Cisco HWIC-16A 16-Port Async Serial WAN Card

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Overview

The Cisco HWIC-16A is a high-density asynchronous serial WAN interface card designed for enterprise and service environments that require multiple RS-232 connections from a single router. It delivers sixteen asynchronous serial ports in a compact HWIC form factor, enabling scalable legacy integration without adding external hardware.

This module is widely used for console server deployments, legacy protocol transport, and dial access services across Cisco Integrated Services Routers.

Key Features

• Sixteen asynchronous RS-232 serial ports in DTE format
• High port density within a single HWIC slot
• Supports data rates up to 230.4 Kbps per port
• Enables WAN aggregation and console server roles
• Designed for legacy protocol and serial device integration
• Plug-in HWIC form factor for rapid deployment

Technical Specifications

Device Type: High-Speed WAN Interface Card

Model: HWIC-16A

Form Factor: Plug-in HWIC module

Interfaces: 16 × Asynchronous Serial WAN (RS-232)

Maximum Data Rate: Up to 230.4 Kbps per port

Application: Wide Area Networking, Serial Aggregation

UPC: 746320920191

Use Cases

• High-density console server deployments
• Legacy serial device connectivity
• WAN aggregation for asynchronous links
• Dial access and terminal server environments
• Migration support for older serial-based infrastructure

Why Choose HWIC-16A

• Consolidates sixteen serial connections into one slot
• Reduces cabling and external terminal server hardware
• Ideal for legacy systems still critical to operations
• Proven reliability in enterprise WAN deployments
• Backed by Cisco hardware engineering standards

FAQs

What is the HWIC-16A used for?

It provides sixteen asynchronous RS-232 serial WAN ports for connecting legacy devices, terminals, and console systems.

Does it support high port density?

Yes. It delivers sixteen serial interfaces in a single HWIC module.

What data speeds are supported?

Each port supports data rates up to 230.4 Kbps.

Is this suitable for console server applications?

Yes. It is commonly deployed as a centralized console and terminal server.

Can it be used for legacy protocol transport?

Yes. The HWIC-16A specifically supports legacy serial and asynchronous protocols.