Cisco EtherSwitch Service Module

Cisco EtherSwitch Service Module

The Cisco C-SM-16P4M2X and C-SM-40P8M2X service modules are layer-2 switch modules that provide enhanced security, reliability, and performance. The Cisco C-SM-16P4M2X and C-SM-40P8M2X modules provide Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) /Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus (SFP+), 1 Gigabit, 2.5 mGiG, and 10G connectivity to the Cisco Catalyst 8300 Series Edge platforms. They also, provide 10G-capable internal uplink to central forwarding data plane on modular ISR platforms.

The Cisco C-SM-16P4M2X and C-SM-40P8M2X service modules are capable of supporting standard Power over Ethernet (PoE), Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+), Cisco Enhanced Power over Ethernet (EPoE), and Cisco Universal Power over Ethernet (UPoE) on all copper ports. A maximum of 60 watts of power for each copper port is supported by leveraging both signal and spare pairs.

This article describes how to install the C-SM-16P4M2X and C-SM-40P8M2X module in the Cisco Catalyst 8300 Series Edge platforms. This installation includes the installation of Small-Form-Factor pluggable (SFP) modules. It also describes how to connect the service module in your network.

Limitations of Cisco C-SM-16P4M2X or C-SM-40P8M2X Service Modules

The limitations of the C-SM-16P4M2X and C-SM-40P8M2X service modules are:

• Either the C-SM-16P4M2X or the C-SM-40P8M2X service module is supported within a single chassis.

Cisco NIM-ES2-4/NIM-ES2-8 and C-SM-16P4M2X cannot co-exist within a single chassis due to feature incompatibility. When you switch between legacy and next-generation switching modes, you need to reload the system.

• After installing the service module, you must reload the system to enable and activate the new next-generation switching feature set.

• Service Module offers better usage with maximum efficiency and convenience


• Enjoy flexibility and scalability with data transfer rate of up to 10 Gbps with 10 Gigabit Ethernet technology


• Supports twisted pair cables for durability and improved signal transfer while ensuring smooth and seamless data transfer


• Service Module with optical network application/usage for maximum dependability and convenience