Abstract: A system and method are provided for modifying an existing HDSL system to allow for remote access to performance monitoring information stored on each HDSL circuit card. This is accomplished by attaching a cable harness to an existing chassis. A cable harness containing a number of data lines equal to the number of circuit cards in the chassis is housed in a moveable bar which protects the harness and allows removal or insertion of HDSL circuit cards. Each data line attaches to a data port on the individual circuit cards, and the cable harness terminates to a multiplexer (shelf multiplexing unit). A system controller unit provides power and signaling to the shelf multiplexing unit, instructing the multiplexing unit to select an individual data line connected to an individual circuit card. Then utilizing a mutually agreed upon communications means, the system controller unit extends the HDSL data port connection to a remote location.