CISCO STACK-T3 50 cm Stack Cable – For Catalyst 9300/9300L Series Switches

Introduction

In high-speed enterprise switching environments, maintaining efficient stack connectivity is critical. The Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm stack cable is a purpose-designed, 0.5-metre Type 3 stacking cable engineered for the Catalyst 9300 / 9300L Series switches. By optimizing reach and density within rack setups, it supports the full StackWise-320 bandwidth capability while ensuring clean, effective cabling between adjacent stack units.

What is Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm?

The Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm is a short-reach stacking cable (approx. 0.5 m / 50 cm) with part number STACK-T3-50CM, designed specifically for use with Cisco Catalyst 9300L and 9300LM Series switches, within their StackWise-320 architecture.
It forms part of the stacking accessory kit that includes two stack adapters and the stacking cable, allowing the devices to act as a single logical switch.

Technical Specifications & Features

• Cable length: approx. 0.5 metres (50 cm / 1.64 ft).

• Type: Type 3 Stacking Cable (STACK-T3 series) for Catalyst 9300L/LM Series.

• Maximum stack bandwidth support: Up to 320 Gbps for StackWise-320 when used in compatible Catalyst 9300L stack, contributing to high-density, low-latency switching.

• Minimum bend radius: 1.6 inches (41 mm) for 50 cm cable.

• Halogen-free construction: Cisco stacking cables are halogen-free for safety compliance.

• Compatibility: Suited for stacking adjacent switches in the same rack or very close proximity, optimizing cabling layout and airflow.

Benefits of Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm

• Optimized Rack Density: The 0.5 m length is ideal when stacking switches within the same rack, minimizing excess cable slack and maintaining neat cable management.

• High-Performance Stack Throughput: With support for StackWise-320 up to 320 Gbps, the Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm enables high-speed inter-switch communication, ensuring the stack functions as a unified device.

• Reliable Cisco Ecosystem Integration: Designed for seamless compatibility with Cisco Catalyst 9300L/LM models, reducing configuration inconsistencies and compatibility issues.

• Safety & Compliance: Halogen-free cable construction ensures suitability for enterprise environments with strict fire-safety requirements.

• Simplified Deployment: Pre-terminated and factory-tested, the Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm enables quick installation and stable stack formation.

Applications & Use Cases

• Enterprise Campus Switch Stacking: Linking multiple Catalyst 9300L switches in a stack to act as one logical switch, ideal for enterprise access layers.

• Data Center Access or Distribution Layers: Short-reach stacking among adjacent switch units where high throughput and minimal latency are required.

• Rack-Mounted High-Density Deployments: Optimizing short cable runs between adjacent switches to maintain tidy layout and efficient airflow.

• Upgrade or Expansion Scenarios: When upgrading existing Catalyst 9300L infrastructure, replacing standard copper stacking cables with Cisco’s Type 3 short-reach cable for improved performance and space efficiency.

Selection Considerations

When selecting the Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm, keep the following in mind:

• Ensure your switch model is among Catalyst 9300L or 9300LM Series and supports StackWise-320 via the C9300L-STACK-KIT.

• Confirm that the stacking setup places the cabled units within adjacent rack positions or in close proximity such that 0.5 m is sufficient and cable length doesn’t stress the connections.

• Maintain proper cable bend radius (minimum 41 mm) to avoid signal degradation.

• Consider airflow and cable management—short stacking cables like Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm help reduce clutter and improve rack cooling efficiency.

Installation & Best Practices

• Power down or place in maintenance mode the stack members during cable installation to avoid stack topology interruptions.

• Connect one end of the Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm cable to the stack port of the first switch and the other end to the stack port of the adjacent switch, ensuring the boot and latch are securely seated.

• After cable installation, verify stack status in the switch’s CLI or GUI to ensure the stack is formed and operating at the expected bandwidth.

• Label the stacking link and keep cable paths tidy to avoid accidental disconnections during rack maintenance.

• Ensure the stack cable is not bundled tightly with power cables or subject to mechanical stress, which might affect signal integrity over time.

Environmental & Safety Compliance

The Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm is built to enterprise standards and is listed in Cisco’s connector and cable specifications documentation. All Cisco stacking cables are halogen-free, supporting safe deployment in environments with strict fire codes. It meets the mechanical specifications for bend radius and coiled diameter, as noted in the official spec table.

Conclusion

The Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm Stack Cable is an essential accessory for high-density stacking of Catalyst 9300L/LM switches. With its compact 0.5 m length, high stack throughput capability, and full integration into Cisco’s StackWise-320 architecture, this cable ensures your switch stack operates as a unified, high-performance system. If you’re designing or upgrading network access layers in enterprise or data-centre environments, the Cisco STACK-T3 50 cm provides both the performance and physical layout advantages to keep your stack resilient, efficient, and manageable.