Cisco N540-24Q8L2DD-SYS | NCS 540 Router, 24x 25G + 8x 50G + 2x 400G, 1RU

Q: What is the maximum throughput of the N540-24Q8L2DD-SYS?
A: The router supports up to 1.1 Tbps throughput starting from IOS XR Release 24.1.1. Prior releases support up to 1 Tbps with a default configuration of 2x 100GE + 32x 25GE interfaces. The forwarding rate reaches up to 600 Mpps.

Q: Can the 400GE QSFP-DD ports support lower speeds?
A: Yes, the 2x QSFP-DD ports are highly flexible and can operate as 400GE, 200GE, 100GE, or 40GE interfaces. They can also be configured as 3x 100GE or 2x 100GE depending on transceiver modules and configuration requirements.

Q: What licensing is required for this router?
A: The N540-24Q8L2DD-SYS requires Cisco IOS XR software licenses calculated per 10G capacity (e.g., ESS-AC-10G-RTU-1 for Essentials or ADV-AC-10G-RTU-1 for Advantage). Licensing enables advanced features like segment routing, EVPN, and security functions.

Q: Is this router suitable for outdoor deployments?
A: Yes, the NCS 540 large density platform is temperature-hardened with an industrial operating range of -40°C to +70°C. It is designed for both indoor and outdoor service provider edge environments including mobile backhaul and converged access.

Q: Does this model support timing and synchronization for mobile networks?
A: Yes, the router provides comprehensive timing support including SyncE, IEEE 1588v2 PTP, and Class C timing accuracy. It features an internal GNSS receiver supporting GPS, Galileo, Glonass, and BeiDou constellations with 1PPS, 10MHz, and ToD interfaces.