Table of Contents

Accessing the Mainboard

Removing the Cisco 3620 or Cisco 3640 Router Cover
Removing the Cisco 3660 Mainboard Tray

Replacing DRAM and SDRAM

DRAM SIMMs (Used in Cisco 3620 and Cisco 3640 Routers)

DRAM SIMM Orientation
Removing DRAM SIMMS
Installing DRAM SIMMs

SDRAM DIMMs (Used in the Cisco 3660 Router)

SDRAM DIMM Orientation
Removing SDRAM DIMMS
Installing SDRAM DIMMs

Replacing Flash Memory SIMMs

Removing Flash Memory SIMMs
Installing Flash Memory SIMMs

Replacing the ROM

Testing ROM Installation

Closing the Router

Replacing the Cover on the Cisco 3620 or 3640 Router
Replacing the Cisco 3660 Mainboard Tray

Installing and Configuring Flash Memory Cards

Installing a Flash Memory Card
Removing a Flash Memory Card
Partitioning a Flash Memory Card
Displaying the Contents of a Flash Memory Card
Copying a File from System Flash Memory to a Flash Memory Card
Copying a Running Configuration File to a Flash Memory Card
Copying a File from a Flash Memory Card to System Flash Memory
Copying a File between Slots
Booting from a Flash Memory Card
Erasing the Contents of a Flash Memory Card

Installing Memory in the Router

This chapter describes procedures for adding and replacing memory in Cisco 3600 series routers, and contains the following sections:

• Accessing the Mainboard

• Replacing DRAM and SDRAM

• Replacing Flash Memory SIMMs

• Replacing the ROM

• Closing the Router

• Installing and Configuring Flash Memory Cards

Warning Only trained and qualified personnel should be allowed to install or replace this equipment.

Caution Before performing any procedures described in this chapter, review these sections:

• Safety Recommendations

• General Site Requirements

• Installation Checklist

• Required Tools and Equipment for Installation and Maintenance

Accessing the Mainboard

This section describes how to open the system in order to access the router's internal components such as memory modules and the ROM. You need a number 2 Phillips or flat-blade screwdriver to complete this procedure.

Warning Do not touch the power supply when the power cord is connected. For systems with a power switch, line voltages are present within the power supply even when the power switch is OFF and the power cord is connected. For systems without a power switch, line voltages are present within the power supply when the power cord is connected.

Warning Before performing any of the following procedures, ensure that power is removed from the DC circuit. To ensure that all power is OFF, locate the circuit breaker on the panel board that services the DC circuit, switch the circuit breaker to the OFF position, and tape the switch handle of the circuit breaker in the OFF position.

Removing the Cisco 3620 or Cisco 3640 Router Cover

Use the following procedure to remove the cover:

Step 1 Power OFF the router. However, to channel ESD voltages to ground, do not unplug the power cable.

Warning Before opening the chassis, disconnect the telephone-network cables to avoid contact with telephone-network voltages.

Step 2 Remove all network interface cables from the rear panel.

Step 3 Place the router so that the front panel is facing you. Remove the three screws located on top of the cover near the front edge. (See Figure 4-1 or Figure 4-2.) Set the screws aside in a safe place.

Step 4 Lift the front edge of the cover until it clears the front of the chassis. (See Figure 4-1 or Figure 4-2.)

Step 5 Pull the cover toward you until the metal tabs on the rear edge separate from the chassis bottom. (See Figure 4-1 or Figure 4-2.)

Step 6 Lift the cover until it is free from the chassis and set it aside.

When you are ready to replace the cover, see the "Replacing the Cover on the Cisco 3620 or 3640 Router" section.

Removing the Cisco 3660 Mainboard Tray

Use the following procedure to remove the mainboard tray:

Step 1 Power OFF the router. However, to channel ESD voltages to ground, do not unplug the power cable.

Warning Before opening the chassis, disconnect the telephone-network cables to avoid contact with telephone-network voltages.

Step 2 Remove all network interface cables from the mainboard tray's rear panel.

Step 3 Place the router so that the rear panel is facing you.

There are two sets of screws on the mainboard rear panel: one set of captive screws, and one set of Torx screws. (See Figure 4-3.)

Caution Do not remove or loosen the Torx screws.

Step 4 Loosen the two captive screws located in the upper corners. (See part 1, Figure 4-3.)

Step 5 Swing the two tray levers out, and slide the mainboard tray out of the chassis. (See parts 2 and 3, Figure 4-3.)

