FAN-7011M-F Arista 7000 Enhanced Speed Fan Module

Product Overview of Arista FAN-7011M-F Fan Module

The Arista FAN-7011M-F represents the cutting edge in thermal management for the high-performance Arista 7000 Series switching platforms. Engineered for maximum airflow with an enhanced forward-to-reverse (F-R) design, this fan module is a critical component for ensuring system stability, optimizing hardware longevity, and supporting the most power-dense network configurations in modern, high-availability data centers, cloud infrastructures, and high-frequency trading environments.

General Information

• Manufacturer: Arista
• Part Number: FAN-7011M-F
• Product Type: High-Performance Cooling Fan Module

Technical Attributes

• Enhanced speed airflow module for enterprise-grade switching
• Precision-engineered fan blades for maximum cooling output
• Reliable operation under continuous heavy usage

Optimized Cooling Efficiency

• Designed for enhanced airflow management
• Supports front-to-rear ventilation for stable system operation
• Maintains consistent temperature levels across switch hardware

Reliability and Durability

• Engineered for continuous uptime in demanding environments
• Built with robust materials ensuring long service life
• Hot-swappable design for quick replacement without downtime

Integration

• Specifically tailored for Arista 7000 series switches
• Seamless integration with enhanced-speed network systems
• Ensures optimal performance when paired with enterprise-grade hardware

Performance Highlights

• Improves airflow direction to safeguard critical components
• Supports energy-efficient cooling with reduced noise levels
• Ideal for data centers requiring consistent thermal regulation

Key Advantages

• Boosts switch longevity through effective heat dissipation
• Minimizes risk of overheating during peak workloads
• Compact design allows easy installation and maintenance

Arista FAN-7011M-F Enhanced Switch Fan Module

The Arista FAN-7011M-F is a critical, field-replaceable cooling component engineered specifically for the high-performance Arista 7000 Series switches, including the 7280R, 7500R, and 7800R platforms. Designed with an Enhanced Speed, Front-to-Rear (F-R) airflow configuration, this fan module ensures optimal thermal management for the most demanding data center and cloud network environments. It is not merely a spare part but a key element in maintaining system stability, maximizing hardware longevity, and ensuring uninterrupted network operations. This module exemplifies Arista's commitment to resilient and serviceable platform design.

Core Function and Technical Specifications

The primary function of the FAN-7011M-F is to actively exhaust hot air from the switch chassis, drawing cool air from the front (intake) and expelling it out the rear. This F-R airflow is the industry standard for most data center hot aisle/cold aisle configurations, making this module a direct replacement and upgrade path for many installed systems.

Detailed Technical Attributes

The module is characterized by its robust build and precise engineering to meet the rigorous demands of 24/7 operation.

Physical and Electrical Specifications

The fan module conforms to a standard switch fan form factor for seamless integration into designated slots on compatible 7000 Series chassis. It operates on a standard power input derived from the switch's backplane. Key specifications include its enhanced rotational speed, which provides increased airflow (measured in CFM - Cubic Feet per Minute) compared to baseline models, ensuring adequate cooling even under maximum load conditions and in elevated ambient temperatures.

Airflow Performance and Acoustic Profile

Engineered for "Enhanced Speed," the FAN-7011M-F delivers a higher static pressure and airflow volume than standard modules. This is crucial for cooling densely packed line cards and high-wattage power supplies in the R-Series platforms. While the enhanced performance is paramount, the module's acoustic noise level is carefully managed to be within acceptable data center thresholds, though it may be higher than that of lower-speed fan units during peak cooling demands.

Compatibility and Deployment Context

Understanding which platforms and configurations require the FAN-7011M-F is essential for correct procurement and deployment.

Airflow and Acoustic Metrics

The module achieves an industry-leading airflow rate, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), at various operating speeds. This performance is balanced against acoustic noise output, measured in decibels (dBA). Under typical operating conditions with dynamic speed control, the module maintains a manageable acoustic profile, but it is designed to prioritize cooling and will increase speed (and noise) as necessary to protect system hardware.

Cooling for Power-Dense Line Cards

The primary driver for the enhanced cooling capacity of the FAN-7011M-F is the support of the highest-performance line cards in the Arista portfolio. These cards, such as the 7500R3 Series with its deep buffer and 7800R3 Series with 400G capabilities, dissipate significant thermal loads that can only be managed by the increased airflow and static pressure provided by this advanced fan module.

Supported Arista 7000 Series Platforms

The FAN-7011M-F is designed as a direct component for specific chassis within the 7000 Series family. Its compatibility is determined by both the chassis model and the required airflow direction.

Airflow Direction Criticality

The "F-R" designation is non-negotiable. This module must only be installed in chassis bays configured for Front-to-Rear airflow. Using an F-R module in a Rear-to-Front (R-F) configured chassis, or vice-versa, will disrupt the engineered thermal flow, lead to inefficient cooling, and cause the switch to overheat. All fan modules in a chassis must have identical airflow directions.

Hot-Swappable Redundancy and High Availability

A cornerstone of the design is enabling maximum system uptime through redundant, hot-swappable components.

Field-Replaceable Unit (FRU) Design

The FAN-7011M-F is a true Field-Replaceable Unit (FRU). It can be installed or removed from the live switch without requiring a power-down or disruption to network traffic. This is vital for maintaining the "five-nines" (99.999%) availability expected in modern networks.

N+1 Redundant Cooling Architecture

Arista 7000 Series switches are designed with N+1 fan redundancy. This means the system can suffer a complete failure of one fan module and continue operating at full capability without risking thermal overload. The system's onboard management will detect the failed fan, increase the speed of the remaining operational fans to compensate, and log an alert for the network operator.

Identifying a Genuine Arista Fan Module

Always source components from authorized Arista Networks distributors or resellers. Genuine Arista FAN-7011M-F modules will have proper Arista labeling, part numbering, and a build quality consistent with OEM standards.

Performance Impact and System Implications

Effective cooling is directly tied to switch performance and hardware investment protection.

Ensuring Full Performance and Longevity

A properly functioning FAN-7011M-F is essential for the switch to operate at its full rated performance. If thermal conditions exceed safe thresholds, EOS may engage protective measures, such as dynamically throttling CPU frequency or, in extreme cases, shutting down line cards to prevent damage. Consistent, adequate cooling provided by healthy fan modules ensures all ASICs and components operate within specification, delivering full throughput and extending the operational life of the entire system.

Power and Efficiency Considerations

While the fan module itself consumes a small amount of power, its role in enabling efficient switch operation is significant. By maintaining optimal temperatures, it prevents excessive leakage current in semiconductors, which can increase power draw. Furthermore, a well-cooled switch ensures power supplies operate at peak efficiency, contributing to lower overall PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness) for the data center.