Cisco ASR5K-PSC-32G-K9 32GB PSC2 Packet Services Card for ASR 5000

ASR5K-PSC-32G-K9 PSC2 Architecture

ASR5K-PSC-32G-K9 is Cisco's 32GB second-generation Packet Services Card, or PSC2, for the ASR 5000. Cisco documents two quad-core 2.5GHz x86 processors, 32GB of memory and a dedicated security processor for cryptographic acceleration. It superseded the 16GB PSCA but is itself part of a legacy ASR 5000 lifecycle.

Capacity and generation difference

Cisco describes PSC2 as providing approximately 2 to 2.7 times the throughput of the original PSC and twice the switch-fabric interface capacity. Validate those platform-level characteristics against the actual chassis, StarOS release, service mix and redundancy design; they are not a promise of application throughput for every deployment.

Card-set compatibility

Inventory every packet-services card in the chassis before purchase. Cisco advises that PSC2 should not be mixed with PSC3 because the generations differ in processor architecture and memory configuration. Confirm the supported active/standby card arrangement, slot rules, release compatibility and upgrade sequence using the documentation for the installed system.

Memory health evidence

For an existing PSC2, collect card inventory and memory diagnostics before declaring a replacement necessary. Review memory health, alarms, crash or reset history and the Cisco `show card` outputs applicable to the running release. For a replacement card, verify that the platform reports the expected 32GB PSC2 identity and complete a monitored load or service test.

Security-processing acceptance

The dedicated security processor is part of the PSC2 architecture, but cryptographic function still depends on the platform configuration, software and licensed services. After installation, test the relevant secured traffic path, counters and alarms rather than assuming that card detection alone proves service operation.

Lifecycle and migration planning

Cisco's ASR 5000 platform lifecycle notice includes ASR5K-PSC-32G-K9. Record hardware provenance, revision and supportability for legacy stock, and pair any repair with a migration plan. This SKU supplies one PSC2 card only; it does not include a chassis, PSC3, software licenses, support or professional migration services.

Official Cisco sources: PSC2 architecture and generation rules, PSC2 performance and fabric overview, PSC2 memory identification and diagnostics and Exact PSC2 PID lifecycle record.