segments. The switch, without interfering with any other segments, auto- matically forwards traffic that needs to go from one segment to another. By doing this the total network capacity is multiplied, while still maintaining the same network cabling and adapter cards.

For Fast Ethernet networks, a switch is an effective way of eliminating problems of chaining hubs beyond the “two-repeater limit." A switch can be used to split parts of the network into different collision domains, making it possible to expand your Fast Ethernet network beyond the 205-meter network diameter limit for 100BASE-TX networks. Switches supporting both traditional 10Mbps Ethernet and 100Mbps Fast Ethernet are also ideal for bridging between the existing 10Mbps networks and the new 100Mbps networks.

Switching LAN technology is a marked improvement over the previous generation of network bridges, which were characterized by higher laten- cies. Routers have also been used to segment local area networks, but the cost of a router, the setup and maintenance required make routers rela- tively impractical. Today switches are an ideal solution to most kinds of local area network congestion problems.

Features

The Switches were designed for easy installation and high performance in an environment where traffic on the network and the number of user in- crease continuously.

The Switches with their small, compact size were specifically designed for small to middle workgroups. These Switches can be installed where space is limited; moreover, they provide immediate access to a rapidly growing network through a wide range of user-reliable functions.

The Switches are ideal for deployment with multiple high-speed servers for shared bandwidth 10Mbps or 100Mbps workgroups. With the highest bandwidth 200Mbps (100Mbps full-duplex mode), any port can provide workstations with a congestion-free data pipe for simultaneous access to the server.

The Switches are expandable by cascading two or more switches together.

- 2 -

Page 8
Image 8
Planet Technology SW-501, SW-801 manual Features