The Cisco® ASR 901 Series Aggregation Services Routers are environmentally hardened, high-speed, low-power-consumption routers optimized for any-generation cell-site Radio Access Network (RAN) backhaul and Ethernet access. By using Cisco ASR 901 routers, operators can reduce backhaul operating costs, simplify and converge their RAN and Ethernet access networks, and enhance their profit opportunities with mobile and premium Ethernet services.
RAN cell sites are places of transformation between mobile radio and mobile transport networks. Cost-effective RAN backhaul requires the ability to simultaneously aggregate the transport of traffic from both traditional and next-generation radios across multiple transport options available at the cell site. The Cisco ASR 901 routers are designed to minimize operating costs and optimize this radio-to-transport transformation through scalable time-division multiplexing (TDM) and IP/Ethernet interfaces for any combination of multivendor, multigeneration radios and transport networks.
Product Overview
The Cisco ASR 901 Series Aggregation Services Routers are compact cell-site and Ethernet access routers specifically designed to clock, aggregate, and backhaul mixed-generation RAN traffic. Cisco ASR 901 routers prioritize and process cell-site voice, data, and signaling traffic as part of the Cisco Unified RAN Backhaul solution for reliable transport across any available backhaul networks, including T1/E1, ATM, Carrier Ethernet, microwave, WiMAX, and service provider Wi-Fi networks.
Designed for cell sites and Carrier Ethernet access, the Cisco ASR 901 differentiating features include:
• Low power consumption
• Line rate performance for all Layer 2 and Layer 3 interfaces
• Flexible clocking options: TDM, Building Integrated Timing Supply (BITS), GPS (10Mhz, 1PPS/ToD),1588v2, and Synchronous Ethernet (SyncE)
• Extended operating temperatures
• Small form factor: 1 rack unit (RU) with 8.3 - 9.1 in. depth
• Redundant power and cooling
Figures 1 and 2 show the two basic 1-Gigabit Ethernet models of the Cisco ASR 901 Series routers.
Figure 1. Cisco ASR 901-12C-FT-D and ASR 901-4C-FT-D Routers
Figure 2. Cisco ASR 901-12C-F-D and ASR 901-4C-F-D Routers
Figures 3 through 6 show the four basic 10-Gigabit Ethernet models of the Cisco ASR 901 Series routers.
Figure 3. Cisco ASR 901-6CZ-FT-D Router
Figure 4. Cisco ASR 901-6CZ-F-D Router
Figure 5. Cisco ASR 901-6CZ-FT-A Router
Figure 6. Cisco ASR 901-6CZ-F-A Router
Major Applications
Cell-Site Backhaul for Mobile Applications
Deployed as cell-site routers for mobile backhaul, the Cisco ASR 901 routers can aggregate multiple base stations through multiple TDM, Ethernet, and IP interfaces, and can use Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), Resilient Ethernet Protocol (REP), Multilink Point-to-Point Protocol (MLPPP), Layer 2 VPN (L2VPN), Layer 3 VPN (L3VPN), and other common transport protocols for RAN backhaul. Essentially, the routers prioritize, differentiate, and segment any combination of 2G, 3G, or 4G traffic for backhaul over any combination of IP/Ethernet and TDM (E1/T1) infrastructures (copper, microwave, or optical).
Metro Ethernet Access
Cisco ASR 901 routers allow service providers to simultaneously manage and operate Pseudowire Emulation Edge to Edge (PWE3) and Carrier Ethernet environments by supporting line-rate Layer 2 Ethernet operations, administration, and maintenance (EOAM), including Connectivity Fault Management (CFM), Ethernet Local Management Interface (E-LMI), REP, QinQ, and link aggregation.
Business Access Device
Cisco ASR 901 routers are optimized for remote-access and small aggregation sites where a fully featured, compact access platform is needed. The routers offer business service flexibility using an Ethernet virtual circuit (EVC) infrastructure and deliver Layer 2, IP, and MPLS transport for advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 VPN services.
Benefits
Cisco ASR 901 routers help service providers deliver advanced services and reduce operating costs for mobile backhaul and Carrier Ethernet access solutions. Highlights include the following.
