dfc3a vs dfc3b using sup720

[fredj1234]

Q1: Is there any documentation listing the amount of performance enhancement between DFC3a and DFC3b?

Trying to determine if its worthwhile to purchase DFC3b cards for PFC3b module.

Q2: Is it possible to have mixed DFC cards on the same chassis DFC2 and DFC3 with a PFC3B?

Currently have Sup720,msfc3,pfc3b and module cards that are running DFC3a.

I understand that the PFC3b will function as a PFC3a (according to restriction table on installation note doc)

[Jon Marshall · Accepted solution]

Fred

Q1 - Once you are using DFC's over CFC it's more to do with the capabilities of the PFC in terms of route entries and flow entries supported.

Q2 - have a look at this Q&A which shows exactly what happens when you mix and match -

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/switches/ps708/products_qanda_item09186a00809a7673.shtml#qa1

Jon

[Edison Ortiz]

While most modules would be downward compatible, you will find some exceptions.

A Quick glance in the Release Notes:

Supervisor Engine 720 does not support a DFC3 on WS-X6516-GBIC switching module hardware revisions 5.0 through 5.4. With a Supervisor Engine 720 and with a DFC3 installed, WS-X6516-GBIC switching module hardware revisions 5.0 through 5.4 do not power up.

•With a Supervisor Engine 720 but without a DFC3, WS-X6516-GBIC switching module hardware revisions 5.0 through 5.4 operate in bus mode.

•See external field notice 24494 for more information about Supervisor Engine 720 and a DFC3 on WS-X6516-GBIC switching modules:

http://www.cisco.com/warp/public/770/fn24494.shtml

I'm sure there are more compatibility issues in hardware and some software limitations, but I don't have a lot of time to read the whole Release Notes :)

Please take a moment and read the Release Notes:

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/docs/switches/lan/catalyst6500/ios/12.2SXF/native/release/notes/OL_4164.html#wp2561763

HTH,

__

Edison.