Exhaust fans cool power supplies. System fans cool switches by drawing in air and exhausting air out through various openings in the chassis. Fans also introduce dust and other particles, causing contaminant buildup in the switch and increased internal chassis temperature. Dust and particles can act as insulators and interfere with the mechanical components in the switch. Keep a clean operating environment to reduce the negative effects of dust and other particles.

In addition to keeping your environment free of dust and particles, use these precautions to avoid contamination of your switch:

• Do not smoke near the switch.

• Do not eat or drink near the switch.