Supermicro SSE-X3348T User Manual

3-3
Chapter 3: Network Planning
3-2 Rack Cooling
The top-of-rack switch is a high-performance, high-density unit that generates a
substantial amount of heat. When mounted in a rack with other equipment, it is
important that the switch has the same airflow direction to avoid “hot loops” in the data
center ailses. Hot loops increase cooling requirements since warm air is drawn into rack
devices instead of cool air.
Most rack-mounted servers draw cool air from the front and expel hot air at the rear. The
SSE-X3348T top-of-rack switch includes power supply units and a fan tray module that
have a front-to-back (F2B) airflow direction that maintains cool aisles in the data center
(Figure 3-3).
When mounted in a rack with other network equipment that may have a back-to-front
(B2F) airflow direction, the SSE-X3348TR top-of-rack switch includes power supply and
fan tray modules that reverse the airflow direction through the switch (Figure 3-4). This
enables various deployment options for the switch in the data center.
Figure 3-3. F2B Airflow Cooling
Front of Rack
Rear of Rack
Cool Aisle
Hot Aisle
Servers
ToR Switch

Supermicro SSE-X3348T Specifications

General

Brand	Supermicro
Model	SSE-X3348T
Category	Switch
Language	English