Alcatel-Lucent omni 6600 User Manual

Page of 144
OmniSwitch 6600 Family Chassis and Hardware Components
Temperature Management
OmniSwitch 6600 Family Hardware Users Guide
September 2006
page 2-59
Blank Cover Panels
Blank cover panels are provided with your switch and are used to cover empty uplink and stacking module 
slots, as well as empty backup power supply bays (if applicable). These cover panels play an important 
role in chassis airflow and temperature management. They also protect the switch’s processor board and 
other sensitive internal switch components from physical damage by closing off a chassis that is not fully 
populated.
If your switch is not fully populated with submodules and a redundant power supply, and blank cover 
panels are not installed over empty slot locations, airflow is adversely affected. 
When blank cover panels are missing, air does not take the direct route from the air intake vent, through 
the chassis, and then out through the fan exhaust vents. Instead, a portion of the airflow is allowed to be 
drawn in through the front and rear of the chassis. As a result, normal airflow is disrupted and an extra 
task is placed on the fans to cool the chassis. 
Cover panels also provide protection for module processor boards and other sensitive internal switch 
components by closing off a chassis that is not fully populated.
Because they regulate airflow and help protect internal chassis components, blank cover panels should 
remain installed over empty module slots and power supply bays at all times. 
Effects of Missing Blank Panels on Chassis Airflow
Missing Cover Panels.
Missing cover panels affect
airflow by allowing air to be
drawn in through the front
submodule bays or rear
redundant power supply bay.
As a result, the direct route
from the air intake vent to the
fan exhaust vents is dis-
rupted. 
For optimal airflow and
chassis component protec-
tion, always install blank
cover panels over empty
slots and power supply bays.
Air Intake Vent
Air leakage due to 
missing submodule 
cover panels
Air leakage due to 
missing redundant 
power supply panel