Chapter 3: Installation
Pre-Installation Considerations
Full-Duplex Considerations
The Switch provides full-duplex support for its RJ-45 ports. Full-duplex operation allows data to be sent and received simultaneously, doubling a port’s potential data throughput. If you will be using the Switch in full‑duplex mode, the maximum cable length using Category 5 cable is 328 feet (100 meters).
1000BASE-T Cable Requirements
All Category 5 UTP cables that are used for 100Base-TX connections should also work for 1000Base-T, providing that all four wire pairs are connected. However, it is recommended that for all critical connections, or any new cable installations, Category 5e (enhanced Category 5) or Category 6 cable should be used. The Category 5e specification includes test parameters that are only recommendations for Category
5.Therefore, the first step in preparing existing Category 5 cabling for running 1000Base-T is a simple test of the cable installation to be sure that it complies with the IEEE 802.3ab standards.
Positioning the Switch
Before you choose a location for the Switch, observe the following guidelines:
•Make sure that the Switch is accessible and that the cables can be connected easily.
•Keep cabling away from sources of electrical noise, power lines, and fluorescent lighting fixtures.
•Position the Switch away from water and moisture sources.
•To ensure adequate air flow around the Switch, be sure to provide a minimum clearance of two inches (50mm).
•Do not stack free-standing Switches more than four units high.
