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Cisco HWIC-16A-RF 16-Port Asynchronous High-Speed WAN Interface Card - 230. 40 kbit/s - HSIM/VHSIM Expansion Slots
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This interface card delivers 16 independent asynchronous serial WAN ports, each capable of operating at a maximum data transfer rate of 230.40 kilobits per second. The card utilizes the HWIC form factor with HSIM/VHSIM expansion slot compatibility, allowing flexible deployment in compatible router chassis.
The asynchronous serial interface employs standard RS-232 signaling with support for hardware flow control, making it suitable for connecting to modems, terminal servers, and other serial devices. The card's design ensures reliable data transmission over extended distances while maintaining signal integrity across all 16 ports simultaneously.
Key Product Advantages
The HWIC-16A-RF offers significant advantages for networks requiring high-density serial connectivity. With 16 ports in a single slot, it maximizes router port utilization while minimizing physical space requirements. The asynchronous serial implementation provides compatibility with a wide range of legacy equipment without requiring protocol conversion hardware.
High Port Density
Consolidates 16 asynchronous serial connections into one interface card, reducing the need for multiple devices and simplifying cable management.
- Single-slot installation
- Reduced physical footprint
- Simplified port expansion
Router Platform Integration
Designed specifically for Cisco 1800, 2800, and 3800 series routers, ensuring reliable performance and seamless management through Cisco IOS.
- Native Cisco compatibility
- IOS management integration
- Platform-optimized design
Legacy Connectivity Support
Maintains connectivity with older serial-based systems while providing the reliability and management capabilities of modern Cisco hardware.
- RS-232 compatibility
- Hardware flow control
- Extended distance support
Deployment / Use Cases
This interface card is ideal for network environments that require multiple asynchronous serial connections for specialized applications. Its 16-port configuration makes it particularly valuable in scenarios where port density is critical for supporting numerous serial devices from a central router location.
Common deployment scenarios include financial institutions connecting to ATM networks, manufacturing facilities interfacing with industrial control systems, and telecommunications providers maintaining legacy serial-based network elements. The card also serves educational institutions and government agencies that operate specialized serial equipment requiring reliable WAN connectivity.
Industrial Control Networks
Connect programmable logic controllers, SCADA systems, and other industrial automation equipment that utilize asynchronous serial communication for monitoring and control functions.
Financial Transaction Networks
Support ATM terminals, point-of-sale systems, and transaction processors that rely on asynchronous serial protocols for secure financial data transmission.
Physical Profile
The HWIC-16A-RF measures 0.80 inches in height, 3.10 inches in width, and 5.60 inches in depth, conforming to the standard HWIC form factor for consistent installation across compatible router platforms. The compact dimensions allow efficient use of router chassis space while providing substantial port density. The card features a standard HWIC connector interface and is designed for hot-pluggable installation in supported routers, enabling maintenance and upgrades without network downtime.
- Width
- 3.10" (78.74 mm)
- Depth
- 5.60" (142.24 mm)
- Height
- 0.80" (20.32 mm)
Highlights
- 16 asynchronous serial WAN ports for high-density connectivity
- Maximum data transfer rate of 230.40 kilobits per second per port
- HSIM/VHSIM expansion slot compatibility for flexible deployment
- Designed for Cisco 1800, 2800, and 3800 series routers
- Compact HWIC form factor measuring 0.80" x 3.10" x 5.60"
- Supports legacy asynchronous serial applications and equipment
- Enables point-to-point WAN connections for specialized networks
- Hot-pluggable design for maintenance without network interruption
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cisco Systems, Inc |
| Manufacturer Part Number | HWIC-16A-RF |
| Brand Name | Cisco |
| Product Model | HWIC-16A |
| Product Name | 16-Port Asynchronous High-Speed WAN Interface Card |
| Product Type | HWIC |
| Technical Information | |
| Application/Usage | Wide Area Network |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of Ports | 16 |
| Interfaces/Ports Details | 16 x Asynchronous Serial WAN |
| Media & Performance | |
| Maximum Data Transfer Rate | 230.40 kbit/s |
| I/O Expansions | |
| Total Number of Expansion Slots | 16 |
| Expansion Slot Type | HSIM/VHSIM |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Height | 0.80" (20.32 mm) |
| Width | 3.10" (78.74 mm) |
| Depth | 5.60" (142.24 mm) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Compatibility | Cisco 1800 Series Routers Cisco 2800 Series Routers Cisco 3800 Series Routers |
FAQ
What router models are compatible with the HWIC-16A-RF interface card?
The HWIC-16A-RF is specifically designed for Cisco 1800 series, 2800 series, and 3800 series routers. These platforms provide the necessary HWIC slots and power requirements for proper operation. Compatibility extends across various models within these series, but always verify specific router model compatibility before deployment to ensure optimal performance and support.
What is the maximum data transfer rate supported by each port?
Each of the 16 asynchronous serial ports on the HWIC-16A-RF supports a maximum data transfer rate of 230.40 kilobits per second. This speed is suitable for legacy serial applications, industrial control systems, financial transaction networks, and other specialized WAN connections that don't require higher-speed synchronous protocols.
How many expansion slots does this interface card provide?
The HWIC-16A-RF provides 16 expansion slots configured for HSIM/VHSIM compatibility. These slots enable further expansion capabilities within compatible router platforms, allowing network administrators to scale connectivity options while maintaining efficient use of router chassis space and power resources.
What type of serial interface does this card use?
This interface card utilizes asynchronous serial WAN ports with RS-232 signaling standards. The asynchronous design means each port operates independently without requiring clock synchronization between devices, making it ideal for connecting to modems, terminal servers, industrial equipment, and other legacy serial devices that use standard asynchronous communication protocols.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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