Interface Processors
Cisco VIP and AIP Cards
VIP (Versatile Interface Processor)
AIP (ATM Interface Processor)
VIP (Versatile Interface Processors)
The VIP module is a highly configurable, RISC-based, intelligent interface processor. It at has it’s own slots that accept PA’s (Port Adapters) for connection to the WAN. For example, with the VIP2, up to two separate port adapters (PAs) can be configured on each VIP2, enabling the customer to optimize the VIP2 and system configurations in terms of price, performance, and density. PAs provide the media-specific interfaces for the VIPs, and can support specialized processing engines for high-bandwidth compression and encryption applications.
VIP2
VIP2 is for the 7000 with RSP7000 processor and the 7500 - and VIP4 is for the 7500 – each accept up to 2 port adapters.
NOTE: VIP modules do not have interfaces !!! You must use them in conjunction with PA cards in order to connect to the WAN.
AIP (ATM Interface Processor)
Instead of using both a VIP and PA to connect a 7000 or 7500 router, Lightstream 100 and 2020 ATM switch or Catalyst 5000 Ethernet switch to an ATM network, a single AIP is more robust. AIP is the more desirable solution for ATM connections – however, VIP and PA combinations cannot be replaced by an AIP when used for other protocols such as Fast Ethernet, T1/E1, High-Speed Serial Interface (HSSI), etc. The AIP slides into the same large slot on the 7000/7500 as the VIP does:
