Reference Manual for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point

Ethernet Cabling

Although Ethernet networks originally used thick or thin coaxial cable, most installations currently use unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cabling. The UTP cable contains eight conductors, arranged in four twisted pairs, and terminated with an RJ45 type connector. A normal straight-through UTP Ethernet cable follows the EIA568B standard wiring and pinout as described in Table 6-1.

Table 6-1.

UTP Ethernet cable wiring, straight-through

 

 

 

 

Pin

Wire color

Signal

 

 

 

 

 

1

Orange/White

Transmit (Tx) +

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

Orange

 

Transmit (Tx) -

 

 

 

 

 

3

Green/White

Receive (Rx) +

 

 

 

 

 

 

4

Blue

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5

Blue/White

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6

Green

 

Receive (Rx) -

 

 

 

 

 

7

Brown/White

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8

Brown

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Uplink Switches, Crossover Cables, and MDI/MDIX Switching

In the wiring table above, the concept of transmit and receive are from the perspective of the PC, which is wired as Media Dependant Interface (MDI). In this wiring, the PC transmits on pins 1 and

2.At the hub, the perspective is reversed, and the hub receives on pins 1 and 2. This wiring is referred to as Media Dependant Interface - Crossover (MDI-X).

When connecting a PC to a PC, or a hub port to another hub port, the transmit pair must be exchanged with the receive pair. This exchange is done by one of two mechanisms. Most hubs provide an Uplink switch which will exchange the pairs on one port, allowing that port to be connected to another hub using a normal Ethernet cable. The second method is to use a crossover cable, which is a special cable in which the transmit and receive pairs are exchanged at one of the two cable connectors. Crossover cables are often unmarked as such, and must be identified by comparing the two connectors. Since the cable connectors are clear plastic, it is easy to place them side by side and view the order of the wire colors on each. On a straight-through cable, the color order will be the same on both connectors. On a crossover cable, the orange and blue pairs will be exchanged from one connector to the other.

C-12

Network, Routing, Firewall, and Cabling Basics

August 2003

Page 93 Page 95
Page 94
Image 94
NETGEAR ME103 manual Ethernet Cabling, Uplink Switches, Crossover Cables, and MDI/MDIX Switching
Page 93 Page 95

ME103 specifications

The NETGEAR ME103 is a versatile and reliable Wireless Access Point designed to extend the reach of your network while providing enhanced connectivity for various devices. Ideal for both home and small office environments, the ME103 is an essential component for those seeking to improve wireless performance without compromising on speed or stability.

One of the main features of the NETGEAR ME103 is its compatibility with numerous wireless standards. It supports the 802.11b and 802.11g protocols, allowing users to connect a wide range of wireless devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This compatibility ensures that the ME103 can seamlessly integrate into existing networks, making it a flexible solution for upgrading Wi-Fi coverage.

The ME103 is equipped with fast data transfer rates, reaching up to 54 Mbps in 802.11g mode. This speed is sufficient for most online activities, including streaming videos and online gaming, providing users with a smooth and uninterrupted experience. Its ability to function as both an access point and a bridge allows for increased versatility, enabling connectivity between wired and wireless devices.

In terms of security, the NETGEAR ME103 has built-in features that protect your network from unauthorized access. It supports Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) encryption protocols, ensuring that data transmitted over the network remains secure. Additionally, it includes a built-in firewall that further safeguards against potential threats.

The device is also equipped with an easy-to-use web interface for configuration, making it simple for users to set up and manage their network settings. Its compact design allows for flexible placement options, whether mounted on a wall or placed on a desk. This adaptability is crucial for optimizing wireless coverage in larger spaces.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) support is another significant characteristic of the ME103, which simplifies installation by allowing the device to receive power through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for an additional power source.

Overall, the NETGEAR ME103 stands out due to its high compatibility, solid performance, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their wireless connectivity efficiently.
Top Page Image Contents