Cisco Catalyst 6800-48P-TX: High-Density PoE+ Switching Module for Enterprise Networks

Jun 20 , 2025 27

Cisco Catalyst 6800-48P-TX: High-Density PoE+ Switching Module for Enterprise Networks

Product Overview

The Cisco Catalyst 6800-48P-TX is a high-performance, Power over Ethernet (PoE+) enabled switching module designed for the Catalyst 6800 Series modular chassis. This 48-port Gigabit Ethernet module delivers comprehensive PoE+ support, making it ideal for enterprise access deployments, wireless networks, and IP telephony systems. With its high availability architecture and advanced feature set, it provides reliable connectivity for modern business applications.

Key Specifications

✔ Port Configuration:

• 48x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45 ports (IEEE 802.3af/at PoE+ support)

• 4x 1G/10G SFP+ uplink ports (for high-speed aggregation)
  ✔ PoE Budget: 740W total power (30W per port max, 15.4W standard PoE)
  ✔ Switching Capacity: 136 Gbps non-blocking throughput
  ✔ Forwarding Rate: 102 Mpps
  ✔ Compatibility: All Catalyst 6800 chassis (6800, 6807-XL, 6807R-XL)
  ✔ Power Efficiency: Optimized for energy savings with Cisco EnergyWise

Advanced Features

Cisco IOS XE Software - Supports SD-Access, automation, and DNA Center integration
Comprehensive PoE Management - Real-time power monitoring and allocation
Advanced QoS - Eight queues per port for voice, video, and data prioritization
Enhanced Security:

• Port security, DHCP snooping, and IP Source Guard

• MACsec encryption (optional)
  High Availability:

• Hitless ISSU (In-Service Software Upgrade)

• 1:1 module redundancy support

Deployment Use Cases

• Enterprise Campus Access - Connects IP phones, wireless APs, and security cameras

• High-Density Wi-Fi 6 Deployments - Powers Cisco Catalyst 9100 series APs

• Unified Communications - Supports video conferencing and collaboration systems

• IoT and Smart Building Infrastructure - Powers digital signage and building automation systems

Next-Generation Evolution: Cisco Catalyst 6800-48P-MG-TX (Projected 2026)

Key Upgrades & Innovations

Enhanced Port Capabilities:

• 48x Multi-Gigabit (2.5G/5G/10G) BASE-T PoE++ ports (IEEE 802.3bt)

• 8x 10G/25G SFP28 uplink ports (2.5x uplink capacity)

Increased Power Delivery:

• 1.2kW total PoE budget (up to 90W per port)

• Cisco UPOE+ support for high-power devices

AI-Driven Management:

• Predictive PoE power allocation using machine learning

• Automatic load balancing across power supplies

Next-Generation Security:

• Quantum-resistant cryptography ready

• Enhanced MACsec with 256-bit encryption

Sustainability Improvements:

• 35% more power efficient than previous generation

• Dynamic power scaling based on device needs

Why Upgrade to 48P-MG-TX?

✔ Future-proof for Wi-Fi 6E/7 and IoT deployments
✔ Higher power budget for next-generation endpoints
✔ Improved automation reduces operational overhead
✔ Enhanced security for modern threat landscape
✔ Better energy efficiency for sustainable operations

Conclusion

The Catalyst 6800-48P-TX delivers reliable, high-density PoE+ connectivity for today's enterprise networks, while the next-generation 48P-MG-TX introduces Multi-Gigabit speeds, higher power budgets, and AI-driven management for tomorrow's infrastructure demands.