If you only rack and hope, you will rework. Run this list on the bench (or in receiving) before a device goes into a production rack. Every line exists because it has failed someone in the field.
A. Identity — does the box match the job?
- Model / PID matches the change ticket and BOM (e.g.
C9300-48P vs C9300-48U).
- Serial numbers recorded in your asset system before the unit leaves the dock.
- Power supply type and count correct (AC/DC, front/rear, dual PSU for the role).
- Modules, network modules, stacking kits, and rack ears present and undamaged.
- Rails/ears match the rack standard (2-post vs 4-post).
B. Power and environment
- Circuit capacity vs load — especially full PoE budgets on access switches (48× PoE+ is not a "small" draw).
- PDU plug type matches PSU cords; redundant PSUs on separate PDUs/circuits when design requires it.
- Rack position: airflow direction matches hot/cold aisle; heavy chassis on proper rails.
- Console cable + known-good terminal profile tested on the bench (9600 8N1 unless platform docs say otherwise).
C. Optics and cabling (the silent killers)
- Optic part numbers match distance and fiber type (OM3/OM4 vs OS2; SR vs LR).
- Same optic class both ends of a link when required by the platform.
- DAC/AOC length actually reaches; do not stretch.
- Labels on both ends written before the cable disappears into a bundle.
- Spare optics for critical uplinks staged with the install kit.
D. Software and licensing — power up off the rack
- Bench power-on; confirm POST and fans normal.
- Record current software version; compare to your approved baseline.
- Upgrade on the bench when possible — never discover a multi-hour upgrade in a maintenance window.
- Confirm license state (
show license / smart licensing / traditional PAKs as applicable). A "dead" feature is often an unactivated entitlement.
- If RMA or used/refurb: verify serial and support eligibility against your process.
E. Configuration staging
- Load the intended baseline (hostname, mgmt, AAA/SSH, VLANs, uplinks) before racking when the design allows.
- Keep a golden config template per site role (access / distribution / OOB).
- Document the management IP and credentials in the change ticket before cutover night.
- For stacks: set member numbers and priorities on the bench; cable the stack ring; confirm
show switch.
F. Day-of install quick gate
- Photo of rack position before and after.
- Uplinks connected and up before mass access cabling.
- Management reachable from the NOC path.
copy run start and off-box backup.- Change ticket updated with serials and final hostname.
Nettech can ship units pre-staged with your baseline config and optics validated. Talk to staging · Browse in-stock gear