Host MAC Address

is the MAC address of the host or workstation to which an SNA/LLC2 device needs to connect.

If the host will be attached via an Ethernet interface in the SmartSwitch and the remote device is attached via a Token Ring, or vice versa, this MAC address will be "bit- swapped" internally, because of the differences in frame formatting between Ethernet and Token Ring. In this case, the address must be "bit-swapped" again, so the remote device will receive an address in the correct format.

Bit swapping is done by reversing the order of the bits (digits) within each byte (pair of digits) of the hexadecimal address, while leaving the sequence of the bytes unchanged.

For example, to bit-swap the hex address 400010001088:

1.Break the address into pairs of digits: 40 00 10 00 10 88

2.Reverse the digits within each pair: 04 00 01 00 01 88

3.Replace each digit as specified in the following table. This reverses the binary bits of each digit. For example, 7 (0111 binary) becomes E (1110 binary).

Digit

Convert to Digit

Convert to

Digit

Convert to

Digit

Convert to

0

0

 

4

 

2

8

1

C

3

1

8

 

5

 

A

9

9

D

B

2

4

 

6

 

6

A

5

E

7

3

C

 

7

 

E

B

D

F

F

Using the example, 04

00 01

00 01 88

 

 

 

converts to:

02

00 08

00 08 11

 

 

 

4.Enter the bit swapped value (e.g., 020008000811) as the Host MAC Address. This value will arrive at the host as the proper address (e.g., 400010001088) after being translated.

Session Type

if Originated, means the SmartSwitch 1800 will initiate LLC2 sessions from the con- figured Host MAC Address. If Terminated, the node will accept LLC2 sessions des- tined for the host address.

In the examples shown in Figure 9-1(on page 9-3), LLC2 hosts must be configured in the SmartSwitch databases as follows:

Example 1: One record in SmartSwitch 2 for the host, with Session Type =

Terminated.

Example 2: One record in SmartSwitch 1 for the host, with Session Type = Orig- inated, one record in SmartSwitch 2 for the host, with Session Type =

Terminated.

Example 3: Two records in the SmartSwitch for the host, one with Session

Type = Originated, the other Terminated.

Example 4: One record in the SmartSwitch for the host, with Session Type =

Originated.

9-22

SmartSwitch 1800 4. 0 User Guide, Rev 01

Page 148
Image 148
Cabletron Systems 1800 manual Digit Convert to Digit Using the example

1800 specifications

Cabletron Systems, a leading player in network management and telecommunications solutions during the late 20th century, introduced several innovative products that played a crucial role in shaping enterprise networking. Among these were the Cabletron FRX6000, FRX4000, and the FRX1800, which delivered advanced features aimed at enhancing network performance, security, and scalability.

The Cabletron FRX6000 was designed as a robust multi-layer switch, ideal for large-scale enterprise environments. It supported extensive routing capabilities, allowing organizations to manage traffic efficiently even under heavy loads. The FRX6000 boasted high throughput rates and low latency, making it suitable for demanding applications. With support for various network protocols, including IP, IPX, and AppleTalk, its adaptability made it a versatile choice for diverse networking needs. Moreover, security features like VLAN support and Access Control Lists (ACLs) provided enhanced protection against potential threats.

Moving to the FRX4000, this model offered a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness. The FRX4000 maintained many of the essential features of its larger counterpart while catering to medium-sized enterprises. It provided Layer 3 routing and could handle multiple simultaneous connections, ensuring seamless communication across departments. The modular design allowed for easy upgrades, enabling businesses to expand their network infrastructure without significant overhauls. This made the FRX4000 an attractive option for organizations looking to optimize their network investments.

Lastly, the FRX1800, designed for small to medium businesses, focused on simplicity and ease of use while still incorporating powerful network management capabilities. Its user-friendly interface made it accessible for organizations lacking extensive IT resources. The FRX1800 provided essential functionalities such as Integrated Layer 2 switching and routing, network monitoring, and basic security features, ensuring that even smaller companies could maintain efficient, reliable networking without overwhelming complexity.

All three models utilized advanced technologies, including a high bandwidth backbone and state-of-the-art switching architecture, to enable fast and reliable data transfer. They also supported Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms, allowing businesses to prioritize critical applications and ensure consistent performance across the network.

In summary, the Cabletron FRX6000, FRX4000, and FRX1800 were pivotal in enhancing network capabilities, providing organizations with scalable, secure, and high-performance options tailored to their specific needs.