Chapter 3 Removing and Installing Port Adapters

Warnings and Cautions

Each PA-2FE has a bus connector that connects it to the router. The connector has a set of tiered pins in three lengths that send specific signals to the system as they make contact with the port adapter. The system assesses the signals it receives and the order in which it receives them to determine if a port adapter is being removed from or introduced to the system. From these signals, the system determines whether to reinitialize a new interface or to shut down a disconnected interface.

Specifically, when you insert a port adapter, the longest pins make contact with the port adapter first, and the shortest pins make contact last. The system recognizes the signals and the sequence in which it receives them.

When you remove or insert a port adapter, the pins send signals to notify the system of changes. The router then performs the following procedure:

1.Rapidly scans the system for configuration changes.

2.Initializes newly inserted port adapters or administratively shuts down any vacant interfaces.

3.Brings all previously configured interfaces on the port adapter back to their previously installed state. Any newly inserted interface is put in the administratively shutdown state, as if it was present (but not configured) at boot time. If a similar port adapter type is reinserted into a slot, its ports are configured and brought online up to the port count of the originally installed port adapter of that type.

Note Before you begin installation, read Chapter 2, “Preparing for Installation,” for a list of parts and tools required for installation.

Warnings and Cautions

Observe the following warnings and cautions when installing or removing port adapters.

Caution Do not slide a port adapter all the way into the slot until you have connected all required cables. Trying to do so disrupts normal operation of the router or switch.

Caution To prevent jamming the carrier between the upper and the lower edges of the port adapter slot, and to ensure that the edge connector at the rear of the port adapter mates with the connection at the rear of the port adapter slot, make certain that the carrier is positioned correctly, as shown in the cutaway illustrations in the “Port Adapter Removal and Installation” section on page 3-4.

Warning During this procedure, wear grounding wrist straps to avoid ESD damage to the card. Do not directly touch the midplane with your hand or any metal tool, or you could shock yourself. Statement 181

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Cisco Systems PA-2FE-FX, PA-2FE-TX manual Removing and Installing Port Adapters

PA-2FE-FX, PA-2FE-TX specifications

Cisco Systems PA-2FE-TX and PA-2FE-FX are high-performance Ethernet interface modules designed to enhance the capabilities of Cisco 2600 and 3600 series routers. They provide businesses with flexible and reliable networking solutions that meet the increasing demand for bandwidth and connectivity.

One of the main features of the PA-2FE-TX module is its ability to support two 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet interfaces. This allows organizations to connect multiple devices while improving network performance. The PA-2FE-FX module, on the other hand, is designed for optical fiber connections. It features two Fast Ethernet interfaces that utilize an SC connector for easier cable management in fiber optic environments. This capability facilitates long-distance data transmission, making it suitable for backbone connections or inter-building links.

Both modules incorporate advanced technologies to ensure efficient data handling. They support Cisco's Auto-Negotiation feature, enabling devices to automatically select the optimal speed and duplex settings, thus simplifying deployment and reducing configuration errors. This functionality is vital in environments with varied device capabilities, allowing seamless communication across the network.

The PA-2FE-TX and PA-2FE-FX modules utilize Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities to prioritize traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth. This is particularly beneficial for VoIP services, video conferencing, and other latency-sensitive applications. Additionally, the modules offer support for VLANs, allowing organizations to segment their networks effectively and enhance security by isolating sensitive data traffic.

Another important characteristic of these modules is their hot-swappable nature, enabling users to replace them without powering down the router, thus minimizing downtime. This feature is critical for businesses that require high availability and reliability from their networking equipment.

In summary, the Cisco Systems PA-2FE-TX and PA-2FE-FX interface modules stand out for their versatility, enabling businesses to implement customized networking solutions tailored to specific needs. With support for both copper and fiber connections, advanced QoS features, and seamless integration into existing Cisco routers, these modules reinforce Cisco’s commitment to providing innovative, robust network solutions that cater to the demands of modern enterprise environments.