"Green" Hardware
Cisco ASR 901 routers help service providers reduce operating costs by optimizing energy efficiency, allowing cost-effective and responsible resource management. The routers are designed for low power consumption with Reduction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) compliant, lead-free components. An indirect benefit is a significant reduction of carbon emissions.
Comprehensive Services
With the Cisco ASR 901 routers, services can be prioritized and differentiated through hierarchical quality of service (HQoS) and security attributes. The routers offer advanced traffic analytics and performance monitoring and control, including per-traffic-class metering, bidirectional packets, and byte statistics. The service offering is enhanced with comprehensive OAM functionality, including Layer 2 CFM, IP service-level agreements (SLAs) for Layer 3, and MPLS OAM and TDM advanced timing and synchronization.
Service Scalability
The Cisco ASR 901 routers deliver line-rate performance and flexible service scalability in a compact form factor. With support for up to 32,000 MAC addresses, up to 4000 bridge domains, and multiple hierarchical queues, the routers deliver high performance and scale for all mobile and Carrier Ethernet services.
Advanced Timing
The Cisco ASR 901 routers provide the timing services required in today's converged access networks by offering integrated support for the BITS, 10-MHz, 1 Pulse Per Second (PPS), and Time of Day (ToD) interfaces. The routers support SyncE on copper and optical ports and IEEE1588v2 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) clock recovery from T1/E1 ports.
Network Simplification
Cisco network virtualization (nV) technology can simplify network operations by reducing the number of components that must be managed, supporting easier configuration. The result is increased network scalability, improved service velocity, and lower operating costs. The nV-capable Cisco ASR 901 routers can be deployed as satellites of a Cisco ASR 9000 Series system to reduce the complexity of today's mobile Internet networks.
Components and Options
Table 1 lists the hardware parts available for the Cisco ASR 901 Series.
Table 1. Hardware Components for the Cisco ASR 901 Series
Part Number
Description
A901-12C-F-D
Cisco ASR 901 Series Aggregation Services Router Chassis, Ethernet-only interfaces, DC power
A901-12C-FT-D
Cisco ASR 901 Series Aggregation Services Router Chassis, Ethernet and TDM interfaces, DC power
A901-4C-F-D
Cisco ASR 901 Series Aggregation Services Router Chassis, PAYG 4 GE Port, Ethernet-only interfaces, DC power
A901-4C-FT-D
Cisco ASR 901 Series Aggregation Services Router Chassis, PAYG 4 GE Port, Ethernet and TDM interfaces, DC power
A901-6CZ-F-D
Cisco ASR 901 Series Aggregation Services Router Chassis, Ethernet-only interfaces, 10 GE, DC power, USB
A901-6CZ-FT-D
Cisco ASR 901 Series Aggregation Services Router Chassis, Ethernet and TDM interfaces, 10 GE, DC power, USB
A901-6CZ-F-A
Cisco ASR 901 Series Aggregation Services Router Chassis, Ethernet-only interfaces, 10 GE, AC power, USB
A901-6CZ-FT-A
Cisco ASR 901 Series Aggregation Services Router Chassis, Ethernet and TDM interfaces, 10 GE, AC power, USB
Cisco ASR 901 Accessories
CAB-CONSOLE-RJ45
Console cable: 6 ft with RJ-45 and DB9F
CAB-CONSOLE-RJ45=
Console cable: 6 ft with RJ-45 and DB9F (spare)
Cisco ASR 901 Rack Mount Kits
A901-RCKMNT-19IN
Cisco ASR 901 Router 19-in. Rack Mount Kit
A901-RCKMNT-19IN=
Cisco ASR 901 Router 19-in. Rack Mount Kit, spare
A901-RCKMNT-23IN
Cisco ASR 901 Router 23-in. Rack Mount Kit
A901-RCKMNT-23IN=
Cisco ASR 901 Router 23-in. Rack Mount Kit, spare
A901-RCKMNT-R19
Cisco ASR 901 Router Recessed Rack Mount Kit for 19-in. cabinet
A901-RCKMNT-R19=
Cisco ASR 901 Router Recessed Rack Mount Kit for 19-in. cabinet, spare
A901Z-RCKMNT-19IN
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router 19-in. Rack Mount Kit
A901Z-RCKMNT-19IN=
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router 19-in. Rack Mount Kit, spare
A901Z-RCKMNT-23IN
