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Chapter 2. Introduction to the IBM 8285 Nways ATM Workgroup Switch

The IBM 8285 Nways ATM Workgroup Switch (hereafter called the 8285 switch) is an ATM switch for the workgroup environment that provides a low-cost ATM solution as either a stand-alone switch or as an access node to the rest of the enterprise. Using your existing wiring it provides up to 25 Mbps of bandwidth to users. The 8285 switch can connect users to any ATM network at speeds up to

155Mbps, and even has forum-compliant LAN emulation built-in to make implementation easier.

In addition, the IBM 8285 Nways ATM Workgroup Switch is expandable, using the optional 8285 expansion chassis which enables it to take advantage of most of the many ATM modules available for the IBM 8260 Nways Multiprotocol Switching Hub. This provides you with ability to:

Create even larger workgroups

Service more high-speed devices (such as servers)

Provide more bandwidth in to your ATM backbone network

Connect existing token-ring or Ethernet users directly to the ATM backbone

Connect to remote sites using public ATM services at speeds from 34 Mbps up to 155 Mbps

Distribute video information across your ATM network and make it accessible using standard TV monitors

The following sections provide an overview of the 8285 switch.

2.1 8285 Components

The 8285 switch is comprised of the following components:

Standard:

Base Unit:

-12 ATM 25.6 Mbps ports

-I/O slot for optional uplink (see below) Optional:

155 Mbps ATM I/O Card which can be installed in the IBM 8285 Base Unit:

-Multi-mode Fiber (MMF)

-Single-mode Fiber (SMF)

Expansion Unit

Installable 8285/8260 ATM Modules

Copyright IBM Corp. 1996

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IBM SG24-4817-00 manual Introduction to the IBM 8285 Nways ATM Workgroup Switch, Components