Chapter 2: Hardware Description

Accton’s SwitcHub-2s is a highly reliable network switch that complies with IEEE 802.3 (10BASE-T) and IEEE 802.3u (100BASE-TX) specifications. This switching hub delivers superior performance compared to the bridge and router solution, and at a much lower cost. By confining local traffic to the originating segment, and only forwarding cross-segment traffic to the other port, this hub meets the requirements for Ethernet and IEEE 802.3 networks.

This chapter describes the hardware features of Accton’s SwitcHub-2s. For easier management and control of the hub, familiarize yourself with the display indicators, ports and configure button. Front and rear panel illustrations in this chapter display the unit’s LED indicators, configure button and ports. Before connecting any network device to the hub, read this chapter carefully.

Front Panel

The unit’s front panel provides a simple interface for configuring or monitoring the switching hub. It includes a configure button, power indicator, display mode indicators, port status indicators, and a statistical display for network traffic as shown below.

Figure 2.1 The SwitcHub-2s Front Panel

2-1

Page 15
Image 15
Accton Technology 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX manual Hardware Description, Front Panel

10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX specifications

Accton Technology is a prominent player in the networking industry, particularly known for its contributions to Ethernet technology. Among its notable products are the 100BASE-TX and 10BASE-T Ethernet standards, which have been instrumental in shaping local area networking (LAN) infrastructures.

The 100BASE-TX standard, also known as Fast Ethernet, provides a data transfer rate of up to 100 Mbps and operates over twisted-pair cabling, specifically Category 5 cables. This technology was designed to enhance the speed of traditional Ethernet (10BASE-T), which operates at 10 Mbps. The 100BASE-TX standard employs a signaling method called four-pair twisted copper cabling, which optimizes signal integrity and reduces electromagnetic interference. One of its core features is the ability to leverage existing cabling infrastructure while providing significant speed improvements, making it a cost-effective solution for upgrading network performance.

On the other hand, 10BASE-T represents the original Ethernet technology, defining a standard for 10 Mbps data transmission. It utilizes twisted-pair wiring and is capable of operating over distances of up to 100 meters. This protocol laid the groundwork for networking, allowing the widespread adoption of Ethernet in office environments and beyond. 10BASE-T employs baseband signaling, which means that the cabling is dedicated solely to Ethernet traffic, minimizing interference from other signals.

Key characteristics of both 100BASE-TX and 10BASE-T include their ability to support full-duplex communication, which allows data to be transmitted and received simultaneously, thereby doubling the potential throughput. This feature is particularly beneficial for applications that require high data rates and low latency, such as voice over IP (VoIP) and video conferencing.

Moreover, these Ethernet standards are built around plug-and-play capabilities, making network setups simpler and more accessible, even for organizations without extensive IT resources. Accton Technology supports these protocols with a range of switches and network interface cards that enable seamless integration into existing networks.

In conclusion, Accton Technology's 100BASE-TX and 10BASE-T standards are vital components in the evolution of Ethernet networking. With their impressive data transfer rates, compatibility with existing cabling, and support for full-duplex communication, they continue to be relevant in modern networking solutions, providing businesses with reliable and efficient means for data transmission.