PICs are hot-insertable and hot-removable. When you remove a PIC, the router continues to function, although the PIC interfaces being removed no longer function.
The PICs are located in the FPCs installed in the front of the router. A PIC weighs less than 2 lb (0.9 kg).
To remove a PIC (see Figure 1):
user@host> request chassis pic fpc-slot fpc-slot pic-slot pic-slot offlineFor more information about the command, see the Junos OS System Basics and Services Command Reference
.
![]() | Warning: Do not look directly into a fiber-optic transceiver or into the ends of fiber-optic cables. Fiber-optic transceivers and fiber-optic cable connected to a transceiver emit laser light that can damage your eyes. |
![]() | Caution: Do not leave a fiber-optic transceiver uncovered except when inserting or removing cable. The safety cap keeps the port clean and prevents accidental exposure to laser light. |
![]() | Caution: Do not let fiber-optic cable hang free from the connector. Do not allow fastened loops of cable to dangle, which stresses the cable at the fastening point. |
![]() | Caution: Avoid bending fiber-optic cable beyond its minimum bend radius. An arc smaller than a few inches in diameter can damage the cable and cause problems that are difficult to diagnose. |
Figure 1: Removing a PIC

To install a PIC (see Figure 2):
![]() | Caution: Slide the PIC straight into the slot to avoid damaging the components on the bottom of the PIC. |
![]() | Warning: Do not look directly into a fiber-optic transceiver or into the ends of fiber-optic cables. Fiber-optic transceivers and fiber-optic cable connected to a transceiver emit laser light that can damage your eyes. |
![]() | Caution: Do not leave a fiber-optic transceiver uncovered except when inserting or removing cable. The safety cap keeps the port clean and prevents accidental exposure to laser light. |
![]() | Caution: Do not let fiber-optic cable hang free from the connector. Do not allow fastened loops of cable to dangle, which stresses the cable at the fastening point. |
![]() | Caution: Avoid bending fiber-optic cable beyond its minimum bend radius. An arc smaller than a few inches in diameter can damage the cable and cause problems that are difficult to diagnose. |
user@host> request chassis pic fpc-slot fpc-slot pic-slot pic-slot onlineFor more information about the command, see the Junos OS System Basics and Services Command Reference
.
The normal functioning status LED confirms that the PIC is online. You can also verify correct PIC functioning by issuing the show chassis fpc pic-status command described in Maintaining MX480 PICs.
Figure 2: Installing a PIC
