Cabletron Systems NB30 manual Introduction, Using the NB-30 Bridge User’s Guide

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Chapter 1

Introduction

How to use this guide; related guides; software conventions; getting help; NB-30 Bridge firmware version

Welcome to the SPECTRUM Element Manager for the NB-30 UserÕs Guide. We have designed this guide to serve as a simple reference for using SPECTRUM Element Manager for the NB-30 Bridge.

The NB-30 series bridge is a protocol-independent remote bridge that transparently connects two remote Ethernet LAN segments via a DDS, full T1/E1, or fractional T1 link. The bridge is fully compliant with the IEEE 802.1d Spanning Tree Algorithm speciÞcation used when bridges are placed in parallel, and it uses a source address table and Þltering database to Þlter or forward network trafÞc.

It is also equipped with two media-conÞgurable Single Port Interface Module (SPIM) slots. One SPIM is required to connect the bridge to the network; the other optional SPIM slot can be used to create a redundant link to a local network segment. Performance capabilities include a source address table capable of storing 8,191 addresses, a packet Þltering rate of up to 10,000 frames per second, and a forwarding rate of up to 2,900 frames per second (or 3,800 frames if set up for full duplex operation).

Using the NB-30 Bridge User’s Guide

Each chapter in this guide describes one major functionality or a collection of several smaller functionalities of the NB-30 Bridge. This guide contains information about software functions which are accessed directly from the device icon; for information about management functions which are accessed via the SPECTRUM Element Manager platform, consult the SPECTRUM Element Manager UserÕs Guide or Tools Guide.

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Contents NB30 User’s Guide Page Virus Disclaimer Page Restricted Rights Notice Page Contents Index ContentsIntroduction Using the NB-30 Bridge User’s GuideIntroduction Related ManualsSoftware Conventions Using the MouseDevice Description Common NB-30 Bridge Window FieldsUsing Window Buttons Using On-line Help Accessing On-line DocumentationGetting Help Getting Help from the Cabletron Systems Global Call Center NB-30 Bridge FirmwareIntroduction NB-30 Bridge Firmware NB-30 Bridge Chassis View Viewing Chassis Information Front Panel Information Date Menu StructureUtilities Menu Device MenuHelp Menu Board MenuChassis Manager NB-30 Bridge Port Status DisplayViewing Hardware Types Managing the BridgeEdit Date Window Setting the Device Date and TimeEnabling and Disabling Bridging NB-30 Bridge Chassis View Managing the Bridge Bridging Basics NB-30 BridgingViewing and Managing Bridging Interfaces About Transparent BridgingBridge Status Bridge Location Bridge Status ConditionOK/SQE on Bridge State on InterfaceBridge Status on Remote Port Interface Interface Type Interface NameBridge Port Address Local Ethernet Port Segment NameEnabling and Disabling Bridging Accessing Bridge Status Window OptionsPerformance Graphs Bridge StatisticsFrames Forwarded Frames ReceivedFrames Filtered Nothing Device ErrorsDiscarded Inbound Ethernet Port Only Forwarded OutboundTimeout Remote Port Only CRC ErrorsTotal Errors Out of Window Coll. Ethernet Port OnlyBridge Summary Statistics Window Bridge Summary StatisticsEthernet and Remote Port Statistics Remote Port Statistics Window Packets Filtered Blue Ethernet Port Only Xmit Aborts Ethernet Port OnlyOOW Ethernet Port Only Bridge Spanning Tree TimeoutFraming GiantsBridge Spanning Tree Window Bridge Level Parameters Protocol Forwarding DelayHello Time Max AgeBridge Port Level Parameters Topology Configuring Spanning TreeChanging Bridge Priority Changing the Spanning Tree Algorithm Protocol TypeChanging Forwarding Delay Time Changing Hello TimeChanging Max Age Time Filtering Database Changing Port PriorityChanging Path Cost NB-30 Bridging Number TypeCapacity Ageing TimeList Configuring the Filtering DatabaseAddress Port FilteringChanging the Type of Entry Changing the Port Filtering ActionAdding or Deleting Individual Filtering Database Entries Erasing Entries from the Permanent or Acquired Databases DSX-1 SummaryBridge DSX-1 Summary Window Configuring, Running, and Checking the Loopback TestViewing the T1 Link Channel Status Restoring Bridge DefaultsSelect Restore Defaults Resetting Bridge CountersSelect Reset Counters Restarting the BridgeNB-30 Bridging Restarting the Bridge NB-30 Bridging Restarting the Bridge Index Index-2 Index-3 Index Index-4

NB30 specifications

Cabletron Systems NB30 is a noteworthy networking device that emerged in the mid-1990s as a critical component for businesses looking to enhance their local area network (LAN) capabilities. Designed primarily for the burgeoning demand of network speed and reliability, the NB30 served as a bridge in networking technology, offering organizations a robust solution to keep up with the advancing digital landscape.

One of the main features of the Cabletron NB30 is its ability to support both Ethernet and Token Ring protocols. This dual compatibility made it an attractive choice for enterprises that were transitioning from older networking systems to newer infrastructures. By accommodating both technologies, the NB30 enabled smoother migrations without necessitating a complete overhaul of existing networking components.

Another significant characteristic of the NB30 is its modular architecture. This design allowed organizations to customize their networking setup according to specific needs and preferences. Users could add or replace modules to enhance functionality, from extra ports to support additional devices or advanced features like network management tools, ensuring that their systems could grow and evolve in tandem with their business requirements.

The NB30 also utilized a stackable design, which facilitated scalability. Organizations could easily connect multiple NB30 units to increase their network capacity and performance. This stacking capability was a significant advantage as it allowed for efficient use of space and resources while providing a path for future growth.

In terms of performance, the Cabletron NB30 boasted a switching capacity that enabled quick data transfer rates, reducing latency and improving overall network responsiveness. This speed was crucial during a period when businesses were increasingly reliant on real-time data exchange and communication.

Additionally, the NB30 incorporated advanced network management features, enabling administrators to monitor traffic, diagnose issues, and implement changes with ease. This level of control was essential for maintaining network health, ensuring that businesses remained operational without unnecessary downtimes.

Overall, Cabletron Systems NB30 played a pivotal role in the evolution of networking technology. Its combination of protocol flexibility, modular design, scalability, and robust performance made it a popular choice for businesses looking to create efficient, dependable networks in an era of rapid technological advancement. The NB30's legacy continues to influence modern networking solutions, demonstrating the importance of adaptability and performance in the ever-changing digital world.
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