Connecting PIC Cables to the M320 Router

Now connect PICs to the network by plugging in network cable. To connect cable to the PICs (see Figure 1, which shows a fiber-optic PIC):

1. Have ready a length of the type of cable used by the PIC. For cable specifications, see Supported Network Interface Standards by Transceiver , M Series, MX Series, and T Series Network Cable and Transceiver Overview, and the M320 Multiservice Edge Router PIC Guide.
2. If the PIC cable connector port is covered by a rubber safety plug, remove the plug.

   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.

3. Insert the cable connector into the cable connector port on the PIC faceplate.
4. Arrange the cable in the cable management system to prevent it from dislodging or developing stress points. Secure the cable so that it is not supporting its own weight as it hangs to the floor. Place excess cable out of the way in a neatly coiled loop in the cable management system. Placing fasteners on the loop helps to maintain its shape.

   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.

   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.

5. After you have draped the PIC cables, you can optionally install the cable cover (the cable cover prevents the PIC and CIP cables from being disturbed or snagged. To install the cable cover, insert the upper tabs of the cover into the slots of the upper cable guards, then insert the lower tabs of the cover into the slots of the lower cable guards (see Installing the M320 Cable Guards.

Figure 1: Attaching Cable to a PIC

Figure 2: Installing the Cable Cover