Caution The mainboard is an ESD-sensitive component. To avoid damage, observe all ESD precautions.

When you are ready to replace the mainboard tray, see the "Replacing the Cisco 3660 Mainboard Tray" section.

Replacing DRAM and SDRAM

Cisco 3600 series routers use two types of dynamic random access memory (DRAM):

• DRAM SIMMs (Used in Cisco 3620 and Cisco 3640 Routers)

• SDRAM DIMMs (Used in the Cisco 3660 Router)

DRAM SIMMs (Used in Cisco 3620 and Cisco 3640 Routers)

This section describes how to upgrade DRAM single in-line memory modules (SIMMs) in Cisco 3620 and 3640 routers. You might need to upgrade the DRAM SIMMs for the following reasons:

• You upgraded the Cisco IOS feature set or release and it requires additional DRAM.

• The router maintains large routing tables or other memory-intensive features, such as spoofing or protocol translations.

The Cisco 3620 and 3640 routers each contain four 72-pin SIMM sockets (or banks) for DRAM. Each socket can be filled with a single 32-bit-wide, 72-pin DRAM SIMM. You can configure DRAM as a mixture of primary or main memory, which is reserved for the CPU, and shared memory, which is used for data transmitted or received by modules and WAN interface cards.

Cisco 3640(R4700) processor (revision 0x00) with 24576K/8192K bytes of memory.
 

Only certain combinations of DRAM SIMMs are permitted. These combinations are shown in Table 4-1 for 32-bit configurations used in Cisco 3620 routers, Table 4-2 for 32-bit configurations used in Cisco 3640 routers, and Table 4-3 for 64-bit configurations used in Cisco 3640 routers.

Follow these rules to use 64-bit mode DRAM configuration:

• SIMMs in banks 0 and 1 must be the same size (in MB) and have the same access time (in nanoseconds).

• SIMMs in banks 2 and 3 must also be the same size and have the same access time.

• SIMMs in banks 2 and 3 must be less than or equal to the size of the SIMMs in banks 0 and 1.

Figure 4-4 or Figure 4-5 shows the DRAM SIMM locations in your router.

Table 4-2: 32-Bit DRAM Configuration for Cisco 3640 Routers

Bank 0 (SIMM 0)	Bank 1 (SIMM 1)	Bank 2 (SIMM 2)	Bank 3 (SIMM 3)	Total Memory
4 MB	4 MB	8 MB	-	16 MB
16 MB	-	-	-	16 MB
4 MB	16 MB	-	-	20 MB
8 MB	8 MB	4 MB	-	20 MB
16 MB	4 MB	-	-	20 MB
8 MB	16 MB	-	-	24 MB
8 MB	8 MB	8 MB	-	24 MB
16 MB	8 MB	-	-	24 MB
8 MB	8 MB	4 MB	8 MB	28 MB
8 MB	8 MB	8 MB	4 MB	28 MB
8 MB	8 MB	16 MB	-	32 MB
16 MB	16 MB	4 MB	-	36 MB
16 MB	16 MB	8 MB	-	40 MB
16 MB	16 MB	8 MB	4 MB	44 MB
16 MB	16 MB	4 MB	8 MB	44 MB
16 MB	16 MB	16 MB	4 MB	52 MB
16 MB	16 MB	4 MB	16 MB	52 MB
16 MB	16 MB	16 MB	8 MB	56 MB
16 MB	16 MB	8 MB	16 MB	56 MB

DRAM SIMM Orientation

SIMMs are manufactured with a polarization notch to ensure proper orientation and alignment holes to ensure proper positioning. Figure 4-6 shows the polarization notch and alignment holes on a SIMM. DRAM SIMMs are installed with the connector edge down and the polarization notch near the front of the chassis.

Caution To avoid damaging ESD-sensitive components, observe all ESD precautions. To avoid damaging the underlying mainboard, do not use excessive force when you remove or replace SIMMs.

Removing DRAM SIMMS

Follow these steps to remove DRAM SIMMs:

Step 1 Attach an ESD-preventive wrist strap and ensure that it makes good contact with your skin. Connect the equipment end of the wrist strap to the metal back plate of the chassis, avoiding contact with the connectors.

Step 2 On the mainboard, locate the DRAM SIMM sockets shown in Figure 4-4 or Figure 4-5.

Caution Handle SIMMs by the non-connector edges only. SIMMs are ESD-sensitive components and can be damaged by mishandling.

