Installing the Cisco ASR 920 Series Router
This chapter describes how to install the router and includes the following sections:
- Prerequisites
- Installing the Router in a Rack
- Mounting the Router in a Rack
- Installing the Router Chassis in the Rack
- Attaching the Cable Guides
- Wall Mounting the Router
- Installing and Removing SFP Modules
- Connecting to the Copper Ports
- Installing the Chassis Ground Connection
- Installing and Removing the Fan Tray
- Interface Module Installation
- Installing the Power Supply
- Connecting the Router to the Network
Prerequisites
Before installing the router, it is important to prepare for the installation by:
- Preparing the site (site planning) and reviewing the installation plans or method of procedures (MOP). See Site Planning section.
- Unpacking and inspecting the router. See Chassis-Lifting Guidelines section.
- Gathering the tools and test equipment required to properly install the router. See Tools and Equipment section.
For more instructions on how to prepare for the installation of the router, see Preparing for Installation section.
Installing the Router in a Rack
Each Cisco ASR 920 Series Aggregation Services Router router includes rack-mounting brackets. Using the rack-mounting brackets, you can mount the router in a 19-inch, 23-inch, or an ETSI rack that conforms to the EIA-310-D specification.
Using the two rack-mounting brackets for mounting, you can recess the router in the equipment rack. This arrangement provides extra space in front of the router for the cables and allows you to close the doors of racks equipped with front-close doors.
To attach or replace the rack-mounting brackets, see the Attaching Brackets to the Router section.
The rack-mounting brackets are slotted to allow the router to be mounted in racks with EIA 1.25-inch (3.175-cm) or WECO 1.0-inch (2.54-cm) hole spacing. When installed in the rack, the router requires one EIA 1.75-inch (4.4-cm) vertical mounting space (or 1 rack unit [RU]) for mounting (see the Mounting the Router in a Rack section).
![]() Caution | Allow clearance on either side of the router for cooling air to be drawn in through the right side and circulated through the chassis and out the three-fan exhaust ports mounted on the other side of chassis. |
The sections describe how to install the router in a rack. The procedures in this section apply to both horizontal and vertical mounting of the router in a rack:
Attaching Brackets to the Router
The bracket orientation and the brackets that you use depend on whether you are attaching the brackets for a 19-inch, 23-inch, or an ETSI rack. The following figure shows the types of mounting brackets.

|
1 |
19-inch brackets |
2 |
23-inch brackets |
|
3 |
ETSI-rack brackets |
— |
— |
-
For 19-inch racks, use part number 700-39959-01 (see Attaching Brackets for 19-Inch Racks section.
-
For 23-inch racks, use part number 700-40065-01 (see Attaching Brackets for 23-Inch Racks section).
-
For ETSI racks, use part number 700-40067-01 (see Attaching Brackets for ETSI Racks section).
![]() Note | The bracket mounting screws are pre-installed on the router. Depending on the bracket mounting position of the chassis, you must remove the appropriate screws, fix the bracket, and install the screws again. |
- Attaching Brackets for 19-Inch Racks
- Attaching Brackets for 23-Inch Racks
- Attaching Brackets for ETSI Racks
Attaching Brackets for 19-Inch Racks
The following figure shows how to attach brackets for 19-inch racks on the router.

|
1 |
Phillips flat-head screws |
2 |
Front-mounting position |
|
3 |
Mid-mounting position |
4 |
Rear-mounting position |
Attaching Brackets for 23-Inch Racks
The following figure shows how to attach brackets for 23-inch racks on the router.

|
1 |
Phillips flat-head screws |
2 |
Front-mounting position |
|
3 |
Mid-mounting position |
4 |
Rear-mounting position |
Attaching Brackets for ETSI Racks
The following figure shows how to attach brackets for ETSI racks on the router.

|
1 |
Phillips flat-head screws |
2 |
Front-mounting position |
|
3 |
Mid-mounting position |
4 |
Rear-mounting position |
Mounting the Router in a Rack
Perform the steps given below to mount the router into the equipment rack.
