Cisco Cisco Ucsc C240 M5Sx C240 M5 Server Chassis — High-Performance Data Center Rack Server (Cisco)

How Much Does Cisco UCSC-C240-M5SX C240 M5 Server Chassis Cost in 2026?

As of July 2026, the Cisco UCSC-C240-M5SX C240 M5 Server Chassis is priced in the range of $331, with refurbished units typically falling within this bracket. Refurbished units from vendors like Axus Technology and Covalent Materials are commonly available at this price point, offering a 40–60% cost savings compared to new units, which can exceed $800. The price remains stable due to consistent demand from data centers and cloud service providers.

It's important to note that the cost of failure for a defective chassis can be significant. A single failure can lead to system downtime, which in a data center setting can cost upwards of $10,000 per hour. Units in condition grade B are generally acceptable for non-critical applications, but for mission-critical use, a higher-grade unit is recommended. Always verify the unit's condition and test logs before purchase to avoid unexpected costs.

Cisco UCSC-C240-M5SX C240 M5 Server Chassis Specifications and Compatible Tools

The Cisco UCSC-C240-M5SX is a 2U rack server chassis designed for high-density computing environments. It supports up to two Intel Xeon Scalable processors, typically with 36 cores per socket, and can accommodate up to 3 TB of DDR4 memory. The chassis features 10 hot-swappable drive bays and supports both SAS and NVMe storage drives. It has a typical MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) of 150,000 hours, which is common for enterprise-grade servers.

This chassis is compatible with Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) tools such as the Cisco UCS Manager (2019–2024 versions) and Cisco UCS Central (2020–2025). However, it is not compatible with the Cisco UCS C240 M5SX-R1, which has a different backplane design. Using an incompatible tool can lead to configuration errors and system instability, potentially causing a full rack outage.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Cisco UCSC-C240-M5SX C240 M5 Server Chassis in 2026

1. Production Year: Ensure the unit was manufactured between 2020 and 2023. Older units may have outdated components or be past their lifecycle support.

2. Power Supply Test: Use a power supply tester to verify that all PSUs function within the 110–240V range. A failed PSU can cause a complete system shutdown, costing up to $5,000 in downtime.

3. Drive Slot Integrity: Inspect all 10 drive bays for physical damage or wear. A damaged slot can prevent drive installation or cause data corruption.

4. Firmware Version: Confirm the firmware is at least version 3.1.1. Older versions may lack critical security patches and can be a liability in regulated environments.

5. Reject If: The chassis has been exposed to water or has visible signs of corrosion. Such damage is often irreversible and can lead to premature failure.

Always request a full test report and serial number verification. A poorly maintained chassis can fail within 6–12 months, leading to unplanned maintenance and lost productivity.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the Cisco UCSC-C240-M5SX with a Cisco UCS C240 M5SX-R1 backplane?

A: No. The UCSC-C240-M5SX is not compatible with the C240 M5SX-R1 backplane due to differences in the midplane design. Attempting to use them together can result in a system failure and require up to $3,000 in repair costs.

Q: Should I buy a used Cisco UCSC-C240-M5SX if I need it for a mission-critical application?

A: It's not recommended unless the unit is in condition grade A and has a full warranty. For mission-critical use, a used chassis in grade B or lower can fail within 6–12 months, leading to significant downtime costs.

Q: How long can I expect a used Cisco UCSC-C240-M5SX to last with proper maintenance?

A: With regular firmware updates and component checks, a used chassis can last 5–7 years. However, if not maintained, it may fail within 2–3 years, especially if the MTBF is below 120,000 hours.

Q: What is the difference between the Cisco UCSC-C240-M5SX and the Cisco UCS C240 M5SX?

A: The UCSC-C240-M5SX is part of the Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) line, while the C240 M5SX is a standalone server. The UCSC version includes UCS-specific features like integrated management and compatibility with Cisco UCS Manager, which are not available in the standalone model.

Q: What is the typical lead time for a used Cisco UCSC-C240-M5SX in 2026?

A: Lead times are typically 2–4 weeks after sourcing, depending on the vendor and availability. Units from Axus Technology or Covalent Materials usually ship within 3 weeks.