Reference Manual for the Model RP614 v2 Web Safe Router
B-14 Networks, Routing, and Firewall Basics
The RP614 v2 router incorporates Auto UplinkTM technology (also called MDI/MDIX). Each
LOCAL Ethernet port will automatically sense whether the Ethernet cable plugged into the port
should have a normal connection (e.g. connecting to a PC) or an uplink connection (e.g.
connecting to a router, switch, or hub). That port will then configure itself to the correct
configuration. This feature also eliminates the need to worry about crossover cables, as Auto
UplinkTM will accommodate either type of cable to make the right connection.
Cable Quality
A twisted pair Ethernet network operating at 10 Mbits/second (10BASE-T) will o ft en tol er at e l ow
quality cables, but at 100 Mbits/second (100BASE-TX) the cable must be rated as Category 5,
(Cat 5), by the Electronic Industry Association (EIA). This rating will be printed on the cable
jacket. A Category 5 cable will meet specified requirements regarding loss and crosstalk. In
addition, there are restrictions on maximum cable length for both 10 and 100 Mbits/second
networks.