Hardware description

The network-module is placed in a compatible Cisco ISR chassis. The Cisco ISR provides power, network connectivity and software interfaces to it. The network-module is a self-contained computer which can host 3rd party application.

Different type of network-module are available for different performance need.

Cisco ISR compatibility

The network-modules are compatible with certain Cisco ISRs. Cisco ISR also require to be loaded with the right Cisco IOS to recognize and enable the network-module.

Network-Module vs Cisco ISR
Network-Module Hardware Description Cisco ISR Cisco IOS Version External Interface
AIM-APPRE-102-K9 CPU: 300Mhz, Mem: 256MB, Flash: 1GB Cisco 1841 only 12.4(15)T No
NME-APPRE-302-K9 CPU: 1.0Ghz, Mem: 512MB, HDD: 80GB All Cisco ISRs 12.4(15)T Yes
NME-APPRE-522-K9 CPU: 1.4Ghz, Mem: 2048GB, HDD: 160GB Cisco 3800 12.4(15)T Yes

Physical Installation of Network-Module

Note to writer: This section assumes that the ISR is already installed, is console available, has power and network connectivity

The network module need to first be installed in the ISR. The network-module is not a hot-swappable card; the ISR first needs to be powered off prior to insert the blade.

Follow the following steps to physically install the network-module inside the Cisco ISR.

1. Power off the Cisco ISR
2. Remove the a network-module face plate by unscrewing the 2 Phillips head bolts
3. Grab the netork-module by its handle, slide in the module in the ISR
4. Secure the network-module by tightening the 2 screws from the Network-Module face-plate to the ISR
5. Power the Cisco ISR back

After the Cisco ISR power is restored, monitor its boot process through the console. After the ISR boot sequence completes, verify that the "EN" led on the Network-Module is lit up.