26CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING THE SWITCH

port, you need a cross-overcable. Many ports on workstations and servers are configured as MDI (straight-through). If you want to make a connection to an MDI port, you need to use a standard straight-throughcable. See Table 7.

3Com recommends that you use Category 5 twisted pair cable — the maximum segment length for this type of cable is 100 m (328 ft).

CAUTION: If you want to install the Switch using a Category 5E or Category 6 cable, 3Com recommends that you briefly connect the cable to a grounded port before connecting network equipment. If you do not, the cables Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) may damage the Switch's port.

You can create a grounded port by connecting all wires at one end of a UTP cable to an earth ground point, and the other end to a female RJ-45 connector located, for example, on a Switch rack or patch panel. The RJ-45 connector is now a grounded port.

Table 7 Cables required to connect the Switch 4200 Series to other devices if auto-negotiation is disabled

Cross-over Cable

Straight-through Cable

Switch to Switch (MDIX to MDIX)

Switch to Hub (MDIX to MDIX)

Switch to PC (NIC) (MDIX to MDI)

Choosing the correct Choose from the following cable options:

Fiber cables

The 1000BASE-SX ports can be connected to multimode fiber cables only.

The 1000BASE-LX and LH70 GBIC ports use multimode or single-mode fiber optic cables.

For detailed information on fiber cable specifications, refer to the

SuperStack 3 Implementation Guide that accompanies your Switch.

If you wish to connect a 1000BASE-SX MT-RJ port to a fiber port with a different type of connector, for example, SC or ST please contact your network supplier for a suitable patch cable.

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3Com C17304, 3C17300, C17302 manual Fiber cables, Cross-over Cable Straight-through Cable

C17304, C17302, 3C17300 specifications

The 3Com C17304, 3C17300, and C17302 are notable models in the 3Com networking product line, renowned for their performance and technological advancements. These models cater to various networking environments, providing robust solutions for both small and medium-sized businesses as well as larger enterprises seeking reliable connectivity.

The 3Com C17304 is recognized for its formidable capacity and flexibility. It offers a high port density, which allows for multiple devices to connect without compromising performance. This model features built-in support for Power over Ethernet (PoE), enabling the powering of devices such as IP cameras and phones directly through the network cable. The 3Com C17304 is designed with advanced security features, including integrated VLAN support for traffic segmentation and enhanced security protocols to protect sensitive data.

The 3C17300 is another essential player in this lineup, embodying versatility and ease of use. This model is equipped with a user-friendly interface that simplifies network management, making it accessible for IT professionals at all levels. The 3C17300 includes capabilities for Layer 2 switching, providing efficient data forwarding with minimal latency. Its intelligent features, such as link aggregation and QoS (Quality of Service), ensure optimized bandwidth utilization while prioritizing critical applications.

Meanwhile, the C17302 is specifically engineered for performance-driven environments. It excels in delivering high-speed connectivity with its support for Gigabit Ethernet, significantly enhancing data transfer rates. The C17302 also incorporates advanced routing capabilities, allowing for dynamic network management and improved performance in complex network topologies. Furthermore, this model boasts reliability with redundancy features designed to minimize downtime, ensuring consistent access to network resources.

All three models leverage innovative technologies to deliver superior performance. They support various standards such as IEEE 802.1Q for VLAN tagging and IEEE 802.3ad for link aggregation. User-centric features like SNMP for network monitoring and troubleshooting enhance the overall management experience. These switches are built to provide scalability, enabling businesses to expand their networks seamlessly as demands grow.

In summary, the 3Com C17304, 3C17300, and C17302 showcase advanced features, reliability, and effective performance, making them integral components of modern networking solutions. Ideal for a range of applications, they help businesses optimize their network infrastructure while maintaining robust security and efficient data handling.