![]() Note | To secure the router to the equipment rack, you must use the two mounting screws (provided) for each side or follow your local practices for installing the router into your equipment rack. Ensure that the rack-mount brackets are securely fastened. For more information, see the Attaching Brackets to the Router section. |
Installing the Router Chassis in the Rack
![]() Note | Ensure adequate air flow when mounting the router in a rack. For more information, see the Air Flow Guidelines section. |
![]() Note | Install the cable guides before installing the router in a 19-inch EIA rack. See the Attaching the Cable Guides section. |
To install the router chassis in the equipment rack, perform these steps:
Attaching the Cable Guides
The Cisco ASR 920 Series Router supports the following cable guides:
-
A920-CBL-GUIDE (left and right)—help in routing the cables from all components on the front panel thereby enabling a proper cable-bending radius.
![]() Note | If the chassis is mounted using 19-inch brackets, you must assemble the cable guides before installing the chassis on the rack. |
To install the cable guides, perform these steps:
Wall Mounting the Router
To install the router on a wall, follow the instructions in these procedures:
Attaching the Brackets to the Router for Wall-Mounting
![]() Note | While wall mounting the router, always ensure that the power supplies are at the top position. |

Mounting Router on the Wall
For the best support of the router and cables, ensure the router is attached securely to wall studs or to a firmly attached plywood mounting backboard.
![]() Warning | Suitable for mounting on and over a concrete or other non-combustible surface only. Statement 345 |

![]() Caution | When mounting the router vertically, ensure that the power supplies are at the top. |
Installing and Removing SFP Modules
These sections describe how to install and remove SFP modules. The modules are inserted into the SFP module slots as depicted in Installing an SFP Module into an SFP Module Slot figure. These field-replaceable modules provide interfaces.
Each port must match the wavelength specifications on the other end of the cable. For reliable communications, the cable must not exceed the stipulated cable length.
Use only Cisco SFP modules on the Cisco router. Each SFP module has an internal serial EEPROM that is encoded with security information. This encoding provides a way for Cisco to identify and validate that the SFP module meets the requirements for the router.
For detailed instructions on installing, removing, and cabling the SFP module, see the SFP module documentation.
Installing SFP Modules
The following figure shows an SFP module that has a bale-clasp latch.
To insert an SFP module into the module slot, follow these steps:
Removing SFP Modules
To remove an SFP module from a module receptacle, follow these steps:
| Step 1 | Attach an ESD-preventive wrist strap to your wrist and to a bare metal surface on the chassis. | ||
| Step 2 | Disconnect the cable from the SFP module, and insert a dust plug into the cable end.
| ||
| Step 3 | Unlock and remove the SFP module, as shown in the following figure.
![]() | ||
| Step 4 | Grasp the SFP module between your thumb and index finger, and carefully remove it from the module slot. | ||
| Step 5 | For fiber-optic SFP modules, insert a dust plug into the optical ports of the SFP module to keep the optical interfaces clean. | ||
| Step 6 | Place the removed SFP module in an antistatic bag or other protective environment. |
Connecting to the Copper Ports
Copper ports [0:7] are capable of working 10/100/1000 Mbps.
![]() Note | The router copper ports configure themselves to operate at the speed of attached devices. If the attached ports do not support autonegotiation, you can explicitly set the speed and duplex parameters. Connecting devices that do not autonegotiate or that have their speed and duplex parameters manually set can reduce performance or result in no linkage. |
To maximize performance, choose one of these methods for configuring the Ethernet ports:
| Step 1 | When connecting to workstations, servers, and routers, connect a straight-through cable to an RJ-45 connector on the front panel.When connecting to routers or repeaters, use a crossover cable.
| ||
| Step 2 | Connect the other end of the cable to an RJ-45 connector on the other device. The port LED turns on when both the router and the connected device have established link.
If the port LED does not turn on, the device at the other end might not be turned on, or there might be a cable problem or a problem with the adapter installed in the attached device.
| ||
| Step 3 | Reconfigure and reboot the connected device, if necessary. | ||
| Step 4 | Repeat Steps 1 through 3 to connect each device. |
Connecting to SFP Modules
This section describes how to connect to SFP modules. For instructions on how to connect to fiber-optic SFP modules, see the Connecting to Fiber-Optic SFP Modules section.
For instructions about how to install or remove an SFP module, see the Installing and Removing SFP Modules section.
Connecting to Fiber-Optic SFP Modules
Follow these steps to connect a fiber-optic cable to an SFP module:
Class 1 laser product. Statement 1008
![]() Caution | Do not remove the rubber plugs from the SFP module port or the rubber caps from the fiber-optic cable until you are ready to connect the cable. The plugs and caps protect the SFP module ports and cables from contamination and ambient light. |
| Step 1 | Remove the rubber plugs from the module port and fiber-optic cable, and store them for future use. |
| Step 2 | Insert one end of the fiber-optic cable into the SFP module port. |
| Step 3 | Insert the other cable end into a fiber-optic connector on a target device. |
| Step 4 | Observe the port status LED.
