34CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING THE SWITCH

Switch 5500 and To rack-mount the front of your Switch 5500 and Switch 5500G-EI (PoE):

Switch 5500G-EI (PoE)

1Place the switch the right way up on a hard flat surface, with the front facing towards you.

2Place a securing bracket over the mounting holes on one side of the front of the switch, as shown in Figure 15.

3Insert the two screws and tighten them with a suitable screwdriver.

4Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the other front securing bracket.

You must use the screws supplied with the securing brackets. Damage caused to the unit by using incorrect screws invalidates your warranty.

5Insert the switch into the 19-inch rack and secure with suitable screws (not provided). Ensure that the ventilation holes are not obstructed.

To rack mount the rear of your switch:

1Place a rear rail bracket over the mounting holes on one side of the rear of the switch, as shown in Figure 16.

The bracket has two mounting positions. The one you choose depends on the rack depth. Table 12 describes the correct positions on which to mount the bracket:

Table 12 Rear rail bracket mounting points

Distance from Front to Rear

Mounting Positions

 

 

37cm — 25cm

Middle mounting point

43cm — 56cm

Rear mounting point

 

 

2Insert the screw and tighten it with a suitable screwdriver.

3Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the other rear securing bracket.

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3Com 5500-EI Switch 5500G-EI PoE, Rear rail bracket mounting points, Distance from Front to Rear Mounting Positions

5500G-EI, 5500-EI specifications

The 3Com 5500-EI and 5500G-EI series are advanced Ethernet switches designed for enterprise networks, catering to the growing demand for high-performance, secure, and scalable networking solutions. These switches are particularly suited for large organizations that require robust management capabilities and high-density connectivity.

One of the key features of the 5500-EI and 5500G-EI models is their modular architecture, which allows businesses to tailor the switch configuration to their specific needs. With options for various interface modules, including Gigabit Ethernet and PoE (Power over Ethernet), these switches can support diverse networking requirements and facilitate the gradual expansion of the network infrastructure.

The Series offers advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities. Layer 2 features include VLAN tagging, trunking, and Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to ensure efficient traffic management and network segmentation. On the Layer 3 front, the switches support static routing, RIP, and OSPF, enabling dynamic routing protocols for better traffic flow and load balancing. These features together enhance the performance and reliability of enterprise applications.

Security is another vital aspect of the 3Com 5500-EI and 5500G-EI series. The switches come equipped with robust security features to protect sensitive data and maintain compliance. These include MAC address filtering, access control lists (ACLs), and support for 802.1X authentication. Additionally, the devices support secure management protocols like SNMP v3, which enhances the security of management communications.

The 5500G-EI model stands out with its high-density port offerings, supporting up to 48 ports in a single switch, with an option for stacking to create a unified management platform across multiple switches. This flexibility allows organizations to leverage their existing infrastructure while scaling seamlessly in response to growing demands.

Another notable characteristic is the built-in IPv6 support, which positions the 3Com 5500-EI and 5500G-EI models favorably for future-proofing enterprise networks as the transition to IPv6 continues. This feature ensures that organizations can maintain connectivity as devices increasingly adopt the newer protocol.

In conclusion, the 3Com 5500-EI and 5500G-EI series offer a comprehensive suite of features and technologies designed for high-performance enterprise networking. With modularity, robust Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities, enhanced security measures, and a focus on scalability, these switches provide a solid foundation for modern corporate networks, accommodating future growth and technological advancements.