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Cisco HWIC-8A-RF 8-Port Asynchronous HWIC - 9 Ports - 230. 40 kbit/s - RJ-45 & 68-pin - WAN Interface Card
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This interface card operates as an asynchronous serial HWIC with nine total ports: eight RJ-45 connectors and one 68-pin connector. All ports support RS-232 signaling for WAN applications, with a maximum data transfer rate of 230.40 kbit/s per port. The card uses standard asynchronous communication protocols compatible with legacy serial devices.
The HWIC-8A-RF interfaces directly with Cisco router backplanes through the HWIC slot, requiring no external power source. It supports hardware flow control and modem control signals through the RS-232 interface, ensuring reliable data transmission over extended distances.
Key Product Advantages
The HWIC-8A-RF delivers essential advantages for organizations maintaining legacy serial infrastructure while modernizing their network core. Its high port density in a single slot maximizes router interface utilization without requiring multiple cards or external devices.
Legacy Connectivity Preservation
Maintains connectivity with older serial devices, terminals, and equipment that still require RS-232 interfaces, extending the lifecycle of existing investments.
- Eight RJ-45 ports for standard serial connections
- 68-pin connector for specialized applications
- Full RS-232 signal support
Router Integration Efficiency
Integrates directly into compatible Cisco routers through the HWIC interface, eliminating external serial converters and reducing points of failure.
- Single-slot installation
- No external power required
- Backplane connectivity for reliability
Deployment / Use Cases
The HWIC-8A-RF serves critical roles in network environments where legacy serial devices must interface with modern IP infrastructure. Its asynchronous serial capabilities make it suitable for terminal server applications, providing console access to network equipment through serial ports.
In industrial settings, this card connects programmable logic controllers, SCADA systems, and other serial-based industrial equipment to Cisco routing platforms. Financial institutions use it for ATM and point-of-sale terminal connectivity, while telecommunications providers deploy it for modem banks and legacy communication equipment.
Network Console Management
Provides out-of-band management access to network devices through serial console ports, essential for data center and remote site administration.
Legacy Equipment Integration
Bridges older serial-based systems with modern IP networks, enabling gradual migration paths without immediate equipment replacement.
Physical Profile
The HWIC-8A-RF measures 0.80 inches in height, 3.10 inches in width, and 5.60 inches in depth, fitting standard HWIC slots in compatible Cisco routers. Its compact dimensions maximize port density while maintaining compatibility with router chassis constraints. The card features a standard HWIC connector interface and requires no additional mounting hardware beyond the router's existing HWIC slot mechanism.
- Width
- 3.10" (78.74 mm)
- Depth
- 5.60" (142.24 mm)
- Height
- 0.80" (20.32 mm)
Highlights
- Eight RJ-45 ports plus one 68-pin connector for flexible serial connectivity
- Maximum data transfer rate of 230.40 kbit/s per port
- Asynchronous RS-232 WAN interface for legacy serial communication
- Compatible with Cisco 1841, 1941, 2800, 2900, 3800, and 3900 Series routers
- HWIC form factor for direct router integration
- Compact dimensions: 0.80" H × 3.10" W × 5.60" D
- Wide Area Network application for branch and data center deployments
- No external power required - draws power from router backplane
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cisco Systems, Inc |
| Manufacturer Part Number | HWIC-8A-RF |
| Brand Name | Cisco |
| Product Name | 8-Port Asynchronous HWIC |
| Product Type | HWIC |
| Technical Information | |
| Application/Usage | Wide Area Network |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of Ports | 9 |
| Connector Type | RJ-45 |
| Interfaces/Ports Details | 1 x 68-pin,8 x RJ-45 Asynchronous RS-232 WAN |
| Media & Performance | |
| Maximum Data Transfer Rate | 230.40 kbit/s |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Height | 0.80" (20.32 mm) |
| Width | 3.10" (78.74 mm) |
| Depth | 5.60" (142.24 mm) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Compatibility | Cisco 1841 Integrated Services Router Cisco 1941 Integrated Services Router Cisco 2800 Series Integrated Services Router Cisco 2900 Series Integrated Services Router Cisco 3800 Series Integrated Services Router Cisco 3900 Series Integrated Services Router |
FAQ
What Cisco router models are compatible with the HWIC-8A-RF?
The HWIC-8A-RF is compatible with Cisco 1841 Integrated Services Router, Cisco 1941 Integrated Services Router, Cisco 2800 Series Integrated Services Router, Cisco 2900 Series Integrated Services Router, Cisco 3800 Series Integrated Services Router, and Cisco 3900 Series Integrated Services Router. These routers must have available HWIC slots to accommodate the card.
What types of connections does this HWIC support?
This HWIC supports asynchronous RS-232 WAN connections through its eight RJ-45 ports and one 68-pin connector. The RJ-45 ports provide standard serial connectivity for devices like consoles, terminals, and modems, while the 68-pin connector accommodates specialized serial applications requiring that interface type.
What is the maximum data transfer rate of the HWIC-8A-RF?
The HWIC-8A-RF supports a maximum data transfer rate of 230.40 kilobits per second (kbit/s) per port. This speed is suitable for legacy serial applications including terminal server connections, console access, and asynchronous data transmission for older equipment and protocols.
Does this card require external power or additional hardware?
No, the HWIC-8A-RF does not require external power or additional hardware for basic operation. It draws power directly from the Cisco router's backplane through the HWIC slot interface. Installation simply involves inserting the card into an available HWIC slot on a compatible router.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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