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What Exactly is "Refurbished" Network Hardware?

What Exactly is "Refurbished" Network Hardware?

We are often asked this by prospective customers. Is it simply a slick way to say it's "used" hardware? Actually no. In a nutshell, all refurbished hardware is used, but not all used hardware is refurbished. Let us explain. When we say that we sell refurbished hardware (in addition to NEW), it means that we (not the manufacturer, which is sometimes the case) have taken used hardware, and run it through a well-defined process to ensure that it is functionally as good as new, is cosmetically acceptable, and is complete and ready for use. In the case of Terabit Systems, it never means that we start with network hardware that is defective or needs board-level repairs. Rather it's an item that was in-use, and was simply decommissioned. We then subject it to the following process, after which it is considered "refurbished."

1) Physical inspection:

Each item is carefully inspected to see if there are any physical issues with the item that would affect functionality. At this stage we are inspecting things like connectors, heat-sinks, capacitors, faceplates, buttons, latches etc. Some items are rejected outright at this stage, and removed from the product pool (sent to eCycling)

2) Functional testing:

At this stage equipment is run through testing applicable to its type. Switches are run through their power-on-self-test (POST), and checked for errors. Log files are checked, fans and power supplies are tested, and port testing is begun. Traffic is passed through all ports, and 10Gbe ports are tested at wire speed by putting the device on our test network, which utilizes state of the art LANforge traffic generator (full 10Gbs). Whenever possible, built-in diagnostic commands are executed. Modules are run in chassis, and again, checked for normal function. Optical transceivers all have traffic passed through them.

3) Factory defaults:

Units are restored to factory default settings. All passwords and configurations removed, and firmware is updated when a version with known bugs is encountered. The equipment is made ready to use out of the box, just like it would be if new from the manufacturer.

4) Cosmetic refurbishment:

Equipment that has passed the first 3 stages is cleaned where applicable to make a positive impression on the customer. Some items may go through chassis repainting if significant scratches are present. Fans, heat sinks, and components are blown off to remove dust.

5) Final QC and kitting:

Items passing the first four steps are given a final QC check, kitted out with any applicable accessories (rack mounts, power cord, console cable, PDF’s etc), and sent into finished goods inventory to be made available for sale. Once ordered, product is pulled and professionally packed for safe transit using the best methods and materials available. Our process is continually being refined and improved, and the net result is we actually have a defect rate that is lower than most original manufacturer themselves (to date it is ~ 0.04%, or 1 defect per 2,500 pieces shipped) At first that may sound impossible, but think about it. Most hardware that is going to have an issue of some type will have it within the first 100 days of operation. The refurbished network hardware we resell has come out of service after running error-free for 2-4 years in a data center. It is then re-tested with our process. End result: it will be obsolete before it fails.

We are passionate about the quality of the refurbished data network hardware we resell! Contact Us if you have questions or need a quote.

May 26, 2016