
C9500-12Q-A Overview
C9500-12Q-A is one of the the Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series Switches. The Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series Switches are the next generation of enterprise-class core and aggregation layer switches, supporting full programmability and serviceability. Based on an x86 CPU, the Catalyst 9500 Series is Cisco’s lead purpose-built fixed core and aggregation enterprise switching platform, built for security, IoT, and cloud. The Catalyst 9500 Series is the industry’s first purpose-built 40 Gigabit Ethernet line of switches targeted for the enterprise campus.
Quick Specs
Figure 1 shows the appearance of C9500-12Q-A.

Table 1 shows the Quick Specs.
Product Code | C9500-12Q-A |
Description | Catalyst 9500 12-port 40G switch, Network Advantage |
Switching capacity | Up to 480 Gbps full duplex |
Forwarding rate | Up to 720 Mpps |
AC power max rating | 950W |
System power consumption | 850W max |
Dimensions (H x W x D) | 1.73 x 17.5 x 21.52 in |
Rack units (RU) | 1 RU |
Product Details
Figure 2 shows the front panel of C9500-12Q-A.

① | 12 40G QSFP ports |
② | RFID |
③ | Console port (RJ-45 Serial) |
④ | Blue beacon LED |
⑤ | 10G Status LEDs |
⑥ | USB mini Type B console port |
⑦ | Mode button |
⑧ | USB 2.0 host port |
⑨ | Ethernet management RJ-45 port |
The Modules, Cards, Licenses
Table 2 shows the recommended elements for the C9500-12Q-A.
Category | Model | Description |
SOFTWARE SUBSCRIPTION | C9500-DNA-12Q-A | C9500 DNA Advantage, Term licenses |
C9500-DNA-L-E-5Y | Catalyst 9500 NW & DNA Essentials. low port density license (5Y) for 12P40G SKU | |
Power Supply | PWR-C4-950WAC-R PWR-C4-950WAC-R/2 | 950W AC Config 4 Power Supply front to back cooling 950W AC Config 4 Power Supply front to back cooling |
Console Cables | CAB-CONSOLE-RJ45 CAB-CONSOLE-USB | Cisco CAB-CONSOLE-RJ45 Console Cable 6ft with RJ45 and DB9F Cisco CAB-CONSOLE-USB Console Cable 6 ft with USB Type A and mini-B |