Chapter 2 Preparing for Installation

Site Planning

The extent of your network and the distances between the network interface connections depend in part on the following factors:

Signal type

Signal speed

Transmission medium

The distance and rate limits referenced in the following sections are the IEEE-recommended maximum speeds and distances for signaling purposes. Use this information as a guideline in planning your network connections prior to installing the Cisco ASR 903 Router.

If wires exceed the recommended distances, or if wires pass between buildings, give special consideration to the effect of a lightning strike in your vicinity. The electromagnetic pulse caused by lightning or other high-energy phenomena can easily couple enough energy into unshielded conductors to destroy electronic devices. If you have had problems of this sort in the past, you may want to consult experts in electrical surge suppression and shielding.

Asynchronous Terminal Connections

The RSP provides a console port to connect a terminal or computer for local console access. The port has an RJ45 connector and supports RS-232 asynchronous data with distance recommendations specified in the IEEE RS-232 standard.

Interference Considerations

When wires are run for any significant distance, there is a risk that stray signals will be induced on the wires as interference. If interference signals are strong, they can cause data errors or damage to the equipment.

The following sections describe sources of interference and how to minimize its effects on the Cisco ASR 903 Router system.

Electromagnetic Interference

All equipment powered by AC current can propagate electrical energy that can cause EMI and possibly affect the operation of other equipment. The typical sources of EMI are equipment power cords and power service cables from electric utility companies.

Strong EMI can destroy the signal drivers and receivers in the Cisco ASR 903 Router and even create an electrical hazard by causing power surges through the power lines into installed equipment. These problems are rare but could be catastrophic.

To resolve these problems, you need specialized knowledge and equipment that could consume substantial time and money. However, you can ensure that you have a properly grounded and shielded electrical environment, paying special attention to the need for electrical surge suppression.

For information about the electrode magnetic compliance standards supported on the

Cisco ASR 903 Router, see Regulatory Compliance and Safety Information for the

Cisco ASR 903 Router.

Radio Frequency Interference

When electromagnetic fields act over a long distance, radio frequency interference (RFI) may be propagated. Building wiring can often act as an antenna, receiving the RFI signals and creating more EMI on the wiring.

 

Cisco ASR 903 Router Hardware Installation Guide

2-14

OL-25178-04

Page 42
Image 42
Cisco Systems ASR 903 manual Asynchronous Terminal Connections, Interference Considerations