Automatic Setup 37

A suitable cable:

A standard null modem cable — if you are connecting directly to the console port, or

A standard modem cable — if you are connecting to the console port using a modem.

You can find pin-out diagrams for both cables in Appendix B on page 57.

A Category 5 twisted pair Ethernet cable with RJ-45 connectors to connect your Switch to the network.

Connecting the Workstation to the Switch

1Connect the workstation to the console port using a standard null modem cable as shown in Figure 8.

Figure 8 Connecting a workstation to the Switch via the console port

To connect the cable:

aAttach the female connector on the cable to the male connector on the console port of the Switch.

bTighten the retaining screws on the cable to prevent it from being loosened.

cConnect the other end of the cable to one of the serial ports (also known as a COM port) on your workstation.

2Open your terminal emulation software and configure the COM port settings to which you have connected the cable. The settings should be set to match the default settings for the Switch, which are:

19,200 baud

8 data bits

no parity

1 stop bit

no hardware flow control

Refer to the documentation that accompanies the terminal emulation software for more information.

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3Com 3C17204, 3C172203 manual Automatic Setup

3C17204, 3C172203 specifications

The 3Com 3C172203 and 3C17204 are part of the 3Com series of networking products that have made significant contributions to local area networks (LANs) and enterprise connectivity. While they may not be as widely recognized today as newer technologies, their features, technologies, and characteristics played an essential role in enhancing network performance and reliability during their peak usage.

One of the defining features of the 3Com 3C172203 and 3C17204 is their support for Ethernet networking, which was pivotal in establishing fast and reliable communication between devices on a network. These products typically supported both 10Base-T and 100Base-TX standards, providing a flexible transition from older networks to faster Ethernet speeds. This backward compatibility ensured that organizations could upgrade their networks incrementally without needing a complete overhaul, thereby preserving their existing investments in infrastructure.

Both models also supported features designed to optimize network performance and provide enhanced management capabilities. For instance, built-in diagnostic features enabled network administrators to troubleshoot connection issues more effectively, thereby reducing downtime. Additionally, these devices incorporated intelligent switching capabilities that could manage data flow efficiently, prioritizing traffic and optimizing available bandwidth to ensure a smooth user experience, even under heavy load.

In terms of physical design, the 3C172203 and 3C17204 were built with a focus on durability. These units often featured robust metal enclosures suitable for various environments, from office spaces to more demanding industrial settings. Furthermore, their compact design allowed for easy integration into existing network setups without requiring significant rack space, making them an attractive option for enterprises looking to maximize their networking capabilities.

Security features were also a consideration in the design of these networking devices. They implemented basic security protocols to safeguard the integrity of data transmitted across the network, ensuring that unauthorized access was minimized and overall network security was enhanced.

In conclusion, the 3Com 3C172203 and 3C17204 represent an era of networking technology characterized by their support for Ethernet standards, intelligent switching capabilities, robust design, and essential management features. These products were integral in facilitating the growth of LANs and laid the groundwork for the advanced networking solutions that followed in the years ahead. While newer technologies have emerged since then, the fundamental principles established by devices like the 3C172203 and 3C17204 continue to influence contemporary networking designs.