Step 3 Remove one SIMM at a time, beginning with the SIMM in bank 3. To lift the SIMM out of its socket, pull the locking spring clips on both sides outward and tilt the SIMM toward the right side of the chassis, until it is free of the clips. (See Figure 4-7.)

Step 4 Hold the SIMM by the edges with your thumb and index finger and lift it out of the socket. Place the removed SIMM in an antistatic bag to protect it from ESD damage.

Step 5 Repeat Step 3 and Step 4 for each SIMM.

After you have removed the existing SIMMs, install the new SIMMs as described in the next section, "Installing DRAM SIMMs."

Installing DRAM SIMMs

Follow this procedure to install DRAM SIMMs:

Step 1 Attach an ESD-preventive wrist strap and ensure that it makes good contact with your skin. Connect the equipment end of the wrist strap to the metal back plate of the chassis, avoiding contact with the connectors.

Step 2 On the mainboard, locate the DRAM SIMM sockets shown in Figure 4-4 or Figure 4-5.

Caution Handle SIMMs by the edges only. SIMMs are ESD-sensitive components and can be damaged by mishandling.

Step 3 Hold the SIMM with the polarization notch on the right, near the front of the chassis, and with the connector edge at the bottom.

Step 4 Beginning with bank 0, insert the SIMM into the socket at an angle, tilted toward the right side of the chassis. Rock the SIMM into a vertical position (see Figure 4-8), using the minimum amount of force required. When the SIMM is properly seated, the socket guide posts fit through the alignment holes, and the locking spring clips click into place.

Step 5 Ensure that each SIMM is straight (perpendicular to the socket), and that the alignment holes (as shown in Figure 4-8) line up with the plastic socket guides on the socket.

Caution It is normal to feel some resistance when installing a SIMM, but do not use excessive force on the SIMM, and do not touch the surface components.

Step 6 Repeat Step 3 through Step 5 for each SIMM.

When you finish replacing SIMMs, proceed to the "Replacing the Cover on the Cisco 3620 or 3640 Router" section.

SDRAM DIMMs (Used in the Cisco 3660 Router)

This section describes how to upgrade synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM) dual in-line memory modules (DIMMs) in the Cisco 3660 router. You might need to upgrade the SDRAM DIMMs for the following reasons:

• You upgraded the Cisco IOS feature set or release and it requires additional SDRAM.

• The router maintains large routing tables or other memory-intensive features, such as spoofing or protocol translations.

The Cisco 3660 router contains two 168-pin DIMM sockets (two banks) for SDRAM. Each socket can be filled with a single 64-bit-wide, 168-pin SDRAM DIMM. You can configure SDRAM as a mixture of primary or main memory, which is reserved for the CPU, and shared memory, which is used for data transmitted or received by modules and WAN interface cards.

Cisco 3660(R527x) processor (revision 0x00) with 24576K/8192K bytes of memory.
 

Your router supports both parity and non-parity PC-100 DIMMs ranging in capacity from 16 MB to 128 MB. Only certain combinations of SDRAM DIMMs are permitted. (See Table 4-4.)

Figure 4-9 shows the SDRAM DIMM locations in your router.

SDRAM DIMM Orientation

DIMMs are manufactured with polarization notches to ensure proper orientation and alignment holes to ensure proper positioning. Figure 4-10 shows the polarization notches and alignment holes on a DIMM. SDRAM DIMMs are installed with the connector edge down and the polarization notches toward the rear of the chassis.

Caution To avoid damaging ESD-sensitive components, observe all ESD precautions. To avoid damaging the underlying mainboard, do not use excessive force when you remove or replace DIMMs.

Removing SDRAM DIMMS

Follow these steps to remove SDRAM DIMMs:

Step 1 Attach an ESD-preventive wrist strap and ensure that it makes good contact with your skin. Connect the equipment end of the wrist strap to the metal back plate of the chassis, avoiding contact with the connectors.

Step 2 On the mainboard, locate the SDRAM DIMM sockets shown in Figure 4-9.

Caution Handle DIMMs by the edges only. DIMMs are ESD-sensitive components and can be damaged by mishandling.

Step 3 Remove the DIMM by pushing the locking spring clips on both sides outward. This ejects the DIMM from its socket. (See Figure 4-11.)

Step 5 If necessary, repeat Step 3 and Step 4 for the other DIMM.

After you have removed the existing DIMMs, install the new DIMMs as described in the next section, "Installing SDRAM DIMMs."

