Ethernet Workgroup Design 6-17Ethernet
Figure 6-5. FDDI Backbone Internetworking
The main difference between the small office and the remote office is that a
provision must be made to accommodate a connection to a different networking
technology. In the case of Cabletron Systems workgroup products, this process
has been simplified by the inclusion of BRIM capabilities into the MicroMMAC
stackable bases and the ESX and NBR Ethernet switches.
Essentially, the design process for the remote office is the same as that for the
small office as discussed previously. The remote office requires an additional
series of steps related to the use of BRIMs. Once the localized workgroup portions
of the network have been finalized, the BRIM selection process can begin.
BRIM Selection
As most remote office environments will deal with BRIM-capable standalone or
stackable devices, the selection of the correct BRIM is an essential portion of the
network design. There are several BRIM models available for a number of
different internetworking needs. These BRIM types are listed in Table 4-2, found
in Chapter 4, PIMs and BRIMs.
For fully up-to-date information regarding BRIM interoperability, contact your
Cabletron Systems Sales Representative with specific questions.
PIM Selection
Several BRIMs require PIMs in order that they support connections to the proper
networking media. The type of PIM that must be specified is dependent upon the
type of BRIM that is being customized. BRIMs with FDDI connections require
FPIMs, BRIMs with Ethernet connections require EPIMs, and so on.
Table 4-1, found in Chapter 4, provides the vital information regarding all
available PIMs.
FDDI
Backbone
2094n17