Cabletron Systems 38, FOMIM-32, 36 Multi Media Access Centers, Lanview Status Monitoring System

Chapter 1: Introduction

1.3.2Multi Media Access Centers

The Cabletron Systems Fiber Optic Media Interface Modules are designed to be installed into the Cabletron Systems Multi Media Access Center (MMAC). The modular design of the MMAC allows the FOMIM to co-exist with other Media Interface Modules (MIMs) to provide a variety of different media connections on any one point.

Each packet entering the FOMIM is repeated by the repeater module in the MMAC. Each packet that enters the repeater module is regenerated and retimed, which assures data integrity and maximum data path distance. In addition, the repeater feature ensures fault isolation, because the repeater module automatically segments problem ports from the network. A segmented port automatically reconnects to the network once the port receives a good packet.

The repeater module also allows you to access the network management capabilities that enable you to control the FOMIM and its attached segments. For example, information on the number of good packets and collisions that have passed through the FOMIM and each port on the MIM can be gathered. For more information on managing the FOMIM, refer to your specific management module Local Management Guide.

1.4LANVIEW STATUS MONITORING SYSTEM

The FOMIM uses Cabletron Systems built-in visual diagnostic and status monitoring system, LANVIEW. Using LANVIEW, network troubleshooting personnel can quickly scan the LANVIEW LEDs to observe network status, diagnose network problems, and determine which node or segment is faulty (see Figure 1-2).

1-4 FOMIM User’s Guide