Chapter 3: Beginning the Installation
Choosing a Site for the Switches
Observe these requirements when planning the installation of the switches of a stack.
If you plan to install the switches in an equipment rack, check to be sure that the rack is safely secured so that it will not tip over. Devices in a rack should be installed starting at the bottom, with the heavier devices near the bottom of the rack.
If you plan to install the switches on a table, check to be sure that the table is level and stable.
The power outlet should be located near the switches and be easily accessible.
The site should allow for easy access to the ports on the front of the switches, so that you can easily connect and disconnect cables, and view the port LEDs.
The site should allow for adequate air flow around the units and through the cooling vents on the front and rear panels. (The ventilation direction is from front to back, with the fan on the back panel drawing the air out of the unit.)
The site should not expose the switches to moisture or water.
The site should be a
The site should include dedicated power circuits or power conditioners to supply reliable electrical power to the network devices.
Do not install the switches in a wiring or utility box because they will overheat and fail from inadequate airflow.
Warning
Switches should not be stacked on top of one another on a table or desktop because that could present a personal safety hazard if you need to move or replace switches.
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