The LED turns green when the router and the target device have an established link. If the LED is off, the target device might not be turned on, there might be a cable problem, or there might be problem with the adapter installed in the target device. |
| Step 5 | If necessary, reconfigure and restart the router or target device. |
Installing the Chassis Ground Connection
Before you connect the power or turn on the power to the router, you must provide an adequate chassis ground (earth) connection to your router.
This section describes how to ground the chassis. The grounding lug location is on the back panel of the router.
![]() Tip | Ensure that the grounding lug wire does not cover the fan opening. |

|
1 |
Grounding-lug |
To ensure that the chassis ground connection that you provide is adequate, you need the following parts and tools:
- Ratcheting torque screwdriver with Phillips head that exerts up to 15 in.-lb (1.69 N-m) of torque for attaching the ground wire to the router
- Crimping tool as specified by the ground lug manufacturer
- 6-AWG or larger copper wire for the ground wire
- Wire-stripping tools appropriate to the wire you are using
![]() Caution | Before making connections to the router, ensure that you disconnect the power at the circuit breaker. Otherwise, severe injury to you or damage to the router may occur. |
![]() Caution | Electric Shock Hazard: This fan tray has to be serviced by trained personnel only. |
![]() Warning | This equipment must be grounded. Never defeat the ground conductor or operate the equipment in the absence of a suitably installed ground conductor. Contact the appropriate electrical inspection authority or an electrician if you are uncertain that suitable grounding is available. Statement 1024 |
![]() Warning | Use copper conductors only. Statement 1025 |
![]() Warning | When installing the unit, the ground connection must always be made first and disconnected last. Statement 42 |
This unit is to be installed in a restrictive access location and must be permanently grounded to a minimum 6-AWG copper ground wire.
Perform the following procedure to ground the router using a 2-hole lug and the corresponding mounting point. Most carriers require a minimum 6-AWG ground connection. Verify your carrier’s requirements for the ground connection.
| Step 1 | If your ground wire is insulated, use a wire-stripping tool to strip the ground wire to 0.5 inch ± 0.02 inch (12.7 mm ±0.5 mm).
![]() |
| Step 2 | Slide the open end of your 2-hole ground lug over the exposed area of the ground wire. |
| Step 3 | Using a crimping tool (as specified by the ground lug manufacturer), crimp the ground lug to the ground wire as shown in the following figure.
![]() |
| Step 4 | Use a Phillips head screwdriver to attach the 2-hole ground lug and wire assembly to the router with the 2 pan-head Phillips head screws. |
| Step 5 | Connect the other end of the ground wire to a suitable grounding point at your site. |
Installing and Removing the Fan Tray
This section describes how to install and remove fan trays.
Installing the Fan Tray
Follow these steps to install the fan tray in the chassis:
![]() Caution | Electric Shock Hazard: This fan tray has to be serviced by trained personnel only. |
![]() Caution | Always wear the ESD wrist strap when installing or uninstalling the fan tray. |
![]() Caution | Unplug all power sources before performing this procedure. |
| Step 1 | Orient the fan tray so that the captive screws are aligned to the chassis cavity on the back panel. See the following figure.
![]() |
| Step 2 | Push the fan assembly into the chassis until the power connector seats in the backplane and the captive installation screws make contact with the chassis. |
| Step 3 | Tighten the captive installation screws, using a flat-blade or number 2 Phillips-head screwdriver. |
Removing the Fan Tray
To remove the existing fan assembly, follow these steps:
![]() Caution | When removing the fan tray, keep your hands and fingers away from the spinning fan blades. Let the fan blades stop completely before you remove the fan tray. |
![]() Caution | Unplug all power sources before performing this procedure. |
![]() Caution | Always wear the ESD wrist strap when installing or uninstalling the fan tray. |
| Step 1 | Locate the fan assembly in the chassis. The fan tray is located to the left of the chassis on the rear side. See the following figure.
