What Is the ASR-903-BUN-1IMA? Features, Use Cases, and Compatibility Explored

Core Functionality of ASR-903-BUN-1IMA

The ​​ASR-903-BUN-1IMA​​ is a ​​pre-configured hardware and software bundle​​ for Cisco’s ASR 903 Router, tailored for service providers and enterprises deploying ​​T1/E1 or ATM-based networks​​. This bundle includes the router chassis, a ​​1-port IMA (Inverse Multiplexing over ATM) module​​, and essential licenses for legacy circuit emulation and pseudowire services. It bridges older telecom infrastructure with modern IP/MPLS networks, enabling cost-effective migration strategies.

Key Components and Specifications

• ​​Hardware​​: ASR 903 chassis with ​​AC power supply​​, one ​​A900-IMA1PA​​ module (1-port IMA), and integrated timing for synchronization.
• ​​Software​​: Includes ​​Cisco IOS XE Software​​ with licenses for ​​Circuit Emulation (CEM)​​ and ​​Structure-Agnostic TDM over Packet (SAToP)​​.
• ​​Scalability​​: Supports up to 8x10Gbps Ethernet interfaces for hybrid legacy/IP traffic aggregation.

Addressing Deployment Concerns

​​Q: Can the ASR-903-BUN-1IMA handle modern Ethernet services?​​
Yes. While optimized for legacy TDM/ATM, the router supports ​​Carrier Ethernet 2.0​​ and ​​MPLS-TP​​ for hybrid deployments.

​​Q: Is the IMA module upgradable to higher port densities?​​
No. The ​​A900-IMA1PA​​ is fixed at 1 port. For higher ATM/T1 needs, separate ​​A900-IMA2PA​​ modules must be added.

​​Q: Does the bundle include Layer 3 VPN support?​​
Layer 3 VPN requires additional ​​Advanced IP Services​​ licensing, which isn’t included in the base bundle.

Sourcing Reliable Bundles

Third-party sellers often dismantle or repackage ASR-903-BUN-1IMA kits, omitting critical licenses or using non-Cisco modules. For verified inventory, refer to [“ASR-903-BUN-1IMA” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/).

Practical Observations

Migrating legacy networks with the ASR-903-BUN-1IMA can be a double-edged sword. While it simplifies ATM-to-IP transitions, operators often underestimate the complexity of managing hybrid timing or CEM configurations. In one project, using non-genuine IMA modules caused clock drift issues that took weeks to diagnose—underscoring the value of certified hardware in avoiding invisible failures.