Network Requirements. Cabletron Systems 6H203-24, 6H253-13

2

Network Requirements

Before installing the SmartSwitch modules, review the requirements and specifications referred to in this chapter concerning the following:

•

SmartTrunk ( Section 2.1

)

• 10BASE-T Twisted Pair Network (

Section 2.2

)

• 100BASE-TX Twisted Pair Network (

Section 2.3

)

The network installation must meet the guidelines in this chapter and in the documents referenced in this chapter to ensure satisfactory performance of the equipment. Failure to follow the guidelines may produce poor network performance.

NOTE The Cabletron Systems Cabling Guide , referred to in the following sections, can be found on the Cabletron Systems World Wide Web site: http://www.cabletron.com/

2.1

SmartTrunk

To connect SmartSwitch modules to a network so they can take advantage of the SmartTrunk feature, there are certain rules concerning port connections and configurations that must be followed for proper operation. Refer to the Cabletron Systems SmartTrunk User’s Guide for additional information.

2.2

10BASE-T NETWORK

When connecting a 10BASE-T segment to any of the SmartSwitch ports, ensure that the network meets the Ethernet network requirements of the IEEE 802.3 standard for 10BASE-T. Refer to the

Cabletron Systems Cabling Guide for details.

NOTE

If a port is to operate at 100 Mbps, Category 5 cabling must be used. For 10 Mbps operation only, Category 3 cabling can be used. Refer to

Section 2.3

for information

about 100BASE-TX networks and cabling.

Network Requirements 2-1

100BASE-TX Network

2.3

100BASE-TX NETWORK

The fixed ports of the SmartSwitch provide an RJ21 connection that supports Category 5 UTP cabling. The device at the other end of the twisted pair segment must meet IEEE 802.3u

100BASE-TX Fast Ethernet network requirements for the devices to operate at 100 Mbps. Refer to the Cabletron Systems Cabling Guide for details.

NOTE

The fixed ports of the SmartSwitch support Category 5 UTP cabling with an impedance between 85 and 111 ohms for 10 and 100 Mbps operation.

SmartSwitch modules are capable of operating at either 10 or 100 Mbps. The

SmartSwitch automatically senses the speed of the other device and adjusts its speed accordingly.

2-2 Network Requirements