5Planning Switch Stacks
Before connecting the switches in a stack, keep in mind these stacking guidelines:
•Size of the switch and any optional power supply module. The
•Length of cable. Depending on the configurations that you have, you might need different sized cables. If you do not specify the length of the StackWise cable, the
•Access to the switch rear panel and to the rear of the rack if you are planning to stack the switches. If you do not have access to the rear panel, make sure that you cable the switches before you
•For switch stacks that are
–If you are using the RPS 2300, install the RPS first at the bottom of the stack. If needed, allow one RU space between the RPS and the first switch above to provide room for cabling.
–Connect all the
–
–Connect the RPS cable to the first switch above the RPS 2300. Connect the stack cables to the first switch above the RPS.
–Connect the RPS cable to the next switch above the RPS 2300. Connect the stack cables to the next switch above the RPS.
–Repeat until all devices are connected.
For switch dimensions, StackWise cable part numbers, and additional stacking guidelines, see the switch hardware installation guide on Cisco.com. For concepts and procedures to manage switch stacks, see the switch software configuration guide and the stack compatibility guide also on Cisco.com.
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