Installing the Optional Ground Kit | Cisco Systems 3550 manual

Chapter 2 Switch Installation

Installing the Optional Ground Kit

For switches that require a two-hole lug for grounding, you can order a kit containing the ground lug and hardware from Cisco. For the Catalyst 3550-12G, 3550-24, and 3550-24-FX switches, order part number NEBS-LUG-3550=.

Note When you install the ground-lug kit, you cannot connect an RPS to the switch.

To install the ground lug, you need these tools and equipment:

•Ratcheting torque screwdriver with a Phillips head that exerts up to 15 pound-force inches (lbf-in.) or 240 ounce-force inches (ozf-in.) of pressure

•Panduit crimping tool with optional controlled-cycle mechanism (model CT-700, CT-720, CT-920, CT-920CH, CT-930, or CT-940CH)

•6-gauge copper ground wire (insulated or noninsulated)

•Wire-stripping tool for stripping 6-gauge wires

Note The illustrations in this section show the Catalyst 3550-12T switch as an example. Follow the same procedure to install the ground lug on the Catalyst 3550-24 and 3550-24-FX switches.

To ground the switch to earth ground, follow these steps. Make sure to follow any grounding requirements at your site.

Step 1 Use the two Phillips pan-head screws to attach the RPS connector cover to the back of the switch as shown in Figure 2-16.

Step 2 If your ground wire is insulated, use a wire stripping tool to strip the 6-gauge ground wire to 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) ± 0.02 inch (0.5 mm). (See Figure C-1 on page C-2.)

Step 3 Slide the open end of the ground lug over the exposed area of the 6-gauge wire.

Step 4 Using a Panduit crimping tool, crimp the ground lug to the 6-gauge wire. (See Figure C-2 on page C-3.)

Step 5 Use the two number-10-32 screws to attach the ground lug and wire assembly to the switch rear panel RPS connector cover, as shown in Figure 2-18.

Catalyst 3550 Switch Hardware Installation Guide

	OL-6155-01	2-15

3550 specifications

Cisco Systems 3550 is a series of enterprise-class multilayer switches that have gained popularity in both enterprise and service provider networks. Introduced in the early 2000s, the 3550 series was designed to meet the increasing demand for advanced networking capabilities, including Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, making it suitable for various network environments.

A standout feature of the Cisco 3550 is its support for advanced Layer 3 switching capabilities. This means it can perform routing functions similar to traditional routers while maintaining the speed and efficiency of a switch. The 3550 facilitates IP routing, enabling enhanced communication among different subnets without the need for additional routing devices.

The Cisco 3550 series is equipped with a range of ports, typically providing up to 48 Ethernet 10/100 ports and optional Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensuring scalability and flexibility in various network designs. The switches support Power over Ethernet (PoE), allowing the delivery of electrical power through Ethernet cables to connected devices, such as IP phones and wireless access points, streamlining installations and reducing cable management complexity.

Quality of Service (QoS) is another essential feature of the Cisco 3550. The switch supports advanced QoS mechanisms, which provide the ability to prioritize traffic. This is crucial in environments where bandwidth is limited, as it ensures that time-sensitive applications, like VoIP and video conferencing, receive sufficient bandwidth to function optimally.

In terms of security, the Cisco 3550 includes features such as access control lists (ACLs), port security, and VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks). These features help in segmenting network traffic and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information, thereby enhancing network security.

The Cisco 3550 is highly regarded for its robustness and reliability, making it a suitable choice for various organizations looking to maintain high availability in their networking environments. Its management capabilities include support for Cisco's IOS software, which offers a command-line interface for configuration, as well as options for SNMP and web-based management tools.

Overall, the Cisco Systems 3550 series is well-regarded for its multilayer switching capabilities, comprehensive feature set, and versatility in meeting the diverse needs of modern networking, making it a favored solution for businesses aiming to build efficient and secure network infrastructures.