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Midplane
The midplane is a panel located in the center of the chassis, running
from side to side and forming the rear of the PIC card cage (see Figure 4).
All router components plug directly into the midplane. The midplane contains
an EEPROM that stores the serial number and revision level of the midplane.
The midplane performs the following functions:
- Transfer of packets—After being processed by a PIC, an incoming
data packet crosses the midplane to the FEB. The FEB performs switching and
forwarding functions and transfers outgoing packets back across the midplane
to the PICs for transmission to the network.
- Power distribution—The midplane distributes power to all
router components from the power supplies attached to it.
- Signal connectivity—The midplane transports the signals
exchanged by system components for monitoring and control purposes.
Figure 4: Midplane
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