As Cisco evolves its console ports, many of its devices now feature USB Mini-B ports for console connections, leaving behind the traditional RJ-45. If you’re working with newer Cisco devices like the Catalyst 2960 Series, Catalyst 9300, or Cisco 8000 Series routers, you’ll need the Aexus USB Type A to Mini-B Console Cable to manage them effectively.
In this post, we’ll explore why this cable is crucial for Cisco device management, list supported Cisco devices, and walk you through connecting it.
🖧 Supported Cisco Devices
The Aexus USB Type A to Mini-B Console Cable is compatible with various Cisco devices that feature a USB Mini-B console port. This includes:
Cisco 2960 Series Switches
Cisco 3560-X & 3750-X Switches
Cisco 9200 Series (excluding 9200CX)
Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series
Cisco 1000 & 9000 Series Routers
Cisco 6800ia Series Switches
Cisco 8000 Series Routers
Before connecting, ensure your device uses a USB Mini-B port. Cisco’s official documentation or hardware manuals can help confirm this.
🔍 Why Choose the Aexus USB Console Cable?
The Aexus USB Type A to Mini-B Console Cable simplifies direct console access. It’s specifically designed for Cisco’s newer models that utilize the USB Mini-B console port, which is found in the devices listed above. Let’s break down why it’s a great choice for network administrators:
Plug-and-play functionality: This cable doesn’t require additional drivers for most systems. For Windows, you may need the Cisco USB Console Driver, which is easily downloadable from Cisco’s official site.
Reachability : This cable is designed with a small mini-USB connector enclosure that helps you navigate through tight cabling which is often the case at the front of your switch or router.
Wide Compatibility: Works with terminal software like PuTTY, Tera Term, and SecureCRT for seamless management.
🧑💻 How to Connect the Aexus USB Console Cable
1. Install Cisco USB Console Driver (only if your Windows doesn’t detect it)
Download the Cisco USB Console Driver from the Cisco website.
Follow the installation instructions for your version of Windows. macOS and Linux usually don’t require additional drivers.
2. Connect the Cable
USB Type A end: Plug the USB Type A end into your computer’s USB port.
USB Mini-B end: Connect this end to the USB Mini-B console port on your Cisco device.
Tip: Ensure your Cisco device is powered on before making the connection.
Image Source: Cisco Hardware Installation Guide
3. Identify the COM Port (for Windows Users)
Open Device Manager on your PC.
Expand the Ports (COM & LPT) section.
You should see the “Cisco USB Console” listed. Note the COM port number (e.g., COM3).
4. Set Up a Console Session
Using a terminal emulator like PuTTY, Tera Term, or SecureCRT, configure your session with these settings:
Baud Rate: 9600
Data Bits: 8
Parity: None
Stop Bits: 1
Flow Control: None
For macOS or Linux: Use the minicom command to connect to the device. Follow the steps below:
macOS/Linux Connection via Minicom
Identify the device by running the following command:
On macOS: ls /dev/tty.usb*
On Linux: ls /dev/ttyUSB* # or ls /dev/ttyACM*
Launch Minicom and specify the correct device and baud rate (9600):
Run the following command: sudo minicom -b 9600 -o -D /dev/tty.usbmodemXXXX
Replace /dev/tty.usbmodemXXXX with the actual device name you found in the previous step (for example, /dev/ttyUSB0 on Linux).
The Aexus USB Type A to Mini-B Console Cable is an essential tool for network engineers working with Cisco devices that feature the USB Mini-B console port. It’s designed for simplicity, reachability, and compatibility with a wide range of Cisco models, including the Catalyst 2960 Series, Catalyst 9300, and Cisco 9200CX.
By following the steps above, you can easily connect to your Cisco device, manage configurations, and troubleshoot with ease. Don’t forget to check out the Aexus USB Console Cable on Amazon for quick delivery and affordable prices.
Have any questions or need further guidance? Leave a comment below, and we’ll help you out!