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router 23-in. Rack Mount Kit
A901Z-RCKMNT-23IN=
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router 23-in. Rack Mount Kit, spare
A901Z-RCKMNT-ETSI
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router ETSI Rack Mount Kit
A901Z-RCKMNT-ETSI=
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router ETSI Rack Mount Kit, spare
A901Z-RCKMNT-R19
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router Recessed Rack Mount Kit for 19-in. cabinet
A901Z-RCKMNT-R19=
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router Recessed Rack Mount Kit for 19-in. cabinet, spare
A901Z-RCKMNT-R23
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router Recessed Rack Mount Kit for 23-in. cabinet
A901Z-RCKMNT-R23=
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router Recessed Rack Mount Kit for 23-in. cabinet, spare
A901Z-RCKMNT-RETS
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router Recessed Rack Mount Kit for ETSI cabinet
A901Z-RCKMNT-RETS=
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router Recessed Rack Mount Kit for ETSI cabinet, spare
A901Z-RCKMNT-WALL
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router Wall Mount Kit
A901Z-RCKMNT-WALL=
Cisco ASR 901 10GE Router Wall Mount Kit, spare
The Cisco ASR 901 Series supports a wide range of Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) and enhanced SFP (SFP+) optics modules. Table 2 lists their part numbers. The operational temperatures supported for the optics are defined by individual SFP or SFP+ modules.
Table 2. SFP and SFP+ Modules Supported with the Cisco ASR 901 Series
• MPLS: MPLS using Label Distribution Protocol (LDP), EoMPLS, L3VPN, MPLS OAM, pseudowire redundancy, TE FRR, Labeled BGP (RFC3107)
• EOAM: CFM over pseudowire, IP SLA (LSP)
• TDM: T1/E1, Circuit Emulation Service over Packet Switched Network (CESoPSN) over MPLS and User Datagram Protocol (UDP), Structure Agnostic TDM over Packet (SAToP) over MPLS and UDP, PPP High-Level Data Control (HDLC) over MPLS, IP over PPP, HDLC, MLPPP, QoS over MLPPP, TDM Pseudowire redundancy, TDM Local Switching
Flexible Software Options
Cisco ASR 901 routers support the Cisco IOS Software Activation feature. With this feature, Cisco IOS Software feature sets can be activated by Cisco software licenses, providing a "pay as services grow" model. This model allows service providers to invest in software resources only when their businesses need it. The Cisco ASR 901 routers offer two Cisco IOS Software feature licenses. Each license enables feature activation on a per-chassis basis.
• The Base license includes support for Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, Sync-E, and 1588 Ordinary Clock.
• The Advanced IP Metro license adds the following capabilities to the Base license: TDM, MPLS, CESoPSN pseudowires, MPLS VPN support, Ethernet pseudowires and pseudowire redundancy.
Table 4 lists the main features in the Cisco IOS Software licenses for the Cisco ASR 901 Series.
Table 4. Software Feature Set in Cisco ASR 901 Series Licenses
Base Software Services (Default Image)
Advanced Metro IP Services
EVC infrastructure, 802.1Q, 802.1ad, QinQ, 802.3ah, and REP
• Authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) with TACACS+ and RADIUS
• Secure Shell (SSH) Protocol v2
• Layer 3 ACLs
Availability
• REP
• Cisco Express Forwarding Load Sharing of Equal Cost Paths
• IEEE 802.1s MSTP
• Bidirectional Forwarding Detection (BFD) support for OSPF, IS-IS, BGP, and static routes
• Multi Hop BFD
• HSRP and VRRP
• Pseudowire redundancy
• TE/FRR
Manageability
• Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
• SSH, Telnet
• Command Line Interface (CLI)
• Cisco Prime™ Network: fault, provisioning, and performance management
• Remote Monitoring (RMON)
• Embedded Event Manager (EEM) Script
• Data Collection Manager (DCM)
Product Specifications
Tables 9, 10, and 11 list product, power, and environmental specifications for the Cisco ASR 901 routers. Table 12 provides safety and compliance information.
