4 Making Network Connections

10 Mbps Ethernet Collision Domain

Table 4-6 Maximum Ethernet Cable Length

Type

Cable Type

Maximum Length

Connector

 

 

 

 

10BASE-T

Twisted Pair, Categories 3, 4, 5 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.

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SMC Networks SMC8126L2 manual Cable Labeling and Connection Records, Mbps Ethernet Collision Domain

SMC8126L2 specifications

The SMC8126L2 is a robust Layer 2 managed switch developed by SMC Networks, designed to meet the demands of modern networking environments. This switch is part of the SMC's lineup of network solutions, emphasizing reliability, efficiency, and advanced functionalities suitable for both small and medium-sized enterprises.

One of the standout features of the SMC8126L2 is its support for 26 ports, which allow multiple devices to connect seamlessly. This includes 24 Fast Ethernet ports (10/100 Mbps) and 2 gigabit uplink ports. This configuration enables flexible network designs and enhances the bandwidth availability for devices that require faster data transmission.

The SMC8126L2 is equipped with various Layer 2 switching capabilities, including port-based Virtual LAN (VLAN) support, allowing businesses to segment their networks for better security and performance. This capability ensures that sensitive data remains isolated and reduces broadcast traffic across the entire network. The switch also supports 802.1Q tagging for VLAN configuration, facilitating the management of multiple VLANs simultaneously.

Quality of Service (QoS) is another significant aspect of the SMC8126L2. It employs intelligent traffic management features, prioritizing critical applications such as VoIP and video conferencing. This ensures that time-sensitive data packets are transmitted efficiently, minimizing latency and improving overall user experience. The switch supports multiple QoS mechanisms, such as 802.1p priority tagging and port-based scheduling, thus accommodating varied networking needs.

Security features are paramount in the SMC8126L2, with network access control through Port Security and MAC address filtering. This prevents unauthorized access and enhances the security posture of the network. Additionally, the switch supports IGMP Snooping, which conserves bandwidth by ensuring that multicast traffic is only sent to ports that require it.

Another remarkable aspect of the SMC8126L2 is its management capabilities. The switch can be managed through various methods, including web-based interfaces, command-line interfaces (CLI), and SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol). This flexibility allows network administrators to monitor performance, configure settings, and troubleshoot issues effectively.

In summary, the SMC8126L2 brings a suite of advanced features and technologies that cater to the evolving requirements of networking. With its extensive port options, VLAN support, QoS capabilities, robust security measures, and versatile management interfaces, the SMC8126L2 stands out as a reliable choice for organizations looking to enhance their networking infrastructure. Its performance and reliability make it well-suited for addressing the challenges of modern network environments while ensuring efficient data flow and security.