Cabinet Requirements for a QFX5100 Device

You can mount the QFX5100 device in an enclosure or cabinet that contains a four-post 19-in. open rack as defined in Cabinets, Racks, Panels, and Associated Equipment (document number EIA-310-D) published by the Electronics Industry Association.

Cabinet requirements consist of:

Cabinet size and clearance
Cabinet airflow requirements

Table 1 provides the cabinet requirements and specifications for the QFX5100 device.

Table 1: Cabinet Requirements for the QFX5100 Device
Cabinet Requirement	Guidelines
Cabinet size and clearance	The minimum cabinet size for accommodating a QFX5100 device is 36 in. (91.4 cm) deep. Large cabinets improve airflow and reduce the chance of overheating.
Cabinet airflow requirements	When you mount the switch in a cabinet, ensure that ventilation through the cabinet is sufficient to prevent overheating. Ensure that the cool air supply you provide through the cabinet adequately dissipates the thermal output of the switch (or switches). Ensure that the cabinet allows the chassis hot exhaust air to exit the cabinet without recirculating into the switch. An open cabinet (without a top or doors) that employs hot air exhaust extraction from the top allows the best airflow through the chassis. If the cabinet contains a top or doors, perforations in these elements assist with removing the hot air exhaust. The QFX5100 device fans exhaust hot air either through the vents on the port panel or through the fans and power supplies. Install the switch in the cabinet in a way that maximizes the open space on the FRU side of the chassis. This maximizes the clearance for critical airflow. Route and dress all cables to minimize the blockage of airflow to and from the chassis. Ensure that the spacing of rails and adjacent cabinets allows for the proper clearance around the switch and cabinet.