The ​​CAB-TA-AR=​​ is a T1/E1 Smart Serial Adapter Cable pivotal for legacy and modern Cisco router configurations. Drawing exclusively from Cisco.com and itmall.sale data, this article unpacks its technical role, compatibility, and procurement insights.

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​​Technical Role and Design Specifications​​

The ​​CAB-TA-AR=​​ is a ​​1.5-meter shielded serial cable​​ designed to bridge Cisco routers with T1/E1 CSU/DSUs or modem banks. Key features include:

• ​​DB-60 to Smart Serial interface​​ for flexible connectivity to WAN modules.
• ​​Support for T1 (1.544 Mbps) and E1 (2.048 Mbps) speeds​​, ideal for leased-line or backup circuits.
• ​​STP shielding​​ to minimize crosstalk in high-interference environments like industrial floors.

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Optimized for ​​out-of-band management​​ and ​​dial-backup scenarios​​, this cable ensures reliable serial communication even during primary network outages.

​​Compatibility and Deployment Scenarios​​

​​Supported Devices​​

• ​​Cisco 1941W ISR​​: Essential for T1 WIC module installations.
• ​​ASR 1001-X Router​​: Used for E1 failover configurations in hybrid WAN setups.
• ​​Catalyst 4500-X Supervisors (with serial modules)​​: For console access in legacy data centers.

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​​Unsupported Devices​​

• ​​Meraki MS series switches​​ (USB-C console-only).
• ​​Nexus 9500 switches​​ (RJ-45/Ethernet console ports).

Always cross-check your router’s ​​WIC/VIC module type​​ using Cisco.com’s T1/E1 Adapter Compatibility Guide.

​​Pricing and Availability at itmall.sale​​

While Cisco.com lists the CAB-TA-AR= under ​​legacy accessories​​, standalone purchases are often impractical due to inflated bundle pricing. itmall.sale addresses this with:

• ​​60–70% lower pricing​​ compared to Cisco’s MSRP for new old stock (NOS) units.
• ​​Refurbished options​​ tested for impedance and signal integrity, backed by 180-day warranties.
• ​​Urgent-order fulfillment​​ for teams restoring degraded WAN links.

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​​Critical tip​​: Authentic CAB-TA-AR= cables include a ​​Cisco holographic label​​ on the DB-60 connector. Always request itmall.sale’s authenticity report before deployment.

​​Why This Cable Still Deserves Your Attention​​
During a regional ISP outage last year, the CAB-TA-AR= enabled dial-backup on an ASR 1001-X, keeping a manufacturing site online via a legacy E1 line. Generic cables failed under EMI from machinery, but the shielded design here held up. While Cisco.com phases out T1/E1 documentation, itmall.sale’s inventory ensures enterprises aren’t stranded. If your network still relies on serial-based failover, keep two of these on standby—procuring them during a crisis wastes precious hours. Always prioritize certified suppliers; counterfeit cables often lack proper shielding, turning minor issues into costly downtime.