Cisco WS-X6500-SFM Catalyst 6500 Switch Fabric Module

Overview
The Cisco Catalyst 6500 Switch Fabric Module (model WS-X6500-SFM) is a high-performance, modular component designed to provide the core switching capacity for Cisco Catalyst 6500 series chassis. Engineered for enterprise and service provider networks, this fabric module delivers reliable, low-latency data transport across a wide range of traffic types, enabling seamless scaling as network demands grow.

Key Features

• High-throughput switching fabric with up to 480 Gbps aggregate bandwidth
• Supports both Ethernet and Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) traffic
• Redundant power and fan modules for continuous operation
• Hot-swap capable for maintenance without service interruption
• Integrated with Cisco IOS Software for advanced routing, security and QoS features
• Backward compatible with earlier Catalyst 6500 line cards

Technical Specifications

• Form factor: 2RU, front-to-back sliding module
• Interface: 4 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports (SFP+)
• Switching capacity: 480 Gbps (full duplex)
• Packet forwarding rate: up to 360 Mpps
• Power consumption: 120 W typical, 150 W maximum
• Operating temperature: 0 to 45 deg C (32 to 113 deg F)
• Dimensions: 17.5 in height, 17.5 in depth, 1.75 in width
• Compliance: RoHS, FCC Part 15 Class B

Typical Applications

• Enterprise campus core and distribution layers requiring high bandwidth and low latency
• Data centre aggregation where converged Ethernet and storage traffic are present
• Service provider edge routers that need robust QoS and security capabilities
• Large-scale virtualization environments that demand consistent performance for virtual machines
• High-availability networks that benefit from redundant power and hot-swap maintenance

By integrating the Cisco Catalyst 6500 Switch Fabric Module into your network infrastructure, you gain a scalable foundation that supports future growth, simplifies management, and delivers the reliability that modern businesses expect.