MAKING NETWORK CONNECTIONS

10 Mbps Ethernet Collision Domain

Table 4-6 Maximum Ethernet Cable Length

Cable Type

Maximum Cable

Connector

 

Length

 

 

 

 

Twisted Pair, Category 3 or better

100 m (328 ft)

RJ-45

100-ohm UTP

 

 

Cable Labeling and Connection Records

When planning a network installation, it is essential to label the opposing ends of cables and to record where each cable is connected. Doing so will enable you to easily locate inter-connected devices, isolate faults and change your topology without need for unnecessary time consumption.

To best manage the physical implementations of your network, follow these guidelines:

Clearly label the opposing ends of each cable.

Using your building’s floor plans, draw a map of the location of all network-connected equipment. For each piece of equipment, identify the devices to which it is connected.

Note the length of each cable and the maximum cable length supported by the switch ports.

For ease of understanding, use a location-based key when assigning prefixes to your cable labeling.

Use sequential numbers for cables that originate from the same equipment.

Differentiate between racks by naming accordingly.

Label each separate piece of equipment.

Display a copy of your equipment map, including keys to all abbreviations at each equipment rack.

4-8

Page 54
Image 54
SMC Networks SMC6128L2 manual Cable Labeling and Connection Records, Mbps 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.