Non−Volatile RAM (NVRAM), PCMCIA Flash, and WIC.

♦Input/Output (I/O) Buses allow the M68360 to individually control other devices through the SCCs. These include Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART), the Ethernet controller, and the WAN port interface.

∙UART is an SCC integrated on the M68360. It provides the necessary user interface. It has one RS232 port, and a data communications equipment (DCE) (console) RJ45. Note: UART has no Auxiliary (data terminal equipment − DTE) port. Higher console speeds (upto 115.2 Kbps) are supported. The downloading of Cisco IOS software images over the console port is supported using xmodem or ymodem.

∙WAN interface cards (WICs) are media−specific network interfaces responsible for data transfer in and out of the 160x series router. WICs communicate with the CPU through the CPU Bus for packet transfer. Specialized Controllers (or application−specific integrated circuits − ASICs) used for media support perform the above−mentioned functionality. WICs do not support Online Insertion and Removal (OIR).

∙Power supply provides power to various components of the router.

Memory Details

Different kinds of memory reside in the Cisco 1600 Series router, and each of them is handled in a different way and for different purposes.

DRAM is logically divided in Main Processor memory and Shared Input/Output (I/O) memory.

∙Main Processor memory is used to store routing tables, fast switching cache, running configuration, and so on. It can take unused shared I/O memory, if needed.

∙Shared I/O memory is used for temporary storage of packets in system buffers during process switching, and interface buffers during fast switching. Cisco 1600 series routers running Cisco IOS software versions prior to the integration of CSCdk40685 have a fixed I/O memory of 512 KB. (To see details about this bug, go to the Bug Toolkit and type in CSCdk40685). After CSCdk40685, if the router has enough memory, it allocates 25% to I/O memory. If not, I/O memory remains at 512 KB.

The way DRAM memory is distributed can be seen using the show memory summary command:

Router−1600#show memory summary

 

 

 

 

 

Head

Total(b)

Used(b)

Free(b)

Lowest(b)

Largest(b)

Processor

20B3A7C

13419908

2334632

11085276

10907924

10907920

I/O

2D80000

4718592

247324

4471268

4466128

4464852

Physically, DRAM is a combination of 2 MB on−board non−parity chips, and one Single In−line Memory

Cisco 1600 Series Router Architecture

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Cisco Systems manual Memory Details, Router−1600#show memory summary
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1600 specifications

Cisco Systems 1600 series routers are well-regarded in the networking industry for their reliability, versatility, and performance. Designed to meet the needs of small to medium-sized businesses, the Cisco 1600 series is primarily oriented towards providing robust connectivity for branch offices and remote sites.

One of the most significant features of the Cisco 1600 series is its modular architecture. This allows users to customize their routers with various interface cards, enabling support for different types of WAN technologies, including serial, ISDN, and Frame Relay. The modular design not only enhances flexibility but also extends the lifespan of the equipment, as businesses can upgrade their capacity and functionalities according to evolving demands.

Another key characteristic of the Cisco 1600 routers is their advanced routing capabilities. These devices support a wide range of routing protocols, including RIP, OSPF, EIGRP, and BGP. This versatility ensures seamless integration into existing network infrastructures, facilitating the scalability and adaptability that modern networks require.

Security is also a crucial aspect of the Cisco 1600 series. Incorporating features such as access control lists (ACLs) and support for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), these routers help businesses safeguard their sensitive data during transmission. Enhanced security features allow companies to implement secure remote access for employees, thereby maintaining productivity without compromising safety.

In addition to routing and security, the Cisco 1600 series boasts Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities. This technology enables better management of network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need for optimal performance. By prioritizing important data flows, businesses can enhance user experience and minimize disruptions across their network.

The Cisco 1600 series routers are also equipped with user-friendly interfaces and management tools. Cisco's IOS software platform provides a command-line interface (CLI) and web-based graphical interface for straightforward configuration and monitoring. This simplifies network management tasks and reduces the learning curve for IT personnel.

In summary, the Cisco Systems 1600 series routers offer a significant combination of modularity, robust routing protocols, enhanced security measures, Quality of Service features, and user-friendly management options. These characteristics make them an excellent choice for small to medium-sized enterprises looking to establish a reliable and secure networking infrastructure. With the continued evolution of networking technologies, the Cisco 1600 series stands as a dependable solution for businesses navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape.
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