The Apic Datasheet is a crucial document for anyone working with or considering Cisco's Application Policy Infrastructure Controller (APIC). It serves as a comprehensive repository of technical specifications, operational details, and performance metrics. Understanding the contents of an Apic Datasheet is key to making informed decisions about network design, deployment, and management.
What is an Apic Datasheet and How is it Used?
An Apic Datasheet is essentially a technical specification document provided by Cisco that outlines the capabilities, features, and requirements of the Cisco APIC. It details everything from the hardware specifications of the APIC appliance itself, such as its processing power, memory, and storage, to the software features and functionalities it supports. This includes information on supported protocols, integration capabilities with other networking and security devices, and the scalability of the platform. The Apic Datasheet is indispensable for planning and verifying compatibility within a data center environment.
These datasheets are used in various stages of a network lifecycle. During the planning phase, network architects and engineers consult the Apic Datasheet to determine if the APIC meets the requirements for their specific use case. This might involve checking for support of particular virtual machine managers, cloud platforms, or network services. For example, a table within the datasheet might list:
- Supported hypervisors
- Maximum number of endpoints
- Supported network fabrics
During deployment, the Apic Datasheet acts as a reference to ensure the hardware and software are configured correctly and that all necessary prerequisites are met. It can also be used for troubleshooting by providing baseline performance data or information about specific hardware components. Ultimately, it’s a central point for verifying that the APIC solution aligns with both technical needs and vendor-recommended practices. The datasheet often provides lists of:
- Supported Cisco UCS server models
- APIC cluster configurations
- Management interface options
Here's a simplified overview of typical sections found in an Apic Datasheet:
| Section Title | Content Overview |
|---|---|
| Hardware Specifications | Details on APIC appliance models, CPU, RAM, storage. |
| Software Features | Information on supported policies, automation, and integration. |
| Scalability and Performance | Metrics on supported endpoints, fabric size, and throughput. |
| Compatibility | Lists of supported hypervisors, cloud platforms, and network devices. |
By thoroughly reviewing the Apic Datasheet, you gain a clear understanding of the APIC's potential and its place within your infrastructure. This document is your direct source for accurate and up-to-date information on the APIC platform. Please refer to the Apic Datasheet provided by Cisco for the most definitive details.