![]() |
| Step 2 | Loosen the two fan tray captive installation screws by turning them counterclockwise, using a flat-blade or number 2 Phillips-head screwdriver. |
| Step 3 | Grasp the fan assembly with both hands, and pull it outward; rock it gently, if necessary, to unseat the fan assembly power connector from the backplane. |
| Step 4 | Pull the fan assembly clear of the chassis, and set it aside. |
Interface Module Installation
The following sections describe the various tasks of associated with interface module installation:
Installing an Interface Module
![]() Caution | Before inserting an interface module, make sure that the chassis is grounded. |
| Step 1 | To insert the interface module, carefully align the edges of the interface module between the upper and lower edges of the router slot. |
| Step 2 | Carefully slide the interface module into the router slot until the interface module makes contact with the backplane. |
| Step 3 | Tighten the locking thumbscrews on both sides of the interface module. The recommended maximum torque is 5.5 in.-lb (.62 N-m). |
| Step 4 | Connect all the cables to each interface module. |
Removing an Interface Module
| Step 1 | To remove an interface module, disconnect all the cables from the interface module. |
| Step 2 | Loosen the locking thumbscrews on both sides of the interface module. |
| Step 3 | Slide the interface module out of the router slot by pulling on the handles. If you are removing a blank filler plate, pull the blank filler plate completely out of the router slot using the captive screws. |
Installing the Power Supply
The Cisco ASR 920 Router router provides the choice of two different power supplies:
- DC power—The DC power supply uses 2-position terminal block-style connector with positive latching/securing and labeled connections for +24/48V, GRD, -24/48V. The terminal block connector is of suitable size to carry the appropriate AWG wire size to handle the input current of the power supply. No ON/OFF switch is provided.
- AC power—The AC power supply has an IEC 320-type power receptacle and a 15 Amp service connector. You can use standard right angle power cords with the AC power supply. The power supply includes a power cord retainer. No ON/OFF switch is provided.
You can install dual power supplies for redundancy.
![]() Warning | Read the installation instructions before connecting the system to the power source. Statement 10 |
![]() Note | Products that have an AC power connection are required to have an external surge protective device (SPD) provided as part of the building installation to comply with the Telcordia GR-1089 NEBS standard for electromagnetic compatibility and safety. |
![]() Caution | Do not use interface module and power supply ejector handles to lift the chassis; using the handles to lift the chassis can deform or damage the handles. |
- Power Connection Guidelines
- Installing the DC Power Supply Module
- Removing the DC Power Supply Module
- Installing the AC Power Supply Module
- Removing the AC Power Supply Module
- Powering On the Router
Power Connection Guidelines
This section provides guidelines for connecting the router’s power supplies to the site power source.
![]() Warning | Never defeat the ground conductor or operate the equipment in the absence of a suitably installed ground conductor. Contact the appropriate electrical inspection authority or an electrician if you are uncertain that suitable grounding is available. Statement 213 |
![]() Warning | The plug-socket combination must be accessible at all times because it serves as the main disconnecting device. Statement 1019 |
![]() Warning | This product requires short-circuit (overcurrent) protection, to be provided as part of the building installation. Install only in accordance with national and local wiring regulations. Statement 1045 |
Guidelines for DC-Powered Systems
Basic guidelines for DC-powered systems include the following:
- Each chassis power supply should have its own dedicated input power source. The source must comply with the safety extra-low voltage (SELV) requirements in the UL 60950, CSA 60950, EN 60950, and IEC 60950 standards.
- The circuit must be protected by a dedicated two-pole circuit breaker. The circuit breaker should be sized according to the power supply input rating and local or national code requirements.
- The circuit breaker is considered the disconnect device and should be easily accessible.
- The system ground is the power supply and chassis ground.
- Do not connect the DC return wire to the system frame or to the system-grounding equipment.
- Use the grounding lug to attach a wrist strap for ESD protection during servicing.
- If the chassis is powered with -48V grounding of the positive, the it should be done at the power source side and chassis should protected by a dedicated two-pole circuit breaker.
Guidelines for AC-Powered Systems
Basic guidelines for AC-powered systems include the following:
- Each chassis power supply should have its own dedicated branch circuit.
- The circuit breaker should be sized according to the power supply input rating and local or national code requirements.
- The AC power receptacles used to plug in the chassis must be the grounding type. The grounding conductors that connect to the receptacles should connect to protective earth ground at the service equipment.
Preventing Power Loss
Use the following guidelines to prevent power loss to the router:
- To prevent loss of input power, ensure that the total maximum load on each circuit supplying the power supplies is within the current ratings of the wiring and breakers.
- In some systems, you can use an UPS to protect against power failures at your site. Avoid UPS types that use ferroresonant technology. These UPS types can become unstable with systems such as the Cisco ASR 920 Series Router, which can have substantial current-draw fluctuations due to bursty data traffic patterns.
