Fan Modules

The SAN96C-6 Multilayer Fabric switch supports two hot-swappable fan modules that allow the switches to continue to run if a fan module is removed, provided that the preset temperature thresholds have not been exceeded. You can swap out a fan module without having to bring the system down. Each fan module on the SAN96C-6 switch has two fans.

The direction of the airflow through a fan module is denoted by colors on the module faceplate:

  • Red—Port-side intake airflow (DS-C96S-FAN-I)

  • Blue—Port-side exhaust airflow (DS-C96S-FAN-E)

If a chassis has two different fan modules, one supporting port-side exhaust airflow and the other supporting port-side intake airflow, the switch is immediately powered down.

Note:

To verify the current fan module on the switch, use the show inventory fan command.

Figure 1. SAN96C-6 Fan Module
CAUTION:

The SAN96C-6 switch has internal temperature sensors that can shut down the system if the temperature at different points within the chassis exceeds certain safety thresholds. Temperature control within the chassis is dependent on airflow created by the fan modules; therefore, in the event a fan module is removed from the chassis, the SAN96C-6 switch will shut down after five minutes to prevent potentially undetectable overheating. However, the switch will shut down sooner if a higher-level temperature threshold is exceeded. For normal operation, the SAN96C-6 switch requires two fans. Fan module status is indicated on a front panel LED. To check temperature threshold values, use the show environment temperature command.

Procedures for replacing and installing the fan modules are available in the Installing and Removing Components section.