Masks, IP Subnets | Black Box LR5100A-T, LR5200A-R2 instruction

Applications

Masks

The portion of the IP address to use as the network address is specified by using a mask; a mask is the contiguous number of bits to be used for the network address all set to 1. When the mask is logically ANDed with an IP address, the result is the network address. The mask is specified by entering the mask size as the number of bits in the mask. For the standard Class A, B and C Internet addresses, the mask sizes would be 8, 16 and 24 respectively.

Networks are not restricted to the above standard sizes; the mask (and hence the network address it specifies) may be any number of bits from 8 to 32. This gives much more flexibility to match the size of the two fields of the IP address to the number of networks and hosts to be serviced.

IP Subnets

An IP network may be divided into smaller networks by a process called sub-netting. A subnet is specified using some of the high order bits of the host field of the IP address for sub-network addressing. The portion of the IP address to be used as the subnet address is defined by using a subnet mask.

If the company in the example above (Class C IP address 199.169.100.0) decides to split their network into two LANs to reduce the load on their network, the original IP network address may be sub-netted into two or more smaller IP networks consisting of a smaller number of host addresses in each LAN. This allows each of the sites to be a smaller IP network and to be routed together to allow inter-network communication.

The subnet mask size is the number of bits in the subnet mask. In the above figure the subnet mask size would be 26 (24 bits for the class C network address and 2 subnet bits). The subnet size is the number of subnet bits - in the above figure, the subnet size would be 2.

LR5200A-R2, LR5100A-T specifications

The Black Box LR5100A-T and LR5200A-R2 are advanced network media converters designed to facilitate seamless data transmission across various media types. These devices are particularly valuable for organizations seeking high-performance solutions for extending network communications beyond traditional limits.

The LR5100A-T is an Ethernet media converter that operates over twisted pair cabling, efficiently converting 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet signals into fiber optic signals. This capability allows businesses to harness the long-distance advantages of fiber optics while maintaining compatibility with existing Ethernet infrastructure. With a broad range of supported distances, users can effectively communicate over distances up to 100 kilometers, depending on the type of fiber optic cable used and the transmission rate.

In contrast, the LR5200A-R2 emphasizes compatibility with a wider range of fiber types and supports both multimode and single-mode fiber connections. It also provides auto-negotiation capabilities, which enable it to automatically detect and configure to the optimal speed of connected devices, streamlining setup and enhancing user experience.

One of the key features of both the LR5100A-T and LR5200A-R2 is their rugged design, making them suitable for deployment in harsh environments. They are engineered to withstand extreme temperatures and are resistant to vibration, ensuring reliability in challenging settings. Additionally, both models adhere to industry standards, ensuring interoperability with a diverse array of networking equipment.

Notably, these converters come equipped with LED indicators that allow for real-time monitoring of device status, simplifying network management and troubleshooting. This feature ensures that technicians are promptly alerted to any connectivity issues, significantly reducing downtime.

Powering options for both models include standard AC power supplies or Power over Ethernet (PoE), allowing for flexible deployment scenarios without the need for additional power outlets. This flexibility can be a crucial factor in environments where power availability may be limited.

With their blend of performance, durability, and advanced features, the Black Box LR5100A-T and LR5200A-R2 media converters represent a solid choice for organizations looking to future-proof their network infrastructure while ensuring high levels of connectivity and reliability. Whether extending existing networks or implementing new solutions, these devices provide the necessary tools for effective communication in today’s digital world.