Installing SDRAM DIMMs

Follow this procedure to install SDRAM DIMMs:

Step 1 Attach an ESD-preventive wrist strap and ensure that it makes good contact with your skin. Connect the equipment end of the wrist strap to the metal back plate of the chassis, avoiding contact with the connectors.

Step 2 On the mainboard, locate the SDRAM DIMM sockets shown in Figure 4-9.

Caution Handle DIMMs by the non-connector edges only. DIMMs are ESD-sensitive components and can be damaged by mishandling.

Step 3 Hold the DIMM with the polarization notch on the right, near the rear of the chassis, and with the connector edge at the bottom.

Step 4 Beginning with socket 0, insert the DIMM perpendicular to the socket. Push firmly into place (see Figure 4-11), using the minimum amount of force required. When the DIMM is properly seated, the socket guide posts fit through the alignment holes, and the locking spring clips click into place.

Step 5 Ensure that each DIMM is straight (perpendicular to the socket). (See Figure 4-11.)

Caution It is normal to feel some resistance when installing a DIMM, but do not use excessive force on the DIMM, and do not touch the surface components.

Step 6 Repeat Step 3 through Step 5 for each DIMM.

When you finish replacing DIMMs, and have installed all internal components, proceed to the "Replacing the Cisco 3660 Mainboard Tray" section.

Replacing Flash Memory SIMMs

This section describes how to upgrade the Flash memory SIMMs. The system code (Cisco IOS software) is stored in the Flash memory SIMMs. You might need to replace or add Flash memory SIMMs to upgrade to a new Cisco IOS software feature set.

The router contains one or two 80-pin Flash memory SIMMs. You can upgrade Flash memory by replacing the existing 4-MB SIMM with an 8- or 16-MB SIMM, or by adding a SIMM to the second Flash memory socket. You can install from 4 to 32 MB of Flash memory. The size of the SIMMs in the two Flash memory sockets need not be the same.

Table 4-5 lists possible Flash memory SIMM configurations and the resulting total Flash memory.

Table 4-5: Flash Memory SIMM Configurations

Bank 0	Bank 1	Total Memory
4 MB	-	4 MB
4 MB	4 MB	8 MB
4 MB	8 MB	12 MB
4 MB	16 MB	20 MB
8 MB	-	8 MB
8 MB	4 MB	12 MB
8 MB	8 MB	16 MB
8 MB	16 MB	24 MB
16 MB	-	16 MB
16 MB	4 MB	20 MB
16 MB	8 MB	24 MB
16 MB	16 MB	32 MB
32 MB	32 MB	64 MB1

1The 64 MB configuration is only available on the Cisco 3660 router.

Flash memory SIMMs are manufactured with a polarization notch to ensure proper orientation and alignment holes to ensure proper positioning, similar to that shown in Figure 4-6. Flash memory SIMMs are installed with the connector edge down and the polarization notch near the front of the chassis.

Caution To avoid damaging ESD-sensitive components, observe all ESD precautions. To avoid damaging the underlying mainboard, do not use excessive force when you remove or replace SIMMs.

Figure 4-12 through Figure 4-14 shows the location of the Flash memory SIMMs on your router's mainboard.

Removing Flash Memory SIMMs

Follow this procedure to remove an existing Flash memory SIMM:

Step 1 Attach an ESD-preventive wrist strap and ensure that it makes good contact with your skin. Connect the equipment end of the wrist strap to the metal back plate of the chassis, avoiding contact with the connectors.

Step 2 Locate the Flash memory SIMM sockets on the mainboard. (See Figure 4-12 through Figure 4-14.)

Caution Handle SIMMs by the non-connector edges only. SIMMs are ESD-sensitive components and can be damaged by mishandling.

Step 3 To lift the Flash memory SIMM out of its socket, pull the locking spring clips on both sides outward and tilt the SIMM toward the left side of the chassis, free of the clips. (See Figure 4-15.)

Installing Flash Memory SIMMs

Follow this procedure to install Flash memory SIMMs:

Step 1 Locate the Flash memory SIMM sockets on the mainboard. (See Figure 4-12 through Figure 4-14.)

Caution Handle SIMMs by the non-connector edges only. SIMMs are ESD-sensitive components and can be damaged by mishandling.

Step 2 Hold the SIMM with the polarization notch on the right and the component side away from you, with the connector edge at the bottom.

