The Cisco Communication Interface Module (CIM) can extend the controller area network (CAN) bus of the ONS 15252 MCU to another MCU or to an ONS 15201 SCU. This arrangement allows several network elements (NE) to work together as a larger functional unit.The CIM is also the interface to the Maintenance Manager (MM) software package. This interface makes any PC equipped with required hardware a platform for ONS 15200 system surveillance, troubleshooting, and maintenance. An EIA/TIA-232 (none standard) port (Tx, Rx, Ground) is available on the CIM, which is accessible with an additional CIM adapter cable.