44CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING THE SWITCH

Table 17 Unit Status Colors

Color

State

 

 

Green

The switch is powered-up and operating normally.

Green flashing

The Power On Self Test (POST) is in process, or

 

software is downloading.

Red

The switch has failed its Power On Self Test (POST).

Off

The switch is not receiving power.

 

 

If you encounter a problem, see the section entitled “Solving Problems

Indicated by LEDs” on page 82 for a list of suggested solutions.

CAUTION: The switch has no ON/OFF switch; the only method of connecting or disconnecting mains power is by connecting or disconnecting the power cord.

Choosing the Correct All of the ports on the switch are Auto-MDIX, that is, they have a Cables cross-over capability. These ports can automatically detect whether to

operate in MDI or MDIX mode. Therefore, you can make a connection to one of the ports with a straight-through (MDI) or a cross-over (MDIX) cable.

The Auto-MDIX feature only operates with auto-negotiation enabled.

If auto-negotiation is disabled, all the switch ports are configured as MDIX (cross-over). If you want to make a connection to another MDIX 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 18.

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

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3Com 5500G-EI, 5500-EI manual Unit Status Colors, Color State

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.