Description
Cisco 16-Port Async Serial NIM for Cisco 4000 Series ISRs
The Cisco 16-Port Async Serial Network Interface Module (NIM) delivers high-density terminal server functionality for Cisco 4000 Series Integrated Services Routers (ISRs). Specifically engineered to meet the demands of modern networks that rely on robust serial connectivity, this Async Serial NIM provides 16 independent ports that can support a large fleet of terminal server sessions from a single platform. With up to 200 terminal server connections on one Cisco ISR platform—eight more than the ISR G2—this module is ideal for data centers, enterprise networks, and service providers managing numerous serial devices, console access points, and out-of-band management channels. The 16-port design reduces cable clutter, simplifies centralized management, and enables scalable, reliable serial connectivity without requiring additional chassis or complex network reconfigurations. Built for Cisco IOS-based environments, the Async Serial NIM blends seamlessly with existing routers, offering consistent performance, predictable latency, and straightforward deployment for mission-critical serial tasks.
- High-Density Serial Ports: The Cisco 16-Port Async Serial NIM provides 16 asynchronous serial ports, enabling scalable terminal server deployments on Cisco 4000 Series ISRs. With support for up to 200 terminal server connections per platform, this module delivers substantial capacity in a compact footprint—eight more connections than the ISR G2. This density reduces hardware sprawl while delivering reliable, stable performance for large-scale console access and serial device management across distributed networks. The module is optimized for rapid provisioning and straightforward port mapping, helping IT teams accelerate deployments and streamline ongoing maintenance.
- Seamless Cisco ISR Integration: Designed specifically for Cisco 4000 Series Integrated Services Routers, the Async Serial NIM integrates with Cisco IOS to provide consistent configuration, monitoring, and control of serial sessions. Its hot-swappable design minimizes downtime during installation or upgrades, allowing maintenance to occur without a full router reboot. This tight integration ensures compatibility with Cisco features and policies, enabling administrators to apply familiar IOS-based commands, access control, and logging to manage serial connections just as they do other interfaces in their network.
- Flexible Cabling and Port Flexibility: Each of the 16 ports supports asynchronous serial interfaces commonly used by terminal servers, console servers, and legacy devices. The module accommodates a range of baud rates and signaling standards, enabling compatibility with diverse equipment while ensuring robust error handling and session stability. The flexible port configuration supports varied terminal devices across multiple sites, helping organizations consolidate serial access points without compromising performance or reliability.
- Comprehensive Management and Security: The 16-Port Async Serial NIM integrates with Cisco IOS-based management, enabling centralized configuration, monitoring, and control of serial connections. Network administrators can leverage standard management protocols and Cisco security features to monitor port status, error counters, and session health. Centralized logging, event alerts, and SNMP-based monitoring help maintain operational visibility and rapid incident response for serial environments that require stringent management and security controls.
- Deployment, Reliability, and Maintenance Benefits: The module’s design emphasizes simplicity and reliability in demanding environments. Its compact form factor minimizes rack space while delivering essential serial connectivity. The hot-swappable nature of the NIM supports maintenance and upgrades without interrupting critical services, reducing mean time to repair and downtime. Quick deployment is aided by straightforward installation, plug-and-play registration with supported Cisco ISR 4000 platforms, and streamlined port assignment, enabling IT teams to scale serial capabilities quickly as network needs evolve.
Technical Details of Cisco 16-Port Async Serial NIM
- Get this information from the "specifications" section of the product from https://ec.synnex.com/ using product "UPC" or "SKU" as reference
How to install Cisco 16-Port Async Serial NIM
Installing the Cisco 16-Port Async Serial NIM on a Cisco 4000 Series ISR is designed to be straightforward and minimally disruptive. Follow these general guidelines to ensure a smooth deployment within a supported Cisco IOS environment.
- Verify compatibility: Confirm that your router model is a Cisco 4000 Series ISR and that the chassis has an available NIM slot compatible with Async Serial modules. Check software requirements to ensure IOS or IOS XE supports the NIM in your network design.
- Prepare for installation: Plan a maintenance window if possible. While the NIM is hot-swappable, coordinate changes to minimize impact on active sessions. Gather the necessary serial cables, labeling tools, and device inventories to map each port to its intended terminal server or console device.
- Install the module: Power down only if the router design requires it, or use hot-swap procedures if supported by your hardware. Insert the 16-Port Async Serial NIM firmly into the designated slot until it seats completely. Secure any latches or screws as required by the chassis design, then reseat the router cover if it was removed.
- Power on and verify: Reconnect power if needed and verify that the NIM is recognized by the Cisco IOS. Use show commands to confirm port presence and status, such as a quick check of interface listings for the 16 serial ports.
- Configure and map ports: In the IOS configuration, assign each of the 16 ports to the appropriate terminal server connections. Define baud rates, parity, stop bits, and any device-specific parameters as required by your serial devices. Implement access control, port mappings, and session policies to ensure secure and reliable console access.
- Test and monitor: Initiate test sessions to validate connectivity for each terminal server connection. Monitor port status, error counters, and performance metrics using CLI or SNMP-based tools to ensure stable operation under expected loads.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the Cisco 16-Port Async Serial NIM? It is a high-density asynchronous interface module for Cisco 4000 Series ISRs that provides 16 serial ports for terminal server connections, enabling scalable management of serial devices from a single platform.
- How many terminal server connections can be supported? Up to 200 terminal server connections on a single Cisco ISR 4000 platform—eight more than the Cisco ISR G2.
- Is the module hot-swappable? Yes. The NIM is designed for hot-swappable installation, allowing maintenance and upgrades without powering down the router where supported.
- What management features are supported? The module integrates with Cisco IOS-based management, enabling configuration, monitoring, and control of serial sessions. It supports standard network management workflows and visibility through SNMP and logging in supported environments.
- What devices can connect to the 16 ports? The 16 ports accommodate asynchronous serial devices such as terminal servers, console servers, and legacy equipment that use standard serial interfaces.
Customer reviews
Showing - Of Reviews