The Power-up Sequence 45

Table 18 Cables required to connect the switch to other devices with auto-negotiation 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)

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, otherwise the cable’s 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.

WARNING: The Switch 5500G-EI supports Power over Ethernet on all front ports. The Switch 5500 PWR supports Power over Ethernet on the 10/100 ports only. Use these ports for Ethernet wiring within the same building only.

Choosing the Correct The 1000BASE-SX SFP transceiver supports a direct connection to a Cables for the multi-mode fiber-optic cable. The 1000BASE-LX SFP transceiver supports

1000BASE-X SFP Ports a direct connection to single-mode and multi-mode fiber-optic cables. The 1000BASE-LH70 SFP transceiver supports a direct connection to a single-mode fiber-optic cable. The 1000BASE-T SFP transceiver uses Category 5 copper cabling with RJ-45 connectors and supports segment lengths of up to 100 m (328 ft). Table 14 describes the port cable range for each connection.

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3Com 5500-EI, 5500G-EI manual Cross-over Cable Straight-through Cable

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.