Chapter 3 Removing and Installing Port Adapters

Online Insertion and Removal

Figure 3-1 Handling a Port Adapter

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Online Insertion and Removal

Several platforms support online insertion and removal (OIR) of port adapters; therefore, you do not have to power down routers when removing and replacing a PA-2FE in the Cisco 7100 series routers, Cisco 7200 series routers, Cisco 7200 VXR routers, Cisco uBR7200 series routers, Cisco 7201 router, Cisco 7301 router, or Cisco 7401ASR router.

Although the Cisco 7304 PCI port adapter carrier card and VIP support OIR, individual port adapters do not. To replace port adapters in the Cisco 7304 router or Cisco 7500 series routers, you must first remove the Cisco 7304 PCI port adapter carrier card or VIP from the router and then install or replace

port adapters as required. If a blank port adapter is installed in the Cisco 7304 PCI port adapter carrier card or VIP on which you want to install a new port adapter, you must first remove the Cisco 7304 PCI port adapter carrier card or VIP from the router and then remove the blank port adapter.

Caution To prevent system problems, do not remove port adapters from the Cisco 7304 PCI port adapter carrier card or Cisco 7500 VIP motherboard or attempt to install other port adapters when the system is operating.

OIR allows you to install and replace port adapters and service adapters (carrier cards and VIPs) while the router is operating; you do not need to notify the software or shut down the system power, although you should not run traffic through the port adapter you are removing while it is being removed. OIR is a method that is seamless to end users on the network, maintains all routing information, and preserves sessions.

It is wise to gracefully shut down the system before removing a port adapter that has active traffic moving through it. Removing a port adapter while traffic is flowing through the ports can cause system disruption. Once the port adapter is inserted, the ports can be brought back up.

Note As you disengage the port adapter from the router or switch, OIR administratively shuts down all active interfaces in the port adapter.

The following is a functional description of OIR for background information only; for specific procedures for installing and replacing a PA-2FE in a supported platform, refer to the “Port Adapter Removal and Installation” section on page 3-4.

PA-2FE-TX and PA-2FE-FX Two-Port Fast Ethernet Port Adapter Installation and Configuration

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Cisco Systems PA-2FE-TX, PA-2FE-FX manual Online Insertion and Removal, Handling a Port Adapter

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.