Installing the Switch on a Desktop

Installation Guide for the Model SW108 Ethernet Switch

Choose a location near the devices to be connected and close to an electrical outlet. Set the switch on a desktop or tabletop, allowing at least two inches (5 cm) of space on all sides to prevent restriction of airﬂow.

Connecting Devices to the Switch

Before connecting the switch, refer to Chapter 3, “Applications,” for information to help you determine the appropriate conﬁguration for your networking needs.

To connect the switch, follow these steps:

1.Connect the devices to the ports on the switch, using Category 5 UTP cable and an RJ-45 plug.

2.Set the Normal/Uplink push button.

The Normal/Uplink push button eliminates the need to use a crossover twisted pair cable for daisy-chaining or cascading. Use the following guidelines to conﬁgure port 1 on the Model SW108 switch:

•Conﬁgure the port for normal wiring if the port is to be connected to an uplink-wired device, such as a network station or a PC.

•Conﬁgure the port for uplink wiring if the port is to be connected to a normal-wired device, such as a hub or another switch.

The remaining (normal) ports on the Model SW108 switch cannot be conﬁgured for uplink wiring. If you are using one of these ports to connect to another normal port, you must use a crossover twisted pair cable to connect the two ports. Refer to Appendix C, “Cabling Guidelines,” for information about crossover twisted pair cable and straight-through twisted pair cable.

4-2	Installation

SW108 specifications

The NETGEAR SW108 is a versatile and robust network switch designed for managing the connectivity of multiple devices in small to medium-sized businesses or home networks. With its compact design and reliable performance, this switch is ideal for users looking to enhance their network infrastructure without complicating their setup process.

One of the primary features of the NETGEAR SW108 is its eight 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports. This enables the switch to support both wired and wireless devices, accommodating various connectivity needs. The switch automatically detects the device type connected to each port, facilitating seamless performance without requiring manual configuration. This plug-and-play capability means users can simply connect their devices and expect immediate functionality.

In terms of performance, the NETGEAR SW108 offers switch capacity and forwarding rates that ensure efficient data handling. With a switching capacity of 1.6 Gbps, it handles traffic with ease, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications such as video streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers. Additionally, the switch uses store-and-forward technology, which ensures that data packets are checked for errors before being forwarded, leading to improved network reliability and performance.

Built with a sturdy metal housing, the SW108 is designed for durability and longevity. It supports fanless operation, ensuring that the switch operates quietly, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise is a concern. The switch is also energy-efficient, featuring IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet technology, which automatically reduces power consumption when connected devices are inactive.

The NETGEAR SW108 is equipped with advanced features such as Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities on select ports, allowing users to power devices like IP cameras, access points, and VoIP phones directly through the Ethernet connection. This eliminates the need for additional power cables, resulting in a cleaner and more organized setup.

Overall, the NETGEAR SW108 embodies a blend of user-friendly features, reliable performance, and energy efficiency, making it an exceptional choice for anyone looking to enhance their networking capabilities. Whether for a small office or for home use, this switch delivers the functionality and reliability expected from a trusted brand in networking solutions.