Step 3 Beginning with bank 0, insert the Flash memory SIMM into its connector slot at an angle, tilted toward the left side of the chassis. (See Figure 4-16.) Rock the SIMM into a vertical position using the minimum amount of force required. When the SIMM is properly seated, the socket guide posts fit in the alignment holes, and the locking springs click into place. Use a minimum of force.

Caution It is normal to feel some resistance, but do not use excessive force on the SIMM and do not touch the surface components to avoid damaging them.

Step 4 Check the alignment of each SIMM to make sure that it is straight and that the alignment holes are lined up with the plastic socket guides.

When you finish replacing Flash memory SIMMs, and have installed all internal components, proceed to either of these sections:

• Replacing the Cover on the Cisco 3620 or 3640 Router

• Replacing the Cisco 3660 Mainboard Tray

Replacing the ROM

To upgrade the router ROM software to a new ROM monitor version, you must replace the existing ROM.

You will need the following tools:

• ROM extraction tool or a small flat-blade screwdriver

• Needlenose pliers

• One 32-pin plastic leaded chip carrier (PLCC) for removing the ROM chip from the Cisco 3660 mainboard

Follow this procedure to replace the ROM:

Step 1 Attach an ESD-preventive wrist strap and ensure that it makes good contact with your skin. Connect the equipment end of the wrist strap to the metal backplane of the chassis, avoiding contact with the connectors.

Step 2 Access the mainboard by following the procedures in one of the following sections:

• Removing the Cisco 3620 or Cisco 3640 Router Cover

• Removing the Cisco 3660 Mainboard Tray

Caution Correct placement of the ROM is crucial. If improperly positioned, the new component could be damaged when the router is powered on. Read all instructions before proceeding. To prevent damage to the ROM from ESD (when handling the router and its components), follow the ESD procedures described in the "Preventing Electrostatic Discharge Damage" section. Be careful not to damage or scratch the printed circuit card under the ROM.

Step 3 Locate the ROM on the mainboard. (See Figure 4-17 through Figure 4-19.)

If you have a Cisco 3660 router, gently remove the old ROM with a 32-pin PLCC extractor, and set it aside. (See Figure 4-20.)

Step 5 If you have a Cisco 3620 or Cisco 3640 router, orient and insert the new ROM in its socket (shown in Figure 4-17 and Figure 4-18), being careful to not bend or crush any of the bottom pins. To straighten out a bent pin, use needlenose pliers. Align the notch in the new ROM with the notch in the ROM socket, ignoring the orientation of the label.

If you have a Cisco 3660 router, orient and insert the new ROM in its socket as shown in Figure 4-21, being careful to not bend or crush any of the bottom pins. To straighten out a bent pin, use needlenose pliers. Align the notch in the new ROM with the notch in the ROM socket, ignoring the orientation of the label.

Caution The notch on the ROM must match the notch on the mainboard socket. Installing the ROM backward will damage the ROM, the router, or both.

Testing ROM Installation

Test your installation by rebooting the router. If you installed the ROM correctly, the router will boot into the ROM monitor or the Cisco IOS software.

If you suspect that the ROM is inserted incorrectly, remove and reinstall the ROM as described in the "Replacing the ROM" section. Reboot the router again.

If you are still having problems after following the steps in this procedure, refer to Appendix A, "Troubleshooting."

When you finish replacing the ROM, and have installed all internal components, proceed to:

• Replacing the Cover on the Cisco 3620 or 3640 Router

• Replacing the Cisco 3660 Mainboard Tray

Closing the Router

Caution Before closing the router make sure that all cables are securely tucked in, and are not in danger of being pinched or cut.

Replacing the Cover on the Cisco 3620 or 3640 Router

This section describes how to replace the router cover. You need a number 2 Phillips screwdriver to complete this procedure:

Step 2 Hold the cover so the tabs at the rear of the cover are aligned with the chassis bottom. (See Figure 4-22 or Figure 4-23.)

Step 5 Fasten the cover with the three screws you set aside in Step 3 of the "Removing the Cisco 3620 or Cisco 3640 Router Cover" section.

Step 6 Reinstall the chassis on a rack, wall, or desktop.

Step 7 Reinstall network interface cables.

Step 8 Power ON the router.

Warning After wiring the DC power supply, remove the tape from the circuit breaker switch handle and reinstate power by moving the handle of the circuit breaker to the ON position.

If the router does not power on, see Appendix A, "Troubleshooting."