Use the information in the Cisco ASR-920-12SZ-IM Router Specifications table to estimate the power requirements and heat dissipation of the router based on a given configuration of the router. Determining power requirements is useful for planning the power distribution system needed to support the router.
Installing the DC Power Supply Module
This equipment is suitable for installation in Network Telecommunications Facilities and locations where the NEC applies.
This equipment is suitable for installations utilizing the Common Bonding Network (CBN).
The grounding architecture of this product is DC-Isolated (DC-I) for DC-powered products. DC-powered products have a nominal operating DC voltage of 48 VDC.
Perform the following procedure to install the power supply module:
| Step 1 | Ensure that the system (earth) ground connection has been made. See the following figure. |
| Step 2 | If necessary, remove the blank power supply filler plate from the chassis power supply bay opening by loosening the captive installation screws. |
| Step 3 | Verify that power to the DC circuit connected to the power supply you are installing is off. To ensure that power has been removed from the DC circuits, locate the circuit breakers for the DC circuits, switch the circuit breakers to the OFF position, and tape the circuit-breaker switches in the OFF position. |
| Step 4 | Grasp the power supply handle with one hand. Place your other hand underneath the power supply. Slide the power supply into the power supply bay. Make sure that the power supply is fully seated in the bay. |
| Step 5 | Tighten the captive installation screws of the power supply. The recommended maximum torque is 5.5 in.-lb (0.62 N-m).
![]() |
Activating a DC Power Supply Module
Perform the following procedure to activate a DC power supply:
| Step 1 | Remove the tape from the circuit-breaker router handle, and restore power by moving the circuit-breaker router handle to the On (|) position. | ||
| Step 2 | Verify power supply operation by checking if the respective power supply front panel LED (PS0 or PS1) is green. | ||
| Step 3 | If the LEDs indicate a power problem, see Troubleshooting. | ||
| Step 4 | If you are connecting a redundant DC power supply, repeat these steps for the second power source.
|
Installing the DC Power Cables
![]() Note | When installing DC power supply, use 14 AWG, 90°C wires. Always ensure that the building’s installation for short-circuit (overcurrent) protection does not exceed 15A. |
![]() Note | The DC connector or terminal block has an inbuilt screw and cage nut to which a torque of 1.3 to 1.8 N-m can be applied. |

|
A |
0.97 inches |
C |
0.27 inches |
|
B |
0.31 inches |
M |
0.81 inches |
To attach the DC power supplies:
| Step 1 | Locate the terminal block plug. |
| Step 2 | Insert the DC-input power source wires into the terminal block plug. |
| Step 3 | Attach the DC supply wires using the designated screws. |
| Step 4 | Use a ratcheting torque screwdriver to torque the terminal block plug captive screw. See the following figure.
![]() |
Removing the DC Power Supply Module
This section provides information about removing and replacing the DC power supply.
![]() Warning | Before performing any of the following procedures, ensure that power is removed from the DC circuit. Statement 1003 |
![]() Warning | Only trained and qualified personnel should be allowed to install, replace, or service this equipment. Statement 1030 |
Follow these steps to remove and replace the DC power supply:
| Step 1 | Before servicing the power supply, switch off the circuit breaker in your equipment area. As an additional precaution, tape the circuit-breaker switch in the Off position. |
| Step 2 | Slip on the ESD-preventive wrist strap that was included in the accessory kit. |
| Step 3 | Switch the power supply circuit-breaker switch to the Off (O) position. |
| Step 4 | Pull the terminal block plug connector out of the terminal block head in the power supply. See the following figure. |
| Step 5 | Loosen the captive screws on the DC power supply. |
| Step 6 | Grasp the power supply handle. Simultaneously press the power supply lock towards the left and pull the power supply out from the chassis while supporting it with the other hand.
![]() |
Installing the AC Power Supply Module
Follow these steps to install the AC power supply module:
| Step 1 | Ensure that the system (earth) ground connection has been made. |
| Step 2 | If necessary, remove the blank power supply filler plate from the chassis power supply bay opening by loosening the captive installation screws. |
| Step 3 | Grasp the power supply handle with one hand. Place your other hand underneath the power supply. Slide the power supply into the power supply bay. Make sure that the power supply is fully seated in the bay. See the following figure.
