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User Guide for the CatalystExpress 500 Switches
OL-8122-01
Chapter1 Introduction
Overview
Figure 1-1 is an example network using Catalyst Express switches. Devices
outside the dotted line are network users and network resources, such as servers
and printers. Devices within the dotted line are switches, routers, and access
points that enable communication between network users and provide access to
network resources.
Figure 1-1 Catalyst Express Network Example
Any of the Catalyst Express switch models can be Switches A, B, C, and D in this
network. To take full advantage of the different switch models, use the model that
is designed for the type of connections that you require.
For example, use the Catalyst Express 500G-12TC for Switches A and B. This
model has the most Gigabit Ethernet ports, and it is best suited to providing
1000-Mbps connections between switches and to servers.
Use either the Catalyst Express 500-24TT or the Catalyst Express 500G-12TC for
Switches C and D. These switches are designed to provide high-speed (up to
100 Mbps and 1000 Mbps, respectively) connections to network users.
If you need to connect PoE devices to your network, use the Catalyst
Express 500-24LC and the Catalyst Express 500-24PC. These switches can
provide power to up to 4 or up to 24 PoE devices, respectively.