MAKING NETWORK CONNECTIONS

Connectivity Rules

When adding hubs (repeaters) to your network, please follow the connectivity rules listed in the manuals for these products. However, note that because switches break up the path for connected devices into separate collision domains, you should not include the switch or connected cabling in your calculations for cascade length involving other devices.

1000BASE-T Cable Requirements

All Category 5 UTP cables that are used for 100BASE-TX connections should also work for 1000BASE-T, providing that all four wire pairs are connected. However, it is recommended that for all critical connections, or any new cable installations, Category 5e (enhanced Category 5) or Category 6 cable should be used. The Category 5e and 6 specifications include test parameters that are only recommendations for Category 5. Therefore, the first step in preparing existing Category 5 cabling for running 1000BASE-T is a simple test of the cable installation to be sure that it complies with the IEEE 802.3-2005 standards.

1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet Collision Domain

Table 4-1 Maximum 1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet Cable Length

Cable Type

Maximum Cable

Connector

 

Length

 

 

 

 

Category 5, 5e, or 6 100-ohm UTP

100 m (328 ft)

RJ-45

or STP

 

 

 

 

 

4-6

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SMC Networks SMC6128L2 manual Connectivity Rules, 1000BASE-T Cable Requirements, Mbps Gigabit Ethernet Collision Domain

SMC6128L2 specifications

The SMC Networks SMC6128L2 is a highly versatile and efficient Layer 2 Ethernet switch designed to cater to the connectivity needs of both small and medium-sized enterprises as well as larger networks. Known for its reliability and performance, the SMC6128L2 offers a range of features that make it suitable for various applications.

One of the standout characteristics of the SMC6128L2 is its capacity to support 28 ports, of which 24 are 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet ports. These ports facilitate high-speed data transfer, making the switch ideal for bandwidth-intensive tasks, such as video streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers. The remaining four ports provide Gigabit SFP slots that allow for additional expansion and flexibility, accommodating different types of connections depending on network requirements.

The SMC6128L2 is equipped with advanced management features that enable seamless control and configuration of the switch. The device supports various management protocols, including SNMP, RMON, and WEB management, allowing administrators to monitor network performance in real-time, configure settings, and troubleshoot issues efficiently.

Another prominent technology incorporated in the SMC6128L2 is VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support. This functionality allows users to segment networks into distinct zones to enhance security and improve traffic management. By enabling traffic isolation, VLANs facilitate better control over network resources and can significantly reduce broadcast storms that may impair network performance.

Quality of Service (QoS) is also an essential feature of the SMC6128L2, allowing the prioritization of critical network traffic to ensure that essential applications maintain their performance levels, particularly during peak usage times. This capability is beneficial for organizations relying on real-time applications such as VoIP or video conferencing.

The switch supports various security features, including port security and MAC address filtering, which help mitigate unauthorized access and safeguard sensitive data. Its robust design features a fanless architecture for quiet operation, making it well-suited for office environments.

Overall, the SMC Networks SMC6128L2 is an effective solution for organizations looking to invest in a robust, efficient, and feature-rich switching system. Its combination of high-performance capabilities, management flexibility, and security features positions it as a reliable choice for a wide range of networking needs.