Using the TSX-1620 Bridge View

Max Age

The current setting for the bridge’s BPDU ageing timer, in seconds. The ageing timer defines the maximum number of seconds that a Configuration BPDU is retained by the bridge before it is discarded. During normal operation, each bridge in the network receives a new Configuration BPDU before the ageing timer expires. If the timer expires before a new Configuration BPDU is received, it indicates that the former Root is no longer active. The remaining bridges begin Spanning Tree operation to select a new Root. The Root Bridge determines the Max Age. The range for this field is from 6 to 40 seconds, with a default value of 20 seconds.

Hello Time

Indicates, in seconds, the length of time the Root Bridge, or bridge attempting to become the Root, waits before resending a Configuration BPDU. The Root Bridge determines the Hello Time.

Priority

The Spanning Tree Algorithm assigns each bridge a unique identifier, which is derived from the individual port’s MAC address and its priority as determined by the Spanning Tree Algorithm or your setting. The bridge with the lowest value of bridge identifier is selected as the Root. A lower priority number indicates a higher priority; a higher priority enhances a bridge’s chance of being selected as the Root.

Acceptable values range from 0-FFFF and can be edited to change the network topology, if needed. The default is 8000.

Root Port

The port identifier (i.e., the physical index number) for the port that provides the lowest cost path to the Root Bridge. The Root Port field displays 0 if this bridging device is the Root Bridge.

Root Cost

Indicates the cost of the data path from this bridge to the Root Bridge. Each port on each bridge adds a “cost” to a particular path that a frame must travel. For example, if each port in a particular path has a Path Cost of 1, the Root Cost would be a count of the number of bridges along the path. This field will read 0 if the TSX-1620 is the Root Bridge. See Changing a Port’s STA Parameters,

page 3-29, to find out how to set a port’s Path Cost.

Hold Time

The minimum time, in seconds, that can elapse between the transmission of Configuration BPDUs. The Hold Time ensures that Configuration BPDUs are not transmitted too frequently through any bridge port. Receipt of a Configuration BPDU starts the Hold Time count at a device. If the Hold Time expires, the port invokes the Transmit Configuration BPDU procedure, which sends configuration change information to the Root. The Hold Time is a fixed value, as specified by the IEEE 802.1d specification.

The Spanning Tree Protocol Window

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Cabletron Systems TSX-1620 manual Max Age, Hello Time, Priority, Root Port, Root Cost, Hold Time
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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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