Chapter 1 Concepts
EM Objects and Interfaces
Physical Interfaces and Logical Interface Technologies
Physical interfaces and logical interface technologies are modeled as objects below a parent module. As mentioned before, the type of module characterizes the type of interface. Interface types further break down into two categories, physical interfaces and logical interface technologies.
Physical interfaces are the ports which exist on line cards. This EM supports the following physical interfaces:
•Ethernet
•SONET
The EM handles both SDH and SONET in the same manner. The routers support both SDH and SONET. For a comparison chart of SONET and SDH speeds, see Appendix B, “SONET/SDH Conversion Chart.”
Logical interface technologies represent the communication between two network devices. Logical interface technologies allow for virtual connections, such as PVCs and SPVCs. This EM supports the following logical interface technologies:
•ATM
•IP
Physical interfaces and logical interface technologies are classified as ‘‘interfaces’’ within this EM, and, therefore, are referred to as such within this guide. Keep in mind the differences previously described as you manage the interfaces within your network.
Tip The technologies an interface supports are accessible within
The following table outlines each interface type and the applicable physical and logical interface technologies supported. Also included are the different FCAPS service windows that are applicable to each physical and logical interface technology. For example, if you want to configure an ATM interface type, look in the table under ATM, and you will notice that three physical interface and logical interface technologies apply: ATM, SONET, and IP. This means that to fully configure an ATM over SONET interface, for example, you should open and update the appropriate fields in all the physical and logical configuration windows to completely configure a SONET interface which supports ATM technology. Note that the shaded areas denote logical interface technologies.
Cisco Catalyst 8500 Manager User Guide
