2801 / HWIC-16A Access Server Kit
A non-traditional access server solution by using an 2801 router with an installed HWIC-16A module card, then if you need a cable you can add one CAB-HD8-ASYNC cable for 8 connections or two cables for 16 connections in the drop down. Just like the 2509, this will give you a central device that can support up to 8 connections. You will also get the benefit of having an extra router and its dual fast ethernet interfaces. The CAB-HD8-ASYNC cables are also longer than the included octal for the traditional access servers, giving you about 10 feet to work with. Overall, we think this is a great alternative solution and gives you some great experience in exploring non-direct solutions to your network.
***Please note that standard octal cables used for the 2509 or 2511 are not compatible with the HWIC-xxA cards. These require the CAB-HD8-ASYNC cables***