Table 9. Cisco ASR 901 Series System Specifications
Description
Cisco ASR 901 Series Specification
Dimensions (H x W x D)
A901-12C-FT-D, A901-4C-FT-D: 1.7 x 17.5 x 8.3 in. (43.2 x 444.5 x 211 mm), 1 RU
A901-12C-F-D, A901-4C-F-D: 1.7 x 17.5 x 8.3 in. (43.2 x 444.5 x 211 mm), 1 RU
A901-6CZ-FT-D: 1.7 x 17.5 x 9.1 in. (43.2 x 444.5 x 231 mm), 1RU
A901-6CZ-F-D: 1.7 x 17.5 x 9.1 in. (43.2 x 444.5 x 231 mm), 1RU
A901-6CZ-FT-A: 1.7 x 17.5 x 9.1 in. (43.2 x 444.5 x 231 mm), 1RU
A901-6CZ-F-A: 1.7 x 17.5 x 9.1 in. (43.2 x 444.5 x 231 mm), 1RU
Weight
A901-12C-FT-D, A901-4C-FT-D: 8.15 lb (3.7 kg)
A901-12C-F-D, A901-4C-F-D: 7.93 lb (3.6 kg)
A901-6CZ-FT-D: 8.15 lb (3.7 kg)
A901-6CZ-F-D: 7.93 lb (3.6 kg)
A901-6CZ-FT-A: 8.15 lb (3.7 kg)
A901-6CZ-F-A: 7.93 lb (3.6 kg)
Memory
Flash memory: 128 MB (onboard flash)
System memory: 512 MB (DDR3)
Rack mounts
1 GE models:
• 19-in. rack mount option
• 23-in. rack mount option
• Recessed rack mount option for 19-in. cabinets
10 GE models:
• 19-in. rack mount option
• 23-in. rack mount option
• ETSI rack mount option
• Recessed rack mount option for 19-in. cabinets
• Recessed rack mount option for 23-in. cabinets
• Recessed rack mount option for ETSI cabinets
• Wall mount option
Ethernet ports
4 100/1000 RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet ports
4 x 1 SFP Gigabit Ethernet ports1
4 x 1 Gigabit Ethernet Combo ports1
2 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports (10 GE models only)
TDM ports
A901-12C-FT-D: 16 T1/E1
A901-4C-FT-D: 16 T1/E1
A901-6CZ-FT-D: 8 T1/E1
A901-6CZ-FT-A: 8 T1/E1
Console port
1 (up to 115.2 Kbps)
USB port
1 supported on the following chassis models:
• A901-6CZ-FT-D
• A901-6CZ-F-D
• A901-6CZ-FT-A
• A901-6CZ-F-A
External timing ports
BITS input, 10-MHz input/output, 1 PPS input/output, ToD interface, and SyncE
Fans
1 GE models: dual fan, 1+1 redundancy
10 GE models: three fans, with redundancy
Air flow
Left to right airflow
Cabling
Front-panel access cabling and LED indicators
Power supplies
2 power supplies (DC only); module redundancy: 1:1
1 power supply (AC only)
Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF)
