Replace VS-SUP2T-10G in a WS-C6509-E

[david.carter]

We need to replace a VS-SUP2T-10G supervisor engine in a WS-C6509-E. The 6500 has only one supervisor engine so we will obviously need some downtime. We have no test 6500 to install the replacement  supervisor engine to and put on the correct IOS and config in advance of the replacement. Looking for some advice as to the best process to carry out the replacement.

[Leo Laohoo]

Does the Sup2T have an external CF installed?
Copy the IOS and the config into there and insert it into the new/replacement Sup2T.

[david.carter]

Thanks for the reply Leo.

unfortunately no CF installed. Could we do the equivalent using a usb stick?

also a concern is that the new supervisor will have a different IOS when it first boots and won't this mean it will upgrade the line cards without us having a chance to put on the IOS version from the existing supervisor?

[Leo Laohoo]

I am not certain if USB port is enabled. TAC will probably know. If they don't, ask them to verify if for you;
If TAC confirms USB port isn't enabled, then you'll need to find/source a compatible CF and use that.
Has the Sup2T card shipped out yet? If it hasn't then tell TAC to load the IOS version you want.
Otherwise, whatever method (USB or CF), you will need to "interrupt" the boot-up process and instruct the Sup2T to boot the IOS you want.

[Reza Sharifi]

Leo/David,

USB does not work on Sup-2T. The best way is to have TAC load whatever IOS you want before shipping it.

HTH

[Leo Laohoo]

Alright. Reza has "called it": USB port is not enabled.  (Thanks for the confirmatin, Reza.)
Plan "B" and tell TAC to load the IOS version you want (and pray they did).

[Reza Sharifi]

No problem Leo. Hope all is well.

I never understood why Cisco put USB ports on these sups but it can't be used for loading IOS or any other file (useless). 

Thanks!

Reza