![]() |
| Step 4 | Slide the AC power supply cord inside the tie of the tie-and-holder and tighten the tie around the power supply cord. |
| Step 5 | Plug the power supply cord into the AC power supply. |
Installing the AC Power Cables
To install the AC power cables in the power supply slots:
Activating an AC Power Supply Module
Perform the following procedure to activate an AC power supply:
| Step 1 | Plug the power cord into the power supply. | ||
| Step 2 | Connect the other end of the power cord to an AC-input power source. | ||
| Step 3 | Verify power supply operation by checking if the respective power supply front panel LED (PS0 or PS1) is green. | ||
| Step 4 | If the LEDs indicate a power problem, see Troubleshooting for troubleshooting information. | ||
| Step 5 | If you are connecting a redundant AC power supply, repeat these steps for the second power source.
|
Removing the AC Power Supply Module
This section describes how to remove and replace the AC power supply.
![]() Warning | When you install the unit, the ground connection must always be made first and disconnected last. Statement 1046 |
![]() Warning | Only trained and qualified personnel should be allowed to install, replace, or service this equipment. Statement 1030 |
![]() Warning | Installation of the equipment must comply with local and national electrical codes. Statement 1074 |
Follow these steps to remove and replace the AC power supply:
| Step 1 | Disconnect the power cord from the power source. Do not touch any metal on the power cord when it is still connected to the power supply. |
| Step 2 | Loosen the tie and remove the power cord from the tie-and holder. |
| Step 3 | Remove the power cord from the power connection on the power supply. Do not touch the metal prongs embedded in the power supply. |
| Step 4 | Grasp the power supply handle. Simultaneously press the power supply lock towards the left and pull the power supply out from the chassis while supporting it with the other hand.
![]() |
Powering On the Router
After the router is either rack mounted or mounted on the wall, perform these tasks to complete the installation:
Connecting the Router to the Network
The sections describe how to connect a router to the network:
![]() Note | Connect only SELV services to all the ports. |
- Connecting Console Cables
- Connecting to the EIA Console Port
- Connecting a Management Ethernet Cable
- Installing and Removing SFP and SFP+ Modules
- Connecting a USB Flash Device
- Connecting Timing Cables
- Connecting Ethernet Cables
- Connecting Cables to SFP Modules
- Connector and Cable Specifications
Connecting Console Cables
The sections describe how to connect to the router using console cables:
- Connecting to the USB Serial Port Using Microsoft Windows
- Connecting to the Console Port Using Mac OS X
- Connecting to the Console Port Using Linux
- Installing the Cisco USB Device Driver
- Uninstalling the Cisco USB Driver
Connecting to the USB Serial Port Using Microsoft Windows
This procedure shows how to connect to the USB serial port using Microsoft Windows.
![]() Note | Install the USB device driver before establishing a physical connection between the router and the PC, by using the USB console cable plugged into the USB serial port. Otherwise, the connection will fail. For more information, see the Installing the Cisco USB Device Driver section. |
| Step 1 | Connect a USB Type A-to-Type A cable to the USB console port. If you are using the USB serial port for the first time on a Windows-based PC, install the USB driver now according to the instructions in the following sections:
| ||
| Step 2 | Connect the USB Type A cable to the PC. | ||
| Step 3 | To communicate with the router, start a terminal emulator application, such as Microsoft Windows HyperTerminal. This software should be configured with the following parameters:
|
Connecting to the Console Port Using Mac OS X
This procedure describes how to connect a Mac OS X system USB port to the console using the built-in OS X terminal utility.
| Step 1 | Use the Finder to choose Applications > Utilities > Terminal. |
| Step 2 | Connect the OS X USB port to the router. |
| Step 3 | Enter the following commands to find the OS X USB port number: Example: macbook:user$ cd /dev macbook:user$ ls -ltr /dev/*usb* crw-rw-rw- 1 root wheel 9, 66 Apr 1 16:46 tty.usbmodem1a21 DT-macbook:dev user$ |
| Step 4 | Connect to the USB port with the following command followed by the router USB port speed: Example: macbook:user$ screen /dev/tty.usbmodem1a21 9600 To disconnect the OS X USB console from the terminal window, enter Ctrl-a followed by Ctrl-\ |
Connecting to the Console Port Using Linux
This procedure shows how to connect a Linux system USB port to the console using the built-in Linux terminal utility.
| Step 1 | Open the Linux terminal window. |
| Step 2 | Connect the Linux USB port to the router. |
| Step 3 | Enter the following commands to find the Linux USB port number: Example: root@usb-suse# cd /dev root@usb-suse /dev# ls -ltr *ACM* crw-r--r-- 1 root root 188, 0 Jan 14 18:02 ttyACM0 root@usb-suse /dev# |
| Step 4 | Connect to the USB port with the following command, followed by the router USB port speed: Example: root@usb-suse /dev# screen /dev/ttyACM0 9600 To disconnect the Linux USB console from the terminal window, enter Ctrl-a followed by : then quit |
Installing the Cisco USB Device Driver
A USB device driver must be installed the first time a Microsoft Windows-based PC is connected to the USB serial port on the router.
