Chapter 2 Switch Installation

Planning a Switch Stack (Catalyst 3750-E Switches)

Planning a Switch Stack (Catalyst 3750-E Switches)

If you plan to stack your switches, read these sections:

Switch Stacking Guidelines, page 2-6

Stack Cabling Configurations, page 2-7

Stack Bandwidth and Partitioning Examples, page 2-8

Power On Sequence for Switch Stacks, page 2-9

Switch Stacking Guidelines

For general concepts and procedures to manage switch stacks, see the switch software configuration guide on Cisco.com. When adding a Catalyst 3750-E switch to an existing 3750 switch stack, review the Catalyst 3750-E Switch Stack Compatibility Guide on Cisco.com for information about mixed stack configurations.

Before connecting the switches in a stack, keep in mind these stacking guidelines:

Size of the switch and any optional power-supply module. The 1150-W power-supply module is longer than the other modules. Stacking switches with the same power-supply modules together makes it easier to cable the switches. For switch dimensions, see Appendix A, “Technical Specifications.”

Length of cable. Depending on the configurations that you have, you might need different sized cables. If you do not specify the length of the StackWise cable, the 0.5-meter cable is supplied. If you need the 1-meter cable or the 3-meter cable, you can order it from your Cisco supplier. For cable part numbers, see the “StackWise Ports” section on page 1-14. The “Stack Cabling Configurations” section on page 2-7provides examples of recommended configurations.

Access to the switch rear panel and to the rear of the rack if you are planning to stack the switches. If you do not have access to the rear panel, make sure that you cable the switches before you rack-mount them.

For switch stacks that are rack-mounted, review this recommended sequence of events:

If you are using the RPS 2300, install the RPS first at the bottom of the stack. If needed, allow one RU space between the RPS and the first switch above to provide room for cabling.

Connect all the 22-pin RPS cables to the RPS 2300 as needed.

Rack-mount the switches. If you have the optional 1150-W power-supply module, first rack-mount the switch before installing the power-supply module.

Connect the RPS cable to the first switch above the RPS 2300. Connect the stack cables to the first switch above the RPS.

Connect the RPS cable to the next switch above the RPS 2300. Connect the stack cables to the next switch above the RPS.

Repeat until all devices are connected.

Catalyst 3750-E and Catalyst 3560-E Switch Hardware Installation Guide

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Cisco Systems 3560-E manual Planning a Switch Stack Catalyst 3750-E Switches, Switch Stacking Guidelines

3750-E, 3560-E specifications

Cisco Systems RPS (Redundant Power System) 2300, along with the 3750-E and 3560-E series switches, represents a significant technological advancement in enterprise networking. These devices are designed to enhance network reliability, scalability, and efficiency, making them integral components in modern enterprise infrastructures.

The Cisco RPS 2300 is designed to provide redundant power to specified Cisco switches, ensuring continuous operation during power disruptions. This system can support up to six devices, enhancing power reliability and reducing downtime. The modularity of the RPS 2300 contributes to its flexibility, allowing enterprises to customize their power solutions to suit their networking needs. It features dual power input, which provides an additional layer of failover capability, ensuring that even in the event of a primary power failure, the backup power system can take over seamlessly.

On the other hand, the Cisco 3750-E series switches are enterprise-class devices that offer a rich feature set to support advanced network functions. These switches come with Cisco’s StackWise technology, enabling users to stack up to nine switches in a single logical unit. This increases port density and simplifies network management. The 3750-E also supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), allowing the delivery of power directly to devices like IP phones and access points through the networking cables. The switch is equipped with high-performance Layer 3 routing capabilities, providing enhanced IP routing options for enterprise networks.

The Cisco 3560-E series switches share many of the advanced features found in the 3750-E models but focus more on providing comprehensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities in a compact design. The 3560-E series supports Cisco’s advanced security features, such as dynamic VLAN assignment and security group access control lists (ACLs). Additionally, these switches support IPv6, preparing enterprise networks for future growth and addressing requirements.

Both the 3750-E and 3560-E are equipped with energy-efficient technologies, including intelligent power management and support for Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE), helping organizations reduce their environmental footprint and operating costs. The integration of Cisco’s robust IOS software ensures that these devices are equipped with the latest features, ensuring strong performance, security, and scalability.

In summary, Cisco's RPS 2300, 3750-E, and 3560-E series exemplify the company's commitment to delivering cutting-edge networking solutions that meet the demands of modern enterprises, focusing on reliability, advanced features, and energy efficiency.