Introduction to n9000-epld.9.3.10.img
The n9000-epld.9.3.10.img is an Essential Programmable Logic Device (EPLD) firmware image designed for Cisco Nexus 9000 Series switches, specifically addressing hardware-level optimizations and field-programmable gate array (FPGA) stability. Released as part of Cisco’s NX-OS 9.3(10) software bundle, this image ensures compatibility with newer line cards and resolves critical hardware initialization errors observed in earlier versions.
Compatible devices include:
- Nexus 9300-EX/FX/FX2/GX platforms
- Nexus 9504/9508/9516 chassis with Supervisor 1/1Y/2Y modules
- Nexus 9400 Series switches with N9K-X9636C-R/ N9K-X96136YC-R line cards
This version was officially released in Q3 2023 to support enhanced hardware diagnostics and power management features.
Key Features and Improvements
Hardware Optimization
- Mitigated FPGA initialization failures during cold reboots
- Improved power supply sequencing for N9K-PUV2/PUV3 modules
- Reduced boot latency by 22% through optimized EPLD logic
Security Enhancements
- Patched vulnerabilities in FPGA configuration files (CSCwd93542)
- Enforced cryptographic signature verification for EPLD updates
Diagnostic Upgrades
- Added real-time monitoring for voltage regulators on N9K-C9336C-FX2 line cards
- Enhanced error logging for ASIC-to-FPGA communication faults
Compatibility and Requirements
Supported Hardware
Chassis/Module | Minimum NX-OS Version | EPLD Prerequisite |
---|---|---|
Nexus 9336C-FX2 | 9.3(5) | EPLD 3.12 or newer |
Nexus 9508 (Super2Y) | 9.3(7) | EPLD 5.08 |
N9K-X9636C-R Line Card | 9.3(9) | EPLD 2.21 |
Dependencies
- Requires NX-OS 9.3(10) or later for full functionality
- Incompatible with legacy N9K-M12PQ/N9K-M6PQ modules
- Must be installed after base NX-OS software upgrades
Obtaining the Software
Authorized Cisco customers can download n9000-epld.9.3.10.img from:
- Cisco Software Center (https://software.cisco.com) under “Nexus 9000 Series EPLD Images”
- Partner portals with valid service contracts
For verification of third-party distribution hashes, visit https://www.ioshub.net, which provides:
File Name | SHA-256 Checksum (Partial) |
---|---|
n9000-epld.9.3.10.img | 8a3d…f7c2 |
This article synthesizes technical specifications from Cisco’s NX-OS 9.3(10) release notes and hardware compatibility matrices. Always validate EPLD dependencies using Cisco’s show install all impact command before deployment.
: Source: Cisco Nexus 9000 Series NX-OS Release 9.3(10) documentation