NVIDIA Spectrum SN3000 Series Switch - MSN3420-CB2F

1. Product Overview

The MSN3420-CB2F is a high-performance, open Ethernet network switch from the NVIDIA Spectrum SN3000 series, designed for modern data center top-of-rack (ToR) and leaf-layer deployments. It features 48 ports of 10/25GbE SFP28 and 12 ports of up to 100GbE QSFP28, delivering a total throughput of 4.8 Tb/s. Powered by the Spectrum-2 ASIC, it ensures consistent low latency, advanced telemetry, and support for multiple open network operating systems, making it a versatile and future-proof solution for cloud, enterprise, and high-performance computing environments.

2. Key Characteristics

• 48 x SFP28 (10/25GbE) + 12 x QSFP28 (40/100GbE) ports
• Throughput: 4.8 Tb/s | Packet Rate: 3.58 Bpps
• Cut-through latency: 425 ns
• 42 MB fully shared packet buffer
• Support for Cumulus Linux, NVIDIA Onyx, and ONIE-compatible OS
• Hardware-accelerated telemetry (WJH, INT, streaming)
• Hot-swappable power supplies and fans with reversible airflow

3. Core Technologies

The SN3000 series leverages the NVIDIA Spectrum-2 ASIC, enabling advanced features such:

• VXLAN routing and bridging
• RoCE (RDMA over Converged Ethernet) for NVMe-oF and AI workloads
• IPv6 Segment Routing
• Cloud-scale NAT support
• Programmable pipeline with deep packet inspection (up to 512B)
• Hardware-based security with secured boot (on certain models)

4. Working Principle

The MSN3420-CB2F operates as a high-speed leaf or ToR network switch, utilizing the Spectrum-2 ASIC to process packets in cut-through mode for minimal latency. It supports layer 2 and layer 3 forwarding, VXLAN overlay networks, and advanced quality of service (QoS) mechanisms. The fully shared packet buffer ensures fair bandwidth allocation and prevents congestion, making it ideal for bursty and high-throughput applications like AI, machine learning, and storage networking.

5. Applications & Usage

• Data Center Leaf/ToR Switching
• Cloud and Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI)
• High-Performance Computing (HPC) and AI Clusters
• Storage Fabrics (NVMe-oF, iSCSI)
• Enterprise Campus and Core Networking
• Media and Entertainment Workflows

6. Technical Specifications

7. Advantages & Selling Points

• Superior performance with Spectrum-2 ASIC and low latency design
• Open networking support avoids vendor lock-in
• Rich telemetry for real-time monitoring and troubleshooting
• High port density with flexible speed support from 1G to 100G
• Robust hardware design with redundant power and cooling
• Ideal for RoCE and GPUDirect-driven applications

8. Service & Support

All NVIDIA SN3000 series switches come with a 1-year limited hardware warranty. Optional service upgrades include next-business-day advance replacement and 4-hour technical dispatch. NVIDIA also offers professional services for installation, configuration, and remote monitoring. This particular network switch is backed by a global support network and comprehensive online resources.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What operating systems are supported on the MSN3420-CB2F?
A: It supports NVIDIA Onyx (pre-installed), Cumulus Linux, and any ONIE-compatible NOS.

Q: Can the QSFP28 ports be split into lower-speed connections?
A: Yes, each 100GbE QSFP28 port can be split into 4x 25GbE or 2x 50GbE connections using breakout cables.

Q: Is this switch suitable for NVMe over Fabrics (NVMe-oF)?
A: Yes, it supports RoCEv2 for low-latency NVMe-oF deployments.

Q: What is the power consumption?
A: Typical power consumption is under 300W; exact values depend on configuration and utilization.

10. Precautions

• Ensure compatible transceivers and cables are used as per NVIDIA compatibility matrix.
• Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C; humidity: 5% to 85% non-condensing.
• Complies with safety standards: CE, FCC, RoHS, and others.
• Use ESD protection during installation and handling.
• Verify airflow direction (P2C or C2P) matches data center cooling design.

11. Company Introduction

With over a decade of industry experience, we operate a large-scale facility supported by a strong technical team. We have built a vast customer base and extensive expertise, enabling us to offer competitive pricing and high-quality service. We are authorized distributors for leading brands including Mellanox (NVIDIA), Ruckus, Aruba, and Extreme. Our product portfolio includes brand-new original network switches, network adapters, wireless access points, wireless controllers, and cables.

We maintain an inventory valued over $10 million, ensuring ample selection and bulk supply capabilities. Upon confirmed delivery, we provide 24/7 customer consultation and technical support. Our professional sales and engineering teams have earned a strong reputation in global markets.