2.8 Making UTP Connections
The 10/100/1000 copper ports support the following connection types and distances:
Network Cables
10BASE-T: 2-pair UTP Cat. 3,4,5 , EIA/TIA-568B 100-ohm
100BASE-TX: 2-pair UTP Cat. 5, EIA/TIA-568B 100-ohm
1000BASE-T: 4-pair UTP Cat. 5 or higher (Cat.5e is recommended), EIA/TIA-568B 100-ohm
Link distance: Up to 100 meters
Auto MDI/MDI-X Function
This function allows the port to auto-detect the twisted-pair signals and adapts itself to form a valid MDI to MDI-X connection with the remote connected device automatically. No matter a straight through cable or crossover cable is connected, the ports can sense the receiving pair automatically and configure itself to match the rule for MDI to MDI-X connection. It simplifies the cable installation.
Auto-negotiation Function
The ports are featured with auto-negotiation function and full capability to support connection to any Ethernet devices. The port performs a negotiation process for the speed and duplex configuration with the connected device automatically when each time a link is being established. If the connected device is also auto-negotiation capable, both devices will come out the best configuration after negotiation process. If the connected device is incapable in auto-negotiation, the switch will sense the speed and use half duplex for the connection.
Port Configuration Management
For making proper connection to an auto-negotiation incapable device, it is suggested to use port con- trol function via software management to set forced mode and specify speed and duplex mode which match the configuration used by the connected device.
