Chapter 2: Connecting to the Network

2.3 TYPICAL CONFIGURATIONS

Physical connectivity to a Token Ring network is provided by either shielded twisted pair (STP) or unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cabling that connects the Token Ring module to a Hub. Each Token Ring switch module provides only one kind of connector, either four DB9 connectors for STP cabling or four RJ45 connectors for UTP cabling.

2.4CONNECTING THE TOKEN RING MODULE TO A HUB

It is not possible to attach workstations directly to the ATX Token Ring port. Either an active or a passive Hub must be used. A passive Hub contains fairly simple electronics (principally relays) which form a self-healing electrical ring. An active Hub contains more sophisticated ring-maintenance circuitry and may be manageable.

2.4.1Unshielded Twisted Pair

When using Unshielded Twisted Pair cabling in a Token Ring environment, make sure that it conforms to the specifications in Table 2-1 (this assumes patch cables that are no longer than 8 feet or 2.4 meters):

Table 2-1 Unshielded Twisted Pair Cabling Specifications

Data Rate

Compatibility

Cable Type

Longest Lobea

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IBM and IEEE

EIA/TIA Category 3/4

100 m (328 ft.)

4 Mbps

UTP 802.5

EIA/TIA Category 5

125 m (410 ft.)

 

Token Ring

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IBM and IEEE

EIA/TIA Category 3/4

45 m (147 ft.)

16 Mbps

UTP 802.5

EIA/TIA Category 5

45 m (147 ft.)

 

Token Ring

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

a. To assure compatibility with future LANs, the longest lobe should be limited to 100 meters.

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Token Ring Switch Module User Guide

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Cabletron Systems 3T02-04 manual Typical Configurations, Connecting the Token Ring Module to a HUB, Unshielded Twisted Pair

3T02-04 specifications

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