NB-30 Bridging

CRC

The total number of frames received by the port that had Cyclical Redundancy Check (CRC) errors.

Framing

The number of frames received by the port from the network that were misaligned Ñ that is, in which a byte of data in the packet contained less than 8 bits.

Giants

The number of frames that were received by the port which were too large for the network. A giant exceeds the maximum Ethernet frame size of 1518 bytes (excluding preamble).

Ethernet and Remote Port Packet Discarded Statistics

These Þelds display the number of packets that were discarded at one of the bridge ports. Note that the Inbound count applies to the Ethernet port only.

Inbound (Ethernet Port Only)

Displays the number of packets received by the port which were discarded for any reason (lack of buffer space, the frame time-to-live was exceeded, or the packet was too large for the network).

LOB

The number of frames that were discarded at the port speciÞcally because the NB-30Õs frame buffer was unable to keep up with the rate of trafÞc on the network.

Timeout

The number of frames that were discarded at the port because the frameÕs time-to-live (the maximum time for forwarding) was exceeded before it could be transmitted by the port.

Bridge Spanning Tree

The Bridge Spanning Tree window allows you to display and modify the NB-30Õs bridge port information and protocol parameters relating to the Spanning Tree Algorithm.

In a network design with multiple transparent bridges placed in parallel (i.e., attached to the same local network segment), only a single bridge should forward data through the LAN, leaving the remaining bridges on the segment in a standby state so that another can assume the bridging responsibility (should the currently active bridge go down). The Spanning Tree Algorithm (STA) is the method that bridges use to communicate with each other to ensure that only a single data route exists between any two end stations.

Bridge Spanning Tree

3-17

Page 43
Image 43
Cabletron Systems NB30 manual Bridge Spanning Tree, Framing, Giants, Inbound Ethernet Port Only, Timeout

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.