Replacing the Cisco 3660 Mainboard Tray

This section describes how to replace the mainboard tray. You need a number 2 Phillips screwdriver to complete this procedure:

Step 2 Hold the tray so that the tabs at the tray's lower corners are aligned with the ledge in the chassis opening. (See part 1 of Figure 4-24.)

Step 3 Slide the mainboard tray into the chassis until firm contact is made with the backplane. (See part 2 in Figure 4-24.)

Step 4 Push the levers at the lower corners of the mainboard inward. (See part 3 in Figure 4-24.)

Step 5 Tighten the two captive screws previously loosened in Step 3 of the "Removing the Cisco 3660 Mainboard Tray" section. (See part 4 in Figure 4-24.)

Step 6 Reinstall the chassis on a rack or desktop.

Step 7 Reconnect network interface cables.

Step 8 Power ON the router.

If the router does not power on, see Appendix A, "Troubleshooting."

Installing and Configuring Flash Memory Cards

This section describes how to install Flash memory cards in the router and includes selected configuration examples for common procedures. For further configuration information, refer to the Cisco IOS configuration guides and command references.

This section includes the following subsections:

• Installing a Flash Memory Card

• Removing a Flash Memory Card

• Partitioning a Flash Memory Card

• Displaying the Contents of a Flash Memory Card

• Copying a File from System Flash Memory to a Flash Memory Card

• Copying a Running Configuration File to a Flash Memory Card

• Copying a File from a Flash Memory Card to System Flash Memory

• Copying a File between Slots

• Booting from a Flash Memory Card

• Erasing the Contents of a Flash Memory Card

Caution Before starting any procedures in this section, follow the ESD guidelines described in the "Preventing Electrostatic Discharge Damage" section.

Installing a Flash Memory Card

The router includes two Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) slots. You can install 4-, 8-, 16-, or 32-MB Flash memory cards in these slots.

Follow these steps to install a Flash memory card:

Step 1 Verify that the Flash memory card's write-protect switch is OFF.
The write-protect switch is at the top left edge of the card, when you view it with the label side toward you. (See Figure 4-25.)

Step 2 Locate the PCMCIA slots, labeled 1 and 0, at the bottom right corner of the front panel of the chassis. (See Figure 4-26 and Figure 4-27.)

---

Note You can install a Flash memory card into either slot. It is not necessary to populate slot 0 before slot 1.

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Step 3 If you have a Cisco 3620 or Cisco 3640 router, insert the connector end of the Flash memory card, label side up, into one of the PCMCIA slots until the card is seated in the connector. (See Figure 4-26.)

If you have a Cisco 3660 router, move the slot button to the front of the router and then insert the connector end of the Flash memory card, label side up, into the PCMCIA slot until the card is seated in the connector. (See Figure 4-27.)

This note applies to Cisco 3660 routers:

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Note After installing the PCMCIA card, the slot button can be moved to the side to prevent accidental ejection of the card.

---

This note applies to Cisco 3620 and 3640 routers:

---

Note The card does not fit completely into the router; part of the card projects from the slot.

---

Removing a Flash Memory Card

Follow these steps to remove a Flash memory card:

Step 1 On a Cisco 3620 or Cisco 3640 router, grasp the card near the slot and pull it free from the connector. (See Figure 4-28.)

On a Cisco 3660 router, press the button next to the PCMCIA slot to be evacuated. (See Figure 4-29.)

Caution Do not remove the Flash memory card while it is performing a read or write operation, because the router will shut down.

Step 2 Place the removed Flash memory card on an antistatic surface or in a static shielding bag.

Partitioning a Flash Memory Card

Flash memory cards ordered from Cisco Systems ship blank (without software installed). Before copying files to a Flash memory card, you might want to partition it.

Follow these steps to partition a Flash memory card:

Step 1 Enter privileged EXEC mode:

Router> enable 
Password: <password>
Router# 
 

Step 2 Enter global configuration mode:

Router# configure terminal 
Router(config)#
 

Step 3 Enter the partition {slot0: | slot1:} [partition-number] [partition1-size] [partition2-size] command:

Router(config)# partition slot1: 1 2 4
 

The partition size is expressed in megabytes (MB).

