Cisco NXA-FAN-35CFM-PE – Single Fan Module

Cisco NXA-FAN-35CFM-PE – Single Fan Module with 35 CFM & Port-Side Exhaust Airflow for Nexus 2000, 3000, and 9000 Series Switches

The Cisco NXA-FAN-35CFM-PE is a genuine, high-efficiency single fan module engineered to deliver reliable thermal management across multiple Cisco Nexus switch platforms, including the Nexus 2000 Fabric Extenders (FEX), Nexus 3000, and select Nexus 9000 fixed and modular systems. Designed with 35 CFM (cubic feet per minute) airflow capacity and port-side exhaust orientation, this compact yet powerful fan ensures optimal cooling performance while aligning with modern data center airflow strategies.

As a critical component for maintaining system stability and longevity, the NXA-FAN-35CFM-PE supports hot-swappable operation, intelligent speed control, and seamless integration with Cisco’s hardware ecosystem—making it an essential spare or replacement part for network administrators managing enterprise or cloud-scale infrastructures.

Key Features at a Glance

• Model: NXA-FAN-35CFM-PE
• Airflow Direction: Port-side exhaust (air pulled from the power-supply side and expelled through the port side)
• Airflow Rating: 35 CFM
• Compatibility:
  • Nexus 2000 Series (e.g., N2K-C2248TP, N2K-C2232PP)
  • Nexus 3000 Series (e.g., N3K-C3064, N3K-C3132)
  • Nexus 9000 Series (select fixed switches like N9K-C9236C, N9K-C92160YC, and some modular chassis fan zones)
• Hot-Swappable: Yes – enables maintenance without service interruption
• Form Factor: Compact, single-fan design for space-constrained systems
• Cisco Certified: Fully validated for performance, acoustics, and thermal compliance

Note: Always verify compatibility with your specific switch model and airflow configuration before installation. Mixing intake and exhaust components can cause overheating.

Understanding Airflow: Port-Side Exhaust (PE)

The “PE” in NXA-FAN-35CFM-PE stands for Port-side Exhaust, a critical designation in Cisco’s airflow labeling system:

• Port-side exhaust means the fan blows hot air out through the front (port) side of the switch.
• This design is typically used in reverse airflow deployments where cold air is drawn from the rear (power side) and exhausted forward—common in certain rack layouts or when switches are mounted in non-standard orientations.

Why airflow direction matters:

• Ensures alignment with data center hot-aisle/cold-aisle design
• Prevents thermal recirculation and hot spots
• Maintains warranty and support eligibility (Cisco requires matching airflow across all components)

Broad Compatibility Across Nexus Platforms

The versatility of the NXA-FAN-35CFM-PE makes it a cost-effective, universal spare for multi-generational Cisco Nexus environments:

• Nexus 2000 FEX: Often deployed in top-of-rack (ToR) roles, these fabric extenders rely on efficient cooling despite their compact size. The NXA-FAN-35CFM-PE ensures stable operation under sustained loads.
• Nexus 3000: Fixed switches used in access and aggregation layers benefit from this fan’s balance of airflow and low noise—ideal for enterprise wiring closets or edge deployments.
• Nexus 9000 (Fixed Models): High-density 10/25/100G switches generate significant heat; proper fan function is essential to prevent throttling or shutdowns.

Important: While the fan is used across platforms, physical installation and retention mechanisms may vary. Always consult the hardware installation guide for your specific model.

Reliability & Operational Benefits

• Hot-Swappable Design: Replace failed fans during live operation—no need to power down critical network links.
• Intelligent Speed Control: Fan RPM adjusts dynamically based on internal temperature (via switch firmware), optimizing noise and power consumption.
• Robust Construction: Built with high-MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) components for 24/7 operation in demanding environments.
• Full Cisco Integration: Recognized by NX-OS, with real-time status reporting via CLI (show environment fan) and Cisco DCNM.

When to Deploy the NXA-FAN-35CFM-PE

This fan module is ideal for:

• Replacing a failed or noisy fan in compatible Nexus switches
• Maintaining spare parts inventory for multi-platform environments
• Ensuring airflow consistency during hardware refreshes or rack reconfigurations
• Restoring redundancy in systems with multiple fan slots

Using non-Cisco or mismatched airflow fans can trigger system alerts, reduce cooling efficiency, or void support contracts—making genuine NXA-FAN-35CFM-PE modules the safe, compliant choice.