforms.
What is the maximum data transfer rate per port?
Each port supports 40 Gigabit Ethernet (40GbE) with a maximum data transfer rate of 40 gigabits per second. The module utilizes 40GBase-X network technology to achieve this speed over supported optical fiber or direct attach cable connections. When both ports are active, the module can provide up to 80 Gbps of aggregate throughput.
Can this module be hot-swapped during operation?
Yes, as a plug-in module designed for Catalyst 9300 switches, it supports hot-pluggable operation. This allows for installation or removal while the switch is powered on and running, minimizing network downtime during maintenance, upgrades, or module replacement. Always follow Cisco's recommended procedures for safe hot-swapping to avoid data disruption.