User manual

This guide provides an overview and description of the Physical Interface Cards (PICs)
supported by the Juniper Networks M10i Internet router. The PICs are described
alphabetically. Table 1 on page 3 lists the PICs supported by the M10i router.
PICs provide the physical connection to various network media types. The PICs are
inserted into a slot in a router. You can install PICs of different media types on the
same router as long as the router supports those PICs.
PICs receive incoming packets from the network and transmit outgoing packets to
the network. During this process, each PIC performs framing and high-speed signaling
for its media type. Before transmitting outgoing data packets, the PICs encapsulate
the packets received. Each PIC is equipped with a media-specific ASIC that performs
control functions tailored to the PIC's media type.
Blank PICs resemble other PICs but do not provide any physical connection or activity.
When a slot is not occupied by a PIC, you must insert a blank PIC to fill the empty
slot and ensure proper cooling of the system.
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M10i Internet Router PIC Guide