Linecard Expansion Module

The Linecard expansion module (LEM) is a pluggable expansion module for the SAN96C-6 Switch. The switch is shipped with three LEMs. Each LEM has 16 32 Gbps ports that are automatically detected and enabled by the switch. The ports may then be used when the correct port licenses are installed.

Figure 1. SAN96C-6 LEM

A LEM blank module must be installed if a LEM slot is empty when operating for longer than several minutes to provide correct airflow. If the airflow is inadequate the preset temperature thresholds will be exceeded and the system will automatically shut down to prevent permanent damage.

Note: If there is an empty LEM slot (with or without the blank module), then the LEM(s) present after this slot will not be detected.
1 LEM 1 3 LEM 3
2 LEM 2
Consider the following cases:
  • If LEM 1 is absent, both LEM 2 and LEM 3 are not detected by the switch.
  • If LEM 2 is absent, then only LEM 1 is detected by the switch. LEM 3 is ignored.
  • If LEM 3 is absent, the switch detects both LEM 1 and LEM 2 because there are no LEMs after LEM 3.

A LEM should be removed only while replacing it with a new one in case of a fault condition. For more information on installing and removing the LEM, see Installing and Removing the Linecard Expansion Module.