This procedure describes how to install the Microsoft Windows USB device driver in Microsoft Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 2000, Windows 7, and Windows 8. Download the driver for your router model from the Tools and Resources Download Software site, USB Console Software category.
![]() Note | To download the driver, you must have a valid service contract associated to your Cisco.com profile. |
| Step 1 | Unzip the file asr-9xx_usbconsole_drivers.zip. |
| Step 2 | Double-click xrusbser_ver2100_installer.exe in the XR21x141x-Win-DriversOnly-Vers2.1.0.0/EXE folder.
Installation Wizard GUI is displayed. |
| Step 3 | Click Next. The InstallShield Wizard Completed window is displayed. |
| Step 4 | Click Finish. |
| Step 5 | Connect the USB cable to the PC and router USB console ports. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation of the driver. |
| Step 6 | XR21V1401 USB UART Device driver successfully installed message is displayed.
The USB console is ready for use. |
Uninstalling the Cisco USB Driver

|
1 |
USB Type-A console port |
2 |
USB Type-A to USB Type-A console cable |
This procedure describes how to uninstall the Microsoft Windows USB device driver in Microsoft Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 2000, Windows 7, and Windows 8.
![]() Note | Disconnect the router console terminal before uninstalling the driver. |
| Step 1 | Choose Start > Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs . |
| Step 2 | Scroll to Windows Driver Package - Exar corporation (xrusbser) Ports and click Remove. The Program Maintenance window is displayed. |
| Step 3 | Click Yes to uninstall the driver. |
Connecting to the EIA Console Port
![]() Note | The US-to-RJ45 adapter cable and the DB9 console cable are not included with the router; they can be ordered separately from Cisco. |
![]() Note | The serial console cable kit is not included with the router; it is ordered separately. |
To connect a terminal to the EIA Console port on the router, follow these steps:
| Step 1 | Connect the USB end of the USB-to RJ-45 cable to the EIA Console port. | ||||||||||||
| Step 2 | Connect the RJ-45 end of the DB-9 adapter cable to the USB-to RJ-45 cable, as shown in the following figure.
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| Step 3 | Connect the DB-9 end of the console cable to the DB-9 end of the terminal. | ||||||||||||
| Step 4 | To communicate with the router, start a terminal emulator application, such as Microsoft Windows HyperTerminal. This software should be configured with the following parameters:
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Connecting a Management Ethernet Cable
When using the Ethernet Management port in the default mode (speed-auto and duplex-auto) the port operates in the auto-MDI/MDI-X mode. The port automatically provides the correct signal connectivity through the Auto-MDI/MDI-X feature. The port automatically senses a crossover or straight-through cable and adapts to it.
However, when the Ethernet Management port is configured to a fixed speed (10, 100, or 1000 Mbps) through command-line interface (CLI) commands, the port is forced to the MDI mode.
When in a fixed-speed configuration and MDI mode:
- Use a crossover cable to connect to an MDI port
- Use a straight-through cable to connect to an MDI-X port
![]() Caution | To comply with the Telcordia GR-1089 NEBS standard for electromagnetic compatibility and safety, connect the Management Ethernet ports only to intra-building or unexposed wiring or cable. The intrabuilding cable must be shielded and the shield must be grounded at both ends. The intra-building port(s) of the equipment or subassembly must not be metallically connected to interfaces that connect to the OSP or its wiring. These interfaces are designed for use as intra-building interfaces only (Type 2 or Type 4 ports as described in GR-1089-CORE) and require isolation from the exposed OSP cabling. The addition of Primary Protectors is not sufficient protection in order to connect these interfaces metallically to OSP wiring. |
Installing and Removing SFP and SFP+ Modules
The Cisco ASR 920 Series Router supports a variety of SFP and SFP+ modules, including optical and Ethernet modules. For information on how to install and remove SFP and SFP+ modules, see the documentation for the SFP or SFP+ module at:
For information about inspecting and cleaning fiber-optic connections, see: http://www.cisco.com/en/US/partner/tech/tk482/tk876/technologies_white_paper09186a0080254eba.shtml
![]() Caution | We recommend that you wait for 30 seconds between the removal and insertion of an SFP on an interface module. We recommend this to allow the transceiver software to initialize and synchronize with the Cisco ASR 920 Series Router. Changing an SFP more quickly could result in transceiver initialization issues that disable the SFP. |
Connecting a USB Flash Device
To connect a USB flash device to the router, insert the memory stick in the USB port labeled USB MEM. The Flash memory module can be inserted only one way, and can be inserted or removed regardless of whether the router is powered up or not.

