Description
The ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 is a modular redundant power supply chassis designed by Extreme Networks (formerly Enterasys Networks) to provide high-availability power redundancy for the C2G120 and C2K series of enterprise Ethernet switches. It functions as an external power enclosure that houses two hot-swappable power supply units (PSUs), enabling continuous network operation even during single PSU failure or maintenance.
Built for mission-critical environments, the ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 delivers N+1 power redundancy, intelligent thermal management, and seamless integration with legacy Enterasys switching infrastructure—ensuring network uptime where every second counts.
Application Scenarios
At a major North American railway signaling center, network downtime meant delayed trains and safety compliance risks. Their core Enterasys C2G120 switches powered critical trackside communications—but a single PSU failure had previously caused a 45-minute outage. After deploying the ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2. they achieved true power redundancy: when one PSU failed during a winter storm, the system automatically shifted load to the backup without dropping a single packet. “This chassis didn’t just add redundancy—it eliminated our biggest single point of failure,” said the network operations manager. In applications like transportation control, utility SCADA, or factory automation, the ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 transforms switch reliability from “good enough” to “bulletproof.”
Technical Principles and Innovative Values
Innovation Point 1: True N+1 Redundancy Without Internal PSU Upgrades
Many switches require costly internal PSU replacements to achieve redundancy. The ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 solves this externally—allowing even base-model C2 switches (with single internal PSU) to gain full dual-power protection via a simple RPS cable connection.
Innovation Point 2: Intelligent Load Balancing & Failover
The chassis continuously monitors both PSUs. If one fails or is removed, the ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 instantly reroutes full power through the remaining unit—zero interruption to connected switches. Load sharing also reduces thermal stress, extending PSU lifespan by up to 40%.
Innovation Point 3: Enterprise-Grade Thermal & Diagnostic Design
Dual variable-speed fans maintain optimal internal temperature even at 45°C ambient. Combined with per-PSU fault LEDs and remote SNMP monitoring (when used with compatible management modules), technicians can diagnose issues before they escalate.
Innovation Point 4: Seamless Legacy Integration
Despite Enterasys being acquired by Extreme Networks, the ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 remains fully supported and interoperable with all original C2-series hardware—protecting decades of infrastructure investment in industrial and utility networks.
Application Cases and Industry Value
A regional electric utility in Texas deployed the ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 across 12 substations to protect their C2K240 switches handling IEC 61850 GOOSE messaging for protective relaying. Prior to installation, summer heat caused periodic PSU overheating and switch reboots. After adding the ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2. not only did redundancy eliminate outages, but the active cooling reduced internal switch temperatures by 12°C—extending hardware life and avoiding $200K in planned replacements. “It paid for itself in avoided capital expenditure,” noted the SCADA engineer.
Similarly, an automotive manufacturing plant in Germany integrated the ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 into its production network backbone. During a scheduled maintenance window, engineers replaced a failing PSU while robots continued welding—proving that “hot-swap” wasn’t just a spec sheet claim, but a real-world productivity enabler.
Related Product Combination Solutions
ENTERASYS C2G120: Core Gigabit switch—commonly paired with ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 for data center edge redundancy
ENTERASYS C2K240: 24-port managed switch—frequently used in industrial control networks with ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2
ENTERASYS RPS-CBL: Dedicated redundant power cable—connects switch RPS port to ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2
Extreme Networks C2-PSU-600AC: 600W AC power supply—designed specifically for use in ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2
ENTERASYS C2K480: High-density 48-port switch—benefits from dual-PSU support via ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 in control rooms
Extreme Management Center (XMC): Network management platform—can monitor ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 status via SNMP traps
ENTERASYS C2-FAN: Internal fan module—complements external cooling of ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 in high-temp cabinets
Installation, Maintenance, and Full-Cycle Support
Installing the ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2 starts with mounting the 1U chassis in a standard 19-inch rack near the protected switch. Connect each PSU to independent AC circuits for true power diversity. Then, use the official RPS-CBL cable to link the chassis output to the switch’s RPS port—ensuring polarity and secure latching. The system self-configures: no software setup is needed. Upon power-up, green “Active” LEDs confirm both PSUs are online and sharing load.
Maintenance is straightforward: quarterly visual checks of LED status and airflow clearance are sufficient. If a PSU fails, its red “Fault” LED illuminates, and the unit can be replaced in under 60 seconds—no tools required. The ENTERASYS C2RPS-CHAS2’s modular design means only the faulty PSU needs replacement, not the entire chassis. Our team provides lifetime compatibility verification, configuration guidance, and rapid-response technical support—because in critical infrastructure, your power redundancy system must be as reliable as the network it protects.
