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Cisco ASA 5500 Series Hardware Installation Guide
OL-10089-01
Chapter 1 Preparing for Installation
General Site Requirements
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Ensure that the chassis top panel is secure. The chassis is designed to allow cooling air to flow
effectively within it. An open chassis allows air leaks, which may interrupt and redirect the flow of
cooling air from the internal components.
Power Supply Considerations
The following chassis models can have either an AC or DC power supply: ASA 5505, ASA 5510,
ASA 5520, ASA 5540 and ASA 5550.
Observe the following considerations:
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Check the power at the site before installing the chassis to ensure that the power is “clean” (free of
spikes and noise). Install a power conditioner if necessary, to ensure proper voltages and power
levels in the source voltage.
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Install proper grounding for the site to avoid damage from lightning and power surges.
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In a chassis equipped with an AC-input power supply, use the following guidelines:
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The chassis does not have a user-selectable operating range. Refer to the label on the chassis for
the correct AC-input power requirement.
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Several styles of AC-input power supply cords are available; make sure you have the correct
style for your site.
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Install an uninterruptible power source for your site, if possible.
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Install proper site grounding facilities to guard against damage from lightning or power surges.
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In a chassis equipped with a DC-input power supply, use the following guidelines:
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Each DC-input power supply requires dedicated 15 amp service.
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For DC power cables, it is recommend to use a minimum of 14 AWG wire cable.
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The DC return connection to this system is to remain isolated from the system frame and
chassis.
Configuring Equipment Racks
The following tips help you plan an acceptable equipment rack configuration:
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Enclosed racks must have adequate ventilation. Ensure that the rack is not overly congested, because
each chassis generates heat. An enclosed rack should have louvered sides and a fan to provide
cooling air.
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When mounting a chassis in an open rack, ensure that the rack frame does not block the intake or
exhaust ports. If the chassis is installed on slides, check the position of the chassis when it is seated
all the way into the rack.
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In an enclosed rack with a ventilation fan in the top, excessive heat generated by equipment near the
bottom of the rack can be drawn upward and into the intake ports of the equipment above it in the
rack. Ensure that you provide adequate ventilation for equipment at the bottom of the rack.
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Baffles can help to isolate exhaust air from intake air, which also helps to draw cooling air through
the chassis. The best placement of the baffles depends on the airflow patterns in the rack.
Experiment with different arrangements to position the baffles effectively.
