WS-C6509-E

The WS-C6509-E Cisco 6509E switch chassis is designed for convenience with room for nine Cisco Catalyst network modules of your choosing. Not only is it the perfect option for building a desktop wiring cabinet or creating a network node that's physically embedded in a wall or building, it's also compatible with standard rack mounts, taking up a mere 15 units of space.

This WS-C6509-E chassis is manageable in the same fashion as the Cisco 6500 series switch devices and modules you plug into it. It's compatible with multiple Cisco IOS software versions, including Release 6.3.6, Release 12.1(08)E and Release 12.2(14)SX. This widespread backwards compatibility means that you can easily get switch devices and network routers from different Catalyst families working together in perfect harmony.

The WS-C6509-E requires a minimum 2500 Watt AC or DC power supply, but of course, the actual amount of power it draws will depend on what you install. Fortunately, you can test things out and make changes at will, as Cisco's sliding hot swap module technology makes it easy to install line cards, switch fabrics, specialized bundles or supervisor modules. If necessary, you can even scale this chassis up to 4000 Watt and higher power supplies.

At 60.2 lbs, the WS-C6509-E is extremely light for such a capable wiring cabinet. It's rated for 7 years of operation between failures, and it can easily be used to build modular data centers from the ground up. This Cisco Catalyst 6509 chassis is completely unpopulated, so you'll have to select an appropriate fan in addition to your switch modules and power supplies, but don't let that minor detail stop you from taking advantage of its awesome capabilities.