The NB-30 Bridge Chassis View

The NB-30 Bridge Port Status Display

Each port display on the NB-30 will indicate that portÕs current bridging state:

FWD (Forwarding)

(Green) The port is on line and forwarding packets across

 

the NB-30 from one network segment to another.

DIS (Disabled)

(Blue) Bridging at the port has been disabled by

 

management; no trafÞc can be received or forwarded on

 

this port, including conÞguration information for the

 

bridged topology.

LRN (Learning)

(Magenta) The Forwarding database is being created, or

 

the Spanning Tree Algorithm is being executed because

 

of a network topology change. The port is monitoring

 

network trafÞc, and learning network addresses.

LIS (Listening)

(Magenta) The port is not adding information to the

 

Þltering database. It is monitoring Bridge Protocol Data

 

Unit (BPDU) trafÞc while preparing to move to the

 

forwarding state.

BLK (Blocking)

(Orange) The port is on line, but Þltering trafÞc from

 

going across the NB-30 from one network segment to

 

another. Bridge topology information will be forwarded

 

by the port.

BRK (Broken)

(Red) The physical interface has malfunctioned.

Chassis Manager

Like most networking devices, CabletronÕs devices draw their functionality from a collection of proprietary MIBs and IETF RFCs. In addition, CabletronÕs newer intelligent devices organize their MIB data into a series of Òcomponents.Ó A MIB component is a logical grouping of MIB data, and each group controls a deÞned set of objects. Note that there is no one-to-one correspondence between MIBs and MIB components; a single MIB component might contain objects from several different proprietary MIBs and RFCs.

The Chassis Manager window, Figure 2-4,is a read-only window that displays the MIBs and the MIB components Ñ and, therefore, the functionality Ñ supported by the currently monitored device.

To view the Chassis Manager window:

1.Click on Help on the far right of the menu bar at the top of the Chassis View window.

2.Drag down to MIBs Supported, and release.

2-6

Viewing Chassis Information

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Cabletron Systems NB30 manual NB-30 Bridge Port Status Display, Chassis Manager

NB30 specifications

Cabletron Systems NB30 is a noteworthy networking device that emerged in the mid-1990s as a critical component for businesses looking to enhance their local area network (LAN) capabilities. Designed primarily for the burgeoning demand of network speed and reliability, the NB30 served as a bridge in networking technology, offering organizations a robust solution to keep up with the advancing digital landscape.

One of the main features of the Cabletron NB30 is its ability to support both Ethernet and Token Ring protocols. This dual compatibility made it an attractive choice for enterprises that were transitioning from older networking systems to newer infrastructures. By accommodating both technologies, the NB30 enabled smoother migrations without necessitating a complete overhaul of existing networking components.

Another significant characteristic of the NB30 is its modular architecture. This design allowed organizations to customize their networking setup according to specific needs and preferences. Users could add or replace modules to enhance functionality, from extra ports to support additional devices or advanced features like network management tools, ensuring that their systems could grow and evolve in tandem with their business requirements.

The NB30 also utilized a stackable design, which facilitated scalability. Organizations could easily connect multiple NB30 units to increase their network capacity and performance. This stacking capability was a significant advantage as it allowed for efficient use of space and resources while providing a path for future growth.

In terms of performance, the Cabletron NB30 boasted a switching capacity that enabled quick data transfer rates, reducing latency and improving overall network responsiveness. This speed was crucial during a period when businesses were increasingly reliant on real-time data exchange and communication.

Additionally, the NB30 incorporated advanced network management features, enabling administrators to monitor traffic, diagnose issues, and implement changes with ease. This level of control was essential for maintaining network health, ensuring that businesses remained operational without unnecessary downtimes.

Overall, Cabletron Systems NB30 played a pivotal role in the evolution of networking technology. Its combination of protocol flexibility, modular design, scalability, and robust performance made it a popular choice for businesses looking to create efficient, dependable networks in an era of rapid technological advancement. The NB30's legacy continues to influence modern networking solutions, demonstrating the importance of adaptability and performance in the ever-changing digital world.