Removing a USB Flash Device
To remove and replace a USB flash token memory stick from and into a router, follow these steps:
| Step 1 | Pull the memory stick from the USB port. |
| Step 2 | To replace the Cisco USB Flash memory stick, simply insert the module into the USB port labeled USB MEM. The Flash memory module can be inserted only one way, and can be inserted or removed regardless of whether the router is powered up or not.
This completes the USB Flash memory installation procedure. |
Connecting Timing Cables
The section describes how to connect timing cables to the Cisco ASR 920 Series Router:
Connecting Cables to a GPS Interface
The sections describe how to connect cables from the Cisco ASR-920-12SZ-IM Router to a GPS unit for input or output timing of frequency:
- Connecting a Cable to the Input 10-Mhz or 1-PPS Interface
- Connecting a Cable to the Output 10-Mhz or 1-PPS Interface
- Connecting a Cable to the ToD Interface
- Connecting a Cable to the GNSS Antenna Interface
Connecting a Cable to the Input 10-Mhz or 1-PPS Interface
Connecting a Cable to the Output 10-Mhz or 1-PPS Interface
Connecting a Cable to the ToD Interface
What to Do Next
![]() Note | For instructions on how to configure clocking, see the Cisco ASR 920 Series Aggregation Services Routers Configuration Guide . |
![]() Warning | To comply with the Telcordia GR-1089 NEBS standard for electromagnetic compatibility and safety, connect the ToD ports only to intra-building or unexposed wiring or cable. The intrabuilding cable must be shielded and the shield must be grounded at both ends. The intra-building port(s) of the equipment or subassembly must not be metallically connected to interfaces that connect to the OSP or its wiring. These interfaces are designed for use as intra-building interfaces only (Type 2 or Type 4 ports as described in GR-1089-CORE) and require isolation from the exposed OSP cabling. The addition of Primary Protectors is not sufficient protection in order to connect these interfaces metallically to OSP wiring. |
![]() Note | For more information about GPS-port pinouts, see Troubleshooting section. |
Connecting a Cable to the GNSS Antenna Interface
| Step 1 | Connect one end of a shielded coaxial cable to the GNSS RF IN port. | ||
| Step 2 | Connect the other end of the shielded coaxial cable to the GNSS antenna after the primary protector.
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Connecting Ethernet Cables
The Cisco ASR 920 Series Router interface modules support RJ-45 and Ethernet SFP ports. For instructions on how to connect cables to Ethernet SFP ports, see the Connecting Cables to SFP Modules section.
The RJ-45 port supports standard straight-through and crossover Category 5 unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cables. Cisco does not supply Category 5 UTP cables; these cables are available commercially.
![]() Warning | To comply with the Telcordia GR-1089 NEBS standard for electromagnetic compatibility and safety, connect the Gigabit Ethernet ports only to intra-building or unexposed wiring or cable. The intrabuilding cable must be shielded and the shield must be grounded at both ends. The intra-building port(s) of the equipment or subassembly must not be metallically connected to interfaces that connect to the OSP or its wiring. These interfaces are designed for use as intra-building interfaces only (Type 2 or Type 4 ports as described in GR-1089-CORE) and require isolation from the exposed OSP cabling. The addition of Primary Protectors is not sufficient protection in order to connect these interfaces metallically to OSP wiring. |
Follow these steps to connect a cable to a copper Gigabit Ethernet port:
Connecting Cables to SFP Modules
For information on connecting cables to Cisco optical and Ethernet SFP interfaces, see:
Connector and Cable Specifications
For more information on cable specifications and pinouts, see the Troubleshooting section.






















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