Displaying the Contents of a Flash Memory Card

To display the contents of a Flash memory card, enter the show {slot0: | slot1:} command, for example:

Router# show slot1:
 
PCMCIA Slot1 flash directory, partition 1:
File  Length   Name/status
  1   1933052  c3640-i-mz.111-6.3.AA
[1933116 bytes used, 6455492 available, 8388608 total]
8192K bytes of processor board PCMCIA Slot1 flash (Read/Write)
 
PCMCIA Slot1 flash directory, partition 2:
File  Length   Name/status
  1   3399444  c3640-j-mz.111-7.AA
[3399508 bytes used, 794796 available, 4194304 total]
4096K bytes of processor board PCMCIA Slot1 flash (Read/Write)
 
PCMCIA Slot1 flash directory, partition 3:
File  Length   Name/status
  1   2359     running-config
[2424 bytes used, 4191880 available, 4194304 total]
4096K bytes of processor board PCMCIA Slot1 flash (Read/Write) 
 

Similarly, you can display the contents of system (onboard) Flash memory by entering the showflash: command.

Copying a File from System Flash Memory to a Flash Memory Card

You can use a Flash memory card to store a backup copy of a Cisco IOS image or other file. Follow these steps to copy a file from system (onboard) Flash memory to a Flash memory card:

Step 1 Enter privileged EXEC mode:

Router> enable 
Password: <password> 
Router#
 

Step 2 Enter the copy flash:[partition:filename] {slot0: | slot1:}[partition:filename] command. Replace partition with the partition number and filename with the name of the file, for example:

Router# copy flash:2:TESTFILE slot0:3:TESTFILE
 
PCMCIA Slot0 flash directory, partition 3:
No files in PCMCIA Slot0 flash
[0 bytes used, 4194304 available, 4194304 total]
Verifying checksum for 'TESTFILE' (file # 1)...  OK
Erase flash device before writing? [confirm] n

---

Note If you omit the partition and filename variables, you are prompted for them.

---

Step 3 Press Return or type y to erase the current contents of the partition, or enter n to save the contents. Then confirm your selection:

Copy 'TESTFILE' from flash: device
  as 'TESTFILE' into slot0: device WITHOUT erase? [yes/no] y
!
 [OK - 68/4194304 bytes]
 
Flash device copy took 00:00:05 [hh:mm:ss]
Verifying checksum...  OK (0x4ACD) 

Copying a Running Configuration File to a Flash Memory Card

You can also use a Flash memory card to store a backup copy of a configuration file. Follow these steps to copy a configuration file to a Flash memory card:

Step 1 Enter privileged EXEC mode:

Router> enable 
Password: <password> 
Router#
 

Step 2 Enter the copy running-config {slot0: | slot1:}[partition:filename] command. Replace partition with the partition number and filename with the name of the file, for example:

Router# copy running-config slot0:3:myconfig
 
PCMCIA Slot0 flash directory, partition 3:
File  Length   Name/status
  1   68       TESTFILE
[132 bytes used, 4194172 available, 4194304 total]
Building configuration...
 
Erase flash device before writing? [confirm] n

---

Note If you omit the partition and filename variables, you are prompted for them.

---

Step 3 Press Return or enter y to erase the current contents of the partition, or enter n to save the contents. Then confirm your selection:

Copy 'running-config'
  as 'myconfig' into flash device WITHOUT erase? [yes/no] y
!
 [OK - 922/4194172 bytes]
 
Verifying checksum...  OK (0xC4D4)
Flash device copy took 00:00:00 [hh:mm:ss]
Router# 

Copying a File from a Flash Memory Card to System Flash Memory

You can copy files from a Flash memory card to system (onboard) Flash memory (for instance, when restoring a backup). Follow these steps to copy a file from a Flash memory card to system Flash memory:

Step 1 Enter privileged EXEC mode:

Router> enable 
Password: <password> 
Router#
 

Step 2 Enter the copy {slot0: | slot1:}[partition:filename] flash:[partition:filename] command. Replace partition with the partition number and filename with the name of the file, for example:

Router# copy slot0:3:TESTFILE flash:2:TESTFILE2
 
System flash directory, partition 2:
File  Length   Name/status
  1   68       TESTFILE
  2   3399444  myfile
[3399640 bytes used, 794664 available, 4194304 total]
Verifying checksum for 'TESTFILE' (file # 1)...  OK
Erase flash device before writing? [confirm] n

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Note If you omit the partition and filename variables, you are prompted for them.

