Cisco ASR5K-BLNK-FR Front Blanking Panel for ASR 5000

ASR5K-BLNK-FR Front-Slot Identity

ASR5K-BLNK-FR is the Cisco ASR 5000 front blanking panel. It covers an unused front-loading application-card opening and is physically and operationally distinct from both rear line-card filler PIDs.

Front application-card location

Confirm the target is one of the chassis front-loading application-card positions, not a rear line-card slot or fan-bay cover. Record the slot number and the application card that was removed or reserved. Cisco's chassis layout separates front application cards from the rear line-card cage, so location is the primary fit gate.

Required slot coverage

Cisco instructs operators to install blanking panels over unused slots to preserve ventilation and reduce electrical hazard. Place this panel promptly after removing a front application card; do not operate the chassis for an extended period with the opening uncovered.

Front-panel installation

Follow ESD precautions, position the panel over the unused front slot and tighten its top and bottom retaining screws. Verify that it sits flush, does not obstruct adjacent card ejector levers or status visibility, and leaves no gap that bypasses the designed airflow path.

Operational follow-up

Check fan, temperature and chassis alarms after the maintenance window. Update the physical slot plan and spare inventory with the exact front-panel PID. If a card will later return to the slot, retain its configuration, compatibility evidence and a removal procedure for this filler.

Passive accessory boundary

This panel has no electronics, software, management interface or processing capacity. Cisco includes ASR5K-BLNK-FR in the ASR 5000 EOL notice. The item does not include an application card, rear filler, chassis bezel, tools, support or installation service.

Official Cisco references: Exact front blanking-panel PID and Front application-card and unused-slot coverage procedure.