Cisco N35-FM-48X | Nexus 3550 48-Port 10G SFP+ L1 Matrix Switch, Ultra-Low Latency

Q: What is the primary use case for the N35-FM-48X?
A: The N35-FM-48X is optimized for ultra-low latency applications requiring many-to-one link aggregation, such as financial trading order entry networks and telecommunications networks. It excels at multiplexing and demultiplexing operations where latency is critical.

Q: What latency performance does this switch offer?
A: The N35-FM-48X offers industry-leading latencies: as low as 39 nanoseconds in FastMux mode for multiplexing, sub-5 nanoseconds for Layer 1 patching, and 95 nanoseconds for Layer 2 switching operations.

Q: Can the N35-FM-48X operate as a regular Layer 2 switch?
A: Yes, the platform supports multiple operating modes including Layer 1 matrix switching, multiplexing/demultiplexing, and Layer 2 MAC learning with VLAN tagging and trunking. The operating mode can be configured based on your specific application requirements.

Q: What expansion options are available?
A: The modular architecture includes three external line card bays that can be populated with 16-port SFP+ or 4-port QSFP+ line cards, plus two internal module bays for FPGA upgrades or custom X86 CPU modules to extend functionality.

Q: Is this product still available for purchase?
A: The Cisco Nexus 3550-F series reached End-of-Sale status in October 2025. Contact your Cisco partner or distributor for availability of remaining inventory or information on successor products.