Description
More Information
In networking and telecommunications, the Cisco VIC3-2E/M 2 Ports E&M Voice/Fax Interface Network Module Card is a crucial piece of hardware that plays a vital role in enabling voice and fax communications over IP networks. This module, produced by Cisco Systems, a global leader in networking technology, is designed to enhance the functionality of Cisco routers and provide businesses with the ability to seamlessly integrate traditional voice and fax services into their modern IP-based networks.
In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the details of the Cisco VIC3-2E/M module. We will explore its features, benefits, and use cases, as well as its technical specifications and how it works. By the end of this article, you will have a thorough understanding of this network module card and its significance in the world of voice and fax communication over IP networks.
Technical Specifications of Interface Card
The VIC3-2E/M Cisco 2 Ports E&M Voice/Fax Interface Card is a two-port voice and fax interface card for use with Cisco routers. The following are the technical specifications of the VIC3-2E/M:
- Connectivity: The VIC3-2E/M supports two E&M (Earnings and Message) voice and fax ports, which allow for connection to two PSTN lines or PBXs.
- Voice Compression: The card supports G.711, G.729, and G.726 voice compression algorithms for improved voice quality and bandwidth utilization.
- Fax Support: The VIC3-2E/M supports T.38 fax relay, which allows for the transfer of fax documents over IP networks.
- Call Routing: The card supports call routing and management functions, such as call forwarding, call waiting, and caller ID.
- Interface Type: The VIC3-2E/M is a modular interface card that can be installed in a Cisco integrated services router (ISR) for voice and fax connectivity.
- Compatibility: The card is compatible with Cisco Unified Communications Manager and other Cisco communication solutions.
- Power Consumption: The VIC3-2E/M requires 5V DC power from the router and consumes a maximum of 3W of power.
Use CasesBusiness Telephony
The Cisco VIC3-2E/M module is commonly used in business environments where there is a need to integrate analog telephony equipment into a modern IP network. This is especially relevant for companies with a substantial investment in existing analog phones, fax machines, and other voice equipment. By using the module, businesses can retain their legacy hardware while still taking advantage of the benefits of IP-based telephony.
Remote Branch Connectivity
In cases where remote branch offices need to be connected to the main office’s IP telephony system, the Cisco VIC3-2E/M module can be employed. It allows remote offices to use analog equipment and still communicate with the central IP-based telephony system, ensuring seamless connectivity across the organization.
Call Centers
Call centers often have a mix of analog and IP-based equipment to support customer service operations. The Cisco VIC3-2E/M module can serve as a bridge between these different types of equipment, ensuring that calls are routed efficiently and that customer service representatives can use their preferred analog devices.
Healthcare and Hospitality
In sectors like healthcare and hospitality, legacy analog devices such as nurse call systems or room phones may still be in use. The Cisco VIC3-2E/M module can be used to connect these analog devices to the hospital or hotel’s IP network, allowing for better communication and service delivery.
Advanced Features and Functionalities of Voice Interface Card
The VIC3-2E/M Cisco 2 Ports E&M Voice/Fax Interface Card is a versatile and powerful communication tool that offers advanced features and functionalities to enhance voice and fax communication capabilities. Some of these features include:
- Call Routing and Management: The VIC3-2E/M allows for efficient call routing and management, making it easier to manage incoming and outgoing calls. This feature enables users to route calls to the appropriate extension or department.
- Call Transfer: This feature allows users to transfer calls to other extensions, departments, or voicemail.
- Call Waiting: This feature alerts users of an incoming call while they are on another call.
- Call Hold: This feature allows users to place a call on hold and resume the call later.
- Call Forwarding: This feature enables users to forward calls to another extension or phone number.
- Voicemail Integration: The VIC3-2E/M integrates with Cisco’s voicemail systems, providing users with a seamless experience.
- Fax Support: The VIC3-2E/M supports fax transmission, making it easy to send and receive faxes without the need for a separate fax machine.
- Automatic Gain Control: This feature automatically adjusts the volume of incoming and outgoing calls, ensuring optimal audio quality.
- Echo Cancellation: The VIC3-2E/M uses advanced echo cancellation technology to eliminate echoes during calls, providing clear and distortion-free audio.
- High-Quality Voice: The VIC3-2E/M supports G.711, G.726, and G.729 voice codecs, providing high-quality voice communications.
- Scalability: The VIC3-2E/M is highly scalable, making it easy to expand the communication capabilities of a Cisco Unified Communications Manager system.
- Compatibility: The VIC3-2E/M is compatible with a range of Cisco network devices, making it easy to integrate with existing network infrastructure.
General Information about this Cisco VIC3-2E/M
- Manufacturer: Cisco Systems, Inc
- Part Number or SKU# VIC3-2E/M
- Type: Networking
- Sub-Type: Voice Interface Card
- Product Name: 2-port E&M Voice/Fax Interface Card
- Product Type: Voice Interface Card (VIC)
Interfaces/Ports
- Interfaces/Ports: 2 x E&M
- Interfaces/Ports Details: 2 x E&M
Miscellaneous
- Additional Information:
- Used to connect to PBX or key system as tie lines
Compatibility
- Cisco 2811 Integrated Services Routers
- Cisco 2821 Integrated Services Routers
- Cisco 2851 Integrated Services Routers
- Cisco 3825 Integrated Services Routers
- Cisco 3845 Integrated Services Routers
Finally, the Cisco VIC3-2E/M 2 Ports E&M Voice/Fax Interface Network Module Card is a versatile and valuable tool for businesses and organizations seeking to integrate analog voice and fax equipment into their IP-based networks. Its compatibility with a range of signaling protocols, scalability, and cost-saving benefits make it a popular choice for various industries, including business telephony, call centers, healthcare, and hospitality.
By understanding its technical specifications, use cases, and benefits, network administrators and IT professionals can make informed decisions about implementing the Cisco VIC3-2E/M module in their network infrastructure. This module serves as a bridge between the past and the future of communication technology, allowing organizations to leverage their existing analog equipment while benefiting from the advantages of modern IP networks.