A901-12C-F-D: 614,790 hours
A901-4C-F-D: 614,790 hours
A901-12C-FT-D: 378,310 hours
A901-4C-FT-D: 378,310 hours
A901-6CZ-F-D: 491,160 hours
A901-6CZ-FT-D: 378,490 hours
A901-6CZ-FT-A: 383,220 hours
A901-6CZ-F-A: 499,660 hours
1 Fiber ports can operate at 100 M with 100-M FX SFP.
Table 10. Power Specifications
Description
Cisco ASR 901 Specifications
Power consumption
1 GE models: dual DC
DC-input power and power dissipation:
• A901-12C-F-D: 40W
• A901-4C-F-D: 40W
• A901-12C-FT-D: 50W
• A901-4C-FT-D: 50W
10 GE models: dual DC
Maximum DC-input power and power dissipation at 48V supply:
• A901-6CZ-F-D: 58W
• A901-6CZ-FT-D: 67W
10 GE models: single AC only
AC-input power and power dissipation:
• A901-6CZ-F-A: 57W
• A901-6CZ-FT-A: 65W
AC input voltage and frequency
AC-input voltage rating: 100V-240V
1A-0.5A, 50-60Hz
Power rating
1 GE models:
• DC-input voltage rating: 24 VDC, -48 VDC, -60 VDC
• DC-input current rating: 2.8A maximum
10 GE models:
• DC-input voltage rating: 24 VDC, -48 VDC, -60 VDC
DC-input current rating: 3.2A maximum
Power connector
6-position 2-tier stacked connector comprising two feeds, A and B DC power (AMPHENOL ELVA06100), and 3-position mating connectors for each feed (AMPHENOL ELVP03100)
• AC power: AC voltage = 220V, Temp = 65C, Traffic -> 8 copper (1 GE) port + 4 SFP (GE) +2 SFP+ (10 GE) + 8 TDM ports
• DC power: DC voltage = 48V, Temp = 65C, Traffic -> 8 copper (1 GE) port + 4 SFP (GE) +2 SFP+ (10 GE) + 8 TDM ports
• Traffic conditions are the same for the AC and DC chassis. In the case of Ethernet-only chassis, TDM, traffic is not present
Table 11. Environmental Specifications
Description
Cisco ASR 901
Operating temperature1
-40 to 149°F (-40 to 65°C)
Nonoperating temperature
-40 to 158°F (-40 to 70°C)
Relative humidity
10% to 85%, noncondensing, ±5 %
Operational altitude
13,000 ft (4000m) maximum 104°F (40°C) ambient
Acoustic noise2
1 GE models: 66 dBA with 23 cfm fan
10 GE models: 61 dBA with 19 cfm fan
Air flow
1 GE models: 46 cfm
10 GE models: 57 cfm
1 Optics used may limit the temperature range.
2 The above are for normal (nonfailure) operation. When operating with a fan failure, the above may be exceeded.
1 The TDM ports (A901-12C-FT-D, A901-4C-FT-D, A901-6CZ-FT-D, and A901-6CZ-FT-A) and BITS ports require the use of shielded twisted pair cabling (STP) for EMC emissions.
2 The copper Ethernet ports require the use of STP cabling for NEBS EMC compliance. The TDM ports (A901-12C-FT-D, A901-4C-FT-D, A901-6CZ-FT-D, and A901-6CZ-FT-A) and BITS ports are Type-2 and Type-4 NEBS compliant.
Warranty Information
Warranty information is available on Cisco.com at the Product Warranties page.
Service and Support
Cisco offers a wide range of services programs to accelerate customer success. These innovative services programs are delivered through a unique combination of people, processes, tools, and partners, resulting in high levels of customer satisfaction. Cisco Services help you protect your network investment, optimize network operations, and prepare your network for new applications to extend network intelligence and the power of your business. For more information about Cisco Services, refer to Cisco Technical Support Services or Cisco Advanced Services.
Cisco is committed to minimizing your total cost of ownership. Cisco offers a portfolio of technical support services to help ensure that Cisco products operate efficiently, remain highly available, and benefit from the most up-to-date system software. The services and support programs described in Table 13 are available as part of the Cisco Carrier Ethernet Switching Service and Support solution and are available directly from Cisco and through resellers.
Table 13. Service and Support
Advanced Services
Features
Benefits
Cisco Total Implementation Solutions (TIS), available directly from Cisco
Cisco Packaged TIS, available through resellers
• Project management
• Site survey, configuration, and deployment
• Installation, text, and cutover
• Training
• Major moves, adds, and changes
• Design review and product staging
• Supplement existing staff
• Help ensure functions meet needs
• Mitigate risk
Cisco SP Base Support and Service-Provider-Based Onsite Support, available directly from Cisco
Cisco Packaged Service-Provider-Based Support, available through resellers
• 24-hour access to software updates
• Web access to technical repositories
• Telephone support through the Cisco Technical Assistance Center (TAC)
• Advance replacement of hardware parts
• Facilitate proactive or expedited problem resolution
• Lower total cost of ownership by taking advantage of Cisco expertise and knowledge
