Cisco 2-Port Async/Sync Serial WAN High-Speed Interface Card

Overview

The Cisco HWIC-2A/S= is a 2-port asynchronous and synchronous serial WAN interface card designed to enhance the connectivity of Cisco 1800, 2800, and 3800 Series Integrated Services Routers. It supports multiple serial protocols such as RS-232, RS-449, RS-530, V.35, and X.21, providing versatile options for various WAN applications. With a data transfer rate of up to 128 Kbps, this card is ideal for reliable low-density WAN aggregation and external dial-modem access, fitting well in small to medium-sized business networks or branch offices that require legacy protocol support and diverse serial connectivity.

Key features

• Two serial ports supporting both asynchronous and synchronous communication for flexible WAN connections
• Compatibility with multiple serial protocols including RS-232, RS-449, RS-530, V.35, and X.21 to connect a wide range of legacy and modern equipment
• Data transfer speeds up to 128 Kbps, ensuring efficient performance for low-density WAN environments
• Plug-in module design that simplifies installation and allows easy expansion of router capabilities without replacing hardware
• Supports remote network management and WAN access, making it suitable for branch offices and distributed network setups
• Designed to integrate seamlessly with Cisco 1800, 2800, and 3800 Series routers, maintaining network consistency and reliability

Key specs

• Ports: 2 asynchronous/synchronous serial WAN interfaces
• Supported protocols: RS-232, RS-449, RS-530, V.35, X.21
• Maximum data transfer rate: 128 Kbps
• Compatible routers: Cisco 1800, 2800, and 3800 Series Integrated Services Routers
• Form factor: HWIC (High-Speed WAN Interface Card) plug-in module

Connectivity and compatibility

This interface card offers broad compatibility with serial WAN protocols, enabling connections to a variety of legacy and current network devices. Its support for multiple serial standards ensures it can bridge older equipment with modern Cisco routers, preserving existing infrastructure investments. The plug-in design allows network administrators to add or upgrade WAN interfaces quickly without disrupting the overall system.

Ideal uses and environments

The HWIC-2A/S= is well suited for businesses that rely on serial WAN links for remote site connectivity, legacy equipment integration, or dial-up modem access. It fits naturally in branch offices or small to medium-sized networks where maintaining diverse serial connections is essential. This card helps ensure stable and consistent WAN communication, supporting network administrators in managing distributed environments efficiently.