Appendix D

Cabling Guidelines

This appendix provides specifications for cables used with a NETGEAR Smart Switch Series Switch.

Fast Ethernet Cable Guidelines

Fast Ethernet uses UTP cable, as specified in the IEEE 802.3u standard for 100BASE-TX.The specification requires Category 5 UTP cable consisting of either two-pair or four-pair twisted insulated copper conductors bound in a single plastic sheath. Category 5 cable is certified up to 100 MHz bandwidth. 100BASE-TX operation uses one pair of wires for transmission and the other pair for receiving and for collision detection.

When installing Category 5 UTP cabling, use the following guidelines to ensure that your cables perform to the following specifications:

Certification

Make sure that your Category 5 UTP cable has completed the Underwriters’ Laboratories (UL) or Electronic Testing Laboratories (ETL) certification process.

Termination method

To minimize cross-talk noise, maintain the twist ratio of the cable up to the point of termination; untwist at any RJ-45 plug or patch panel should not exceed 0.5 inch (1.5 cm).

Cabling Guidelines

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July 2005

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NETGEAR FS750T2NA, FS526T software manual Appendix D Cabling Guidelines, Fast Ethernet Cable Guidelines

FS526T, FS750T2NA specifications

The NETGEAR FS750T2NA and FS526T are commendable offerings in the realm of unmanaged Ethernet switches, designed to cater to both home and small business networking needs. Boasting solid performance, these switches facilitate seamless connectivity for multiple devices, making them ideal for network expansion.

The NETGEAR FS750T2NA features 48 ports, ensuring ample connections for numerous devices. It supports auto-sensing technology, allowing devices to negotiate their speed and duplex settings, optimizing network efficiency. The switch is designed with a steel housing that enhances durability, which is critical for environments where space can be cramped.

Notably, the FS750T2NA supports a non-blocking switching architecture. This means that data can flow freely across all ports without encountering bottlenecks, delivering consistent performance, which is critical when several devices are active simultaneously. Furthermore, the FS750T2NA is equipped with IEEE 802.3x flow control, which ensures that frames are not dropped during heavy traffic, maintaining data integrity.

On the other hand, the FS526T, featuring 26 ports, offers a slightly smaller footprint while retaining robust performance. This switch also includes auto-sensing technology and a metal chassis, ensuring longevity. The FS526T caters well to environments where space is a limiting factor without compromising on performance.

Both switches support the energy-efficient IEEE 802.3az standard, which reduces power consumption during low network activity. This characteristic not only lowers operational costs but also contributes to a greener IT footprint. Moreover, users benefit from plug-and-play installation, enabling quick deployment without the need for complicated configuration.

The NETGEAR switches utilize advanced design to ensure low latency, thus enhancing the overall user experience, whether it be for data transfer, video streaming, or online gaming. Furthermore, the fanless design of the FS750T2NA and FS526T ensures silent operation, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments.

In summary, the NETGEAR FS750T2NA and FS526T are highly effective unmanaged switches that offer substantial port availability, robust performance, energy efficiency, and ease of use. These devices stand out as reliable solutions for expanding and optimizing network connectivity in both home and small business setups.