The 128-port remote asynchronous node (RAN) is a complete subsystem. The RAN receives data packets from the adapter at data rates of up to 1.2 Mbps, and then distributes the data, as appropriate, to the 16 EIA 232 ports. Data received by the EIA 232 ports is similarly divided into packets and sent back to the adapter over the high-speed synchronous line. The EIA 232 ports operate at data rates of up to 57, 600 bps.For local applications, where the work groups are not located more than 300 m (1000 ft) from the system, RANs can be connected to a 128-port asynchronous adapter through 4- or 8-conductor twisted-pair cable (the 8-conductor cable is recommended). With the 8-conductor cable, data is transferred between RANs and the adapter at rates of up to 1.2 Mbps. With 4-wire cable, the maximum synchronous data rate is 460 Kbps.