Use this FAQ when an RFQ mixes powered campus access with data-center leaf language. Keep the classes on separate shortlists.
When should I choose a campus PoE switch instead of a data-center leaf?
Choose campus PoE/Multi-GE access when you need powered copper for APs, phones, or cameras. Choose a data-center leaf when you need high-speed server optics and fabric uplinks without PoE.
Can one RFQ cover both PoE closet switches and leaf/TOR switches?
It can, but only if you split line items by role. Otherwise vendors will guess class from “48-port” and return mismatched PIDs. State PoE vs Non-PoE and copper vs optic explicitly.
Which example models belong on a campus PoE shortlist?
Examples already on QianliSwitch: C9300-24P, C9300-48P-A, S5732-H48UM2CC, RG-S5315-24MG6XS-UP-E, S5048PV5-EI-PWR.
Which example models belong on a leaf/TOR shortlist?
Examples: N9K-C93180YC-FX3, CE6855-48XS8CQ, RG-S7810C (confirm module/faceplate for chassis-class capacity SKUs).
Where do C9500 and S7712 fit?
They are campus core / aggregation class—not closet PoE access and not TOR leaf substitutes. See C9500-40X-A and S7712.
What should I read next?
Class selection article · Leaf buying guide · C9300-24P vs C9300-48P-A.