Cisco 5700 Line Card

The Cisco 5700 Line Card is a high-performance solution designed to elevate the capabilities of the Cisco NCS 5500 Series. This line card caters to the increasing demands of modern networking environments, offering unmatched features that ensure your infrastructure is prepared for the future. With its extensive forwarding capacity and support for various interfaces, the Cisco 5700 Line Card is the ideal choice for network service providers and organizations looking to expand their networking capabilities.

• Massive Forwarding Capacity: The Cisco 5700 Line Card enhances the NCS 5500 series' forwarding capacity by up to 2.7 times, reaching a phenomenal maximum of 153.6 Tbps per system. This capability is crucial for managing the anticipated 25% annual increase in global data center and cloud network traffic.
• High Port Density: Available in both base and enhanced scale (SE) versions, the line card features high port densities, with options such as 24 ports of 400G or 30 ports of 200G/100G. This flexibility allows for configurations that cater to varied enterprise needs.
• Advanced Packet Forwarding: The Cisco 5700 Line Card is equipped with advanced packet forwarding, segment routing, and programmable network management capabilities, ensuring robust performance even in high-demand environments. It works seamlessly with the 64-bit Cisco IOS® XR Software, offering a mature feature set that organizations can depend on.
• Seamless Integration: Designed for backward compatibility, these line cards can coexist with earlier generation line cards when used in conjunction with second-generation fabric cards and fan trays. This feature allows organizations to upgrade their systems without the need for extensive overhauls.
• Optimized for 400G Interfaces: With QSFP-DD optics, the Cisco 5700 Line Card is prepared for mass-scale networking utilizing 400 gigabit Ethernet technology. This capability enhances productivity and connectivity for a multitude of data networking applications.

Technical Details of the Cisco 5700 Line Card

• Model: Cisco NC57-24DD / Cisco NC57-18DD-SE
• Ports: 24 ports of 400 GE (NC57-24DD) or 30 ports of 200 GE/100 GE (NC57-18DD-SE)
• Bandwidth: Up to 9.6 Tbps for NC57-24DD and up to 7.2 Tbps for NC57-18DD-SE
• Transceivers: Compatible with QSFP28 / QSFP+ / QSFP-DD
• Compatibility: Requires second-generation fabric cards and fan trays for installation
• FIB Scale: Up to an additional 4M+ routes on the SE version compared to the base version

How to Install the Cisco 5700 Line Card

Installing the Cisco 5700 Line Card in your NCS 5500 modular chassis is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a successful installation:

1. Ensure that the system is powered off before proceeding with the installation.
2. Remove the cover of your NCS 5500 chassis to access the line card slots.
3. Select the appropriate slot for the Cisco 5700 Line Card, ensuring compatibility with second-generation fabric cards and fan trays.
4. Carefully insert the line card into the slot, ensuring it is securely seated.
5. Replace the chassis cover and power on the system.
6. Once the system is powered on, verify the installation through the software interface to confirm proper functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What models of the line card are available? The Cisco 5700 Line Card comes in two models: NC57-24DD (24 ports of 400 GE) and NC57-18DD-SE (18 ports of 400 GE or 30 ports of 200 GE/100 GE).
• Can I use the new line cards with my existing Cisco NCS 5500 system? Yes, the newer generation line cards are backward compatible and can coexist with previous generation line cards when used with second-generation fabric cards and fan trays.
• What software is required for the Cisco 5700 Line Card? The line card requires the 64-bit Cisco IOS® XR Software for optimal performance and to utilize its full feature set.
• What are the benefits of the enhanced scale (SE) version? The SE version supports an expanded Forwarding Information Base (FIB) with additional 4M+ routes, allowing for more complex and demanding network environments.
• Is installation of the Cisco 5700 Line Card difficult? Installation is straightforward and can be completed in a few easy steps, ensuring minimal downtime for your network.