Fast EtherHub User’s Guide
MDI-X Port (Medium Dependent Interface - Crossed)
This RJ-45 port, which crosses the receive and transmit signals internally, can be used with straight-through cable to connect the hub to any device that has a standard network interface (e.g., workstation, server or router). Pin-out assignments are shown in Appendix B.
RJ-45 Connector
Most common terminator for twisted-pair wiring.
Star Topology
Physical connections for RJ-45 ports are limited to a star configuration (i.e., similar to a hub and spoke arrangement). This topology also requires that only one path exists between any two nodes, and that data transmitted by any node is concurrently available to all other nodes within the same local network (i.e., immediate collision domain).
Station Port (MDI-X)
MDI-X ports which are used for connecting the hub to any workstation or server that has a properly installed network adapter card. (For port 12, the selector switch must be set to MDI-X.) This port can also be connected to an MDI port on another compatible hub or a switch.
STP (Shielded Twisted-Pair)
100W Category 5 twisted-pair wire covered with an external aluminum-foil or woven- copper shield designed to reduce excessive noise pick up or radiation. The STP cable refered to in this manual is also sometimes called screened twisted-pair (ScTP). Its impedance is 100Wand has the same pin assignment as UTP. This cable should not be confused with the older 150Wcable type designed by IBM.
UTP (Unshielded Twisted-Pair)
Cable composed of insulated wires twisted together to reduce electrical interference.