---

Step 3 Press Return or type y to erase the current contents of the partition, or enter n to save the contents. Then confirm your selection:

Copy 'TESTFILE' from slot0: device
  as 'TESTFILE2' into flash: device WITHOUT erase? [yes/no] y
!
 [OK - 68/794664 bytes]
 
Flash device copy took 00:00:04 [hh:mm:ss]
Verifying checksum...  OK (0x4ACD)
Router# 

Copying a File between Slots

This section describes how to copy a file from one Flash memory card to another Flash memory card in the other slot.

Follow these steps to copy a file between two slots:

Step 1 Enter privileged EXEC mode as follows:

Router> enable 
Password: <password>
Router# 
 

Step 2 Insert the Flash memory card that contains the source file into the slot labeled 0.

Step 3 Insert a second Flash memory card into the slot labeled 1. This card does not have to be partitioned.

Step 4 Enter the copy {slot0: | slot1:}[partition:filename]{slot0: | slot1:} [partition:filename] command to copy a file from one slot to the other. In the following example, there are no partitions on the destination Flash memory card:

Router# copy slot0:3:TESTFILE slot1:
 
PCMCIA Slot1 flash directory:
File  Length   Name/status
  1   1783471 FILE1
[1783536 bytes used, 313616 available, 2097152 total]
Destination file name [TESTFILE]?
Verifying checksum for 'TESTFILE' (file # 1)...  OK
Erase flash device before writing? [confirm] n

---

Note If you omit the partition and filename variables, you are prompted for them.

---

Step 5 Press Return or enter y to erase the current contents of the destination partition (if any), or enter n to save the contents. Then confirm your selection:

Copy 'TESTFILE' from slot0: device
  as 'TESTFILE' into slot1: device WITHOUT erase? [yes/no] y
!
 [OK - 68/313616 bytes]
 
Flash device copy took 00:00:05 [hh:mm:ss]
Verifying checksum...  OK (0x4ACD)
Router# 
 

Booting from a Flash Memory Card

You can configure the router to boot from a Cisco IOS image on the Flash memory card, rather than from system Flash memory. The router boots the image on the Flash memory card, copies the image to onboard DRAM, and then executes the image from DRAM. The router does not execute the image directly from the Flash memory card.

Follow these steps to specify the image on the Flash memory card as the boot image:

Step 1 Enter privileged EXEC mode:

Router> enable 
Password: password
Router# 
 

Step 2 Enter global configuration mode:

Router# configure terminal 
Router(config)#
 

Step 3 Enter the boot system flash {slot0: | slot1:}[partition:filename] command to specify the boot image location and name. In the following example, the boot image is located on the Flash memory card in the 0 slot, partition 3, and the filename is new.image:

Router(config)# no boot system 
Router(config)# boot system flash slot0:3:new.image 

---

Note If you omit the partition and filename variables, you are prompted for them.

---

Step 4 Set the configuration register to 0x2102 (the default setting), which indicates that the router should attempt to boot a Cisco IOS image from Flash memory:

Router(config)# config-register 0x2102 
 

Step 5 Exit global configuration mode:

Router(config)# exit
Router#
 

Step 6 Enter the copy running-config startup-config command to save the configuration changes to NVRAM.

Step 7 Enter the reload command to reload the router. When the router reloads, it will boot the image new.image from the Flash memory card in slot 0.

Erasing the Contents of a Flash Memory Card

To erase a partition or the entire contents of a Flash memory card, enter the command erase {slot0: | slot1:} [partition:]. Replace partition with the partition number. You cannot specify a filename. The following example erases the contents of partition 2 of the card in slot 1.

Router# show slot1:
 
PCMCIA Slot1 flash directory, partition 1:
File		 	 Length	 	 Name/status
1	 	 	 	 	 1583	 	 	 	 test1
[1648 bytes used, 4192656 available, 4194304 total]
4096K bytes of processor board PCMCIA Slot1 flash (Read/Write)
 
PCMCIA Slot1 flash directory, partition 2:
File		 	 Length	 	 Name/status
1	 	 	 	 	 1611	 	 	 	 running-config
2	 	 	 	 	 1583	 	 	 	 configfile
[3324 bytes used, 4190980 available, 4194304 total]
4096K bytes of processor board PCMCIA Slot1 flash (Read/Write)
 
Router# erase slot1:2:
Erasing the slot1:2 filesystem will remove all files! Continue? [confirm]
Erasing device... eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee ...erased
Erase of slot1:2: complete
 
Router# 
 

Posted: Tue Nov 30 15:38:17 PST 1999
Copyright 1989-1999©Cisco Systems Inc.