Chapter 4
PIMs and BRIMs
This chapter deals with the special methods of connecting standalone and stackable devices to one another regardless of cabling media or networking technology.
While many network design implementations are simple and straightforward, there are several that must incorporate complexity beyond a single segment, media type, or even a single networking technology. These complex networks are quite frequently the domain of modular networking chassis, such as the Cabletron Systems MMAC-FNB series of hubs, or the enterprise network switch platform, such as the Cabletron Systems MMAC-Plus. It is important that workgroup devices be able to support complexity, so Cabletron Systems has designed support for different media, segmentation, and internetworking needs into several of its workgroup solutions devices.
Port Interface Modules
In order to support a wider variety of networking needs, Cabletron Systems incorporated specialized, user-configurable ports on many of its standalone and stackable devices. These ports, called Port Interface Module slots, or PIM slots, are available openings in devices into which a PIM can be placed. These PIMs can be constructed to provide connectivity for any standardized networking technology and most port types.
Figure 4-1. PIM Configuration
