Appendix B: Bridging Methods

Source routing workstations need not be configured with route information; instead they discover the best route to a destination through the use of explorer frames. In the Figure B-1 example, station C might first transmit an empty explorer frame. Bridge B would add 43-B-7 as its portion of the route, and then transmit the explorer on all other LANs. When the packet reaches station A, it can reverse the route to send a reply back to C. When C receives the reply, both stations have all of the routing information needed to converse, with no further explorer frames needed.

Part of the original intent of source routing bridging was to enable LANs to be richly connected by low-performance, low-cost bridges. As shown in Figure B-2, source routing allows an end station to choose a less-congested path through a chain of bridges, where each bridge is likely to become congested.

Station A

Station C

Congested

Alternative Route

Figure B-2 Data Path Using Source Routing Bridging

In contrast to spanning tree bridging, all bridges and all links are active with source routing bridging; the least-congested path is chosen at discovery time. With products like the ATX, such congestion avoidance is rarely necessary, since the bridge is capable of handling nearly any traffic load without experiencing congestion.

Page B-4

Token Ring Switch Module User Guide

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Cabletron Systems 3T02-04 manual B-4 Token Ring Switch Module User Guide
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3T02-04 specifications

Cabletron Systems, a notable name in the networking industry, gained prominence for its pioneering products and innovative technologies. One of its formidable offerings is the Cabletron Systems 3T02-04, an advanced network switching device designed to cater to the evolving demands of high-performance networking environments.

The Cabletron Systems 3T02-04 excels in facilitating seamless data transfer within various network infrastructures. At its core, this device is engineered with key features that enhance its performance and adaptability. With a robust switching architecture, it provides high throughput and low latency, ensuring efficient handling of data traffic. This is particularly crucial for organizations that rely on rapid communication and data exchange for their operations.

One of the defining characteristics of the 3T02-04 is its multi-port configuration, which allows multiple devices to connect simultaneously. This enables the device to support a wide range of applications, from standard office networking to intensive data center operations. Equip with support for various data transmission protocols, including Ethernet, the 3T02-04 is highly versatile, meeting the diverse needs of modern networking tasks.

Additionally, Cabletron Systems incorporated advanced technologies such as Virtual LAN (VLAN) support in the 3T02-04, enhancing network segmentation and improving security measures. This feature allows network administrators to partition the network into different segments, ensuring that sensitive data remains separate and secure from other less critical services.

The 3T02-04 is also notable for its scalability. As organizations grow and their networking requirements evolve, the 3T02-04 can adapt. This scalability is crucial for businesses looking to future-proof their infrastructure investments, allowing them to add bandwidth and enhance connectivity without a complete overhaul of their existing systems.

Moreover, the robustness and reliability of the device ensure that it can withstand the rigors of demanding environments. Its durable design and comprehensive management features enable efficient monitoring and maintenance.

In conclusion, the Cabletron Systems 3T02-04 stands out as a powerful and versatile networking solution that combines cutting-edge technologies, multi-port capabilities, VLAN support, and excellent scalability, making it a valuable asset for any organization aiming to optimize its network infrastructure.
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