United States
Q
What is a Cisco VWIC2 Card?
A
The Cisco VWIC2 (Voice/WAN Interface Card) provides one T1/E1 digital interface for voice and data on compatible Cisco routers, enabling TDM voice, fax and data VPNs over digital circuits.
Q
What is a Cisco VWIC3 Card?
A
The Cisco VWIC3 is an enhanced Voice/WAN Interface Card offering a single T1/E1 port with integrated SS7 signaling support, advanced clocking options, and higher voice channel density.
Q
What are the main differences between VWIC2 and VWIC3 Cards?
A
VWIC3 adds built-in SS7 support, improved clock synchronization and optimized DSP integration over VWIC2. It delivers greater voice channel capacity and advanced signaling without external modules.
Q
Which Cisco routers support VWIC2 and VWIC3 cards?
A
VWIC2 and VWIC3 cards are supported on Cisco ISR Generation 1/2, ISR 4000, ASR 1000 series and other Integrated Services Routers with compatible WIC slots.
Q
How do I install a VWIC2 or VWIC3 Card?
A
Power off the router, insert the VWIC card into an available WIC slot, secure with screws, reconnect cables, power on, and verify with the \
Q
How many ports do VWIC2 and VWIC3 Cards support?
A
Both VWIC2 and VWIC3 cards provide one T1/E1 port per card, supporting up to 24 DS0 voice or data channels over that interface.
Q
What voice protocols do VWIC2 and VWIC3 Cards support?
A
They support TDM voice, PRI (Q.931), ANI/CLID, Multi-Link Frame Relay for voice, dial peers and basicfax/modem passthrough over digital lines.
Q
Do VWIC2 and VWIC3 Cards require additional licensing?
A
No hardware licenses are needed, but ensure the router has the appropriate Cisco IOS voice or WAN feature license for voice or data services.
Q
Can VWIC2 and VWIC3 Cards handle SS7 signaling?
A
Only VWIC3 cards with the SS7 protocol license support integrated SS7 signaling. VWIC2 cards require an external SS7 gateway for SS7 connectivity.
Q
What are the throughput limits of VWIC2 and VWIC3 Cards?
A
Each card supports up to 24 simultaneous DS0 channels on its T1/E1 interface. Aggregate throughput depends on router platform and configured QoS policies.
Q
How do I configure a VWIC3 Card for T1 connectivity?
A
In global config mode: define the controller (e.g., \
Q
How can I troubleshoot VWIC2/VWIC3 Card issues?
A
Use commands like \
Q
Are VWIC2 and VWIC3 Cards hot-swappable?
A
No. VWIC2 and VWIC3 cards must be installed or removed with the router powered off to avoid hardware damage and ensure system stability.
Q
What are the environmental requirements for VWIC2 and VWIC3 Cards?
A
Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C; storage: –20°C to 70°C; relative humidity: 10%–85% non-condensing; standard rack airflow is required for cooling.
Q
What is the price range for Cisco VWIC2 and VWIC3 Cards?
A
Depending on vendor and condition (new or refurbished), prices typically range from $200 to $800 USD, with higher cost for SS7-enabled VWIC3 models.
Q
Where can I purchase genuine Cisco VWIC2 and VWIC3 Cards?
A
Buy from Cisco authorized resellers, certified channel partners or Cisco.com to ensure genuine hardware, valid warranty support and correct IOS licensing.
