Using the TSX-1620 Bridge View

MtuExceedDiscard

Mtu stands for “maximum transfer unit”; it is the largest frame size that can be processed by the TSX-1620. A port discards any received frames that are larger than the Mtu; this field lists how many such frames were discarded.

The information in the Bridge Statistics window is a snapshot of the data. When you open the Bridge Statistics window, the application polls the devices for information. Devices are not polled again until you click mouse button 1 on the Update button, or close, then re-open the Statistics window.

NOTE

When a device is reset, statistics windows and/or statistics displays in the Bridge View windows may display very large numbers for one polling interval. This is due to the resetting of counters.

The Filtering Database Window

In Transparent bridging, each bridge port uses the device’s Filtering Database to determine a packet’s route through the bridge. The Filtering Database is created from permanent entries made via management, and from entries learned as the bridge collects and stores the source address and port association from each packet it receives.

When in the Forwarding state, the bridge examines each received packet and compares the destination address to the contents of the Filtering Database. If the destination address is located on the network from which the packet was received, the bridge filters (does not forward) the packet. If the destination address is located on a different network, the bridge forwards the packet to the appropriate network. If the destination address isn’t found in the Filtering Database, the bridge forwards the packet to all networks. To keep Filtering Database entries current, older entries are purged after a period of time, which is called the Dynamic Ageing Time.

The Filtering Database has two types of entries: Forwarding and Static. The Forwarding view of the Filtering Database contain addresses that the bridge learns from network traffic (also known as dynamic entries) as well as all the static entries. Learned entries are subject to the bridge’s Dynamic Ageing Timer; entries that aren’t accessed within the time specified by the ageing timer are purged. Static entries may be subject to the ageing timer, depending on how the entries were added. Static entries enter the Filtering Database in two ways: either automatically, when permanent database entries are copied to the Filtering Database, or manually when you move a Forwarding entry to the Static Table.

The Filtering Database Window

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Cabletron Systems TSX-1620 manual Filtering Database Window, MtuExceedDiscard
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TSX-1620 specifications

The Cabletron Systems TSX-1620 is a pioneering piece of network hardware that played a significant role in the evolution of networking technologies during the 1990s. This well-engineered device is primarily recognized as a multi-port Ethernet switch that was designed to provide high-speed, reliable connectivity for local area networks (LANs). As organizations increasingly demanded robust performance and enhanced network capabilities, the TSX-1620 emerged as a powerful solution to address these needs.

One of the key features of the TSX-1620 is its support for both 10Base-T and 100Base-T standards, catering to both standard Ethernet and Fast Ethernet connections. This versatility allowed businesses to easily transition from older Ethernet systems to newer, faster specifications without replacing their entire infrastructure. The switch could intelligently manage traffic between devices, minimizing collisions and ensuring that data packets were transmitted efficiently.

The architecture of the TSX-1620 includes support for various advanced technologies that enhance network performance. Its store-and-forward switching capability improves data integrity by checking packets for errors before forwarding them to their destination. This process reduces the risk of corrupted data affecting network performance, making it especially valuable for mission-critical applications.

Another notable feature is its robust security tools. The TSX-1620 incorporates VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support, enabling network administrators to segment traffic and improve security across different departments or user groups. This not only mitigates the risk associated with unauthorized access but also optimizes network traffic by confining broadcasts to designated VLANs.

Scalability is a prominent characteristic of the TSX-1620. With ports available for expansion, organizations could easily increase their network capacity as their needs grew. This feature promoted long-term investment in network infrastructure, allowing businesses to adapt quickly to changing demands without incurring substantial costs.

Reliability is paramount in networking equipment, and the TSX-1620 does not disappoint. Engineered with high-quality components, this switch was built to operate efficiently in a variety of environments while maintaining stable performance. Its design ensures a cooling mechanism that minimizes overheating, thereby prolonging its operational lifespan.

In summary, the Cabletron Systems TSX-1620 represents a significant advancement in network switch technology during its era. Its combination of speed, versatility, security features, and robust architecture made it a valuable asset for organizations seeking to enhance their networking capabilities and prepare for the future.
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