Chapter 3: Installing the Switch

Selecting a Site

Switches can be mounted in a standard 19-inch equipment rack or on a flat surface. Be sure to follow the guidelines below when choosing a location.

The site should:

-be at the center of all the devices you want to link and near a power outlet.

-be able to maintain its temperature within 0 to 50 °C (32 to 122 °F) and its humidity within 5% to 95%, non-condensing

-provide adequate space (approximately five centimeters or two inches) on all sides for proper air flow

-be accessible for installing, cabling and maintaining the devices

-allow the status LEDs to be clearly visible

Make sure twisted-pair cable is always routed away from power lines, fluorescent lighting fixtures and other sources of electrical interference, such as radios and transmitters.

Make sure that the unit is connected to a separate grounded power outlet that provides 100 to 240 VAC, 50 to 60 Hz, is within 2 m (6.6 feet) of each device and is powered from an independent circuit breaker. As with any equipment, using a filter or surge suppressor is recommended.

Ethernet Cabling

To ensure proper operation when installing the switches into a network, make sure that the current cables are suitable for 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX or 1000BASE-T operation. Check the following criteria against the current installation of your network:

Cable type: Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) or shielded twisted pair (STP) cables with RJ-45 connectors; Category 3 or better for 10BASE-T, Category 5 or better for 100BASE-TX, and Category 5, 5e or 6 for 1000BASE-T.

Protection from radio frequency interference emissions

Electrical surge suppression

Separation of electrical wires (switch related or other) and electromagnetic fields from data based network wiring

Safe connections with no damaged cables, connectors or shields

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SMC Networks SMC8950EM, SMC8926EM manual Installing the Switch, Selecting a Site, Ethernet Cabling

SMC8926EM, SMC8950EM specifications

SMC Networks has established itself as a prominent player in the networking and connectivity market, offering a range of professional solutions designed for small to medium-sized enterprises. Among its notable products are the SMC8950EM and the SMC8926EM, two advanced Ethernet switches that cater to the need for reliable and efficient networking.

The SMC8950EM is an enterprise-class managed switch that delivers high-performance capability with 48 10/100/1000Mbps Ethernet ports, providing extensive connectivity for various devices on a local area network. Its architecture is designed to handle high traffic loads, making it apt for environments where speed and reliability are paramount. This switch supports multiple protocols, including VLANs, which allow for flexible network segmentation and improved security. The SMC8950EM also features several Layer 2 and Layer 3 management protocols, enabling the switch to support advanced routing, Quality of Service (QoS), and network traffic management.

On the other hand, the SMC8926EM is a compact yet powerful switch equipped with 24 10/100/1000Mbps Ethernet ports, making it ideal for smaller installations or branch offices that require scalability without compromising on performance. With support for Power over Ethernet (PoE), the SMC8926EM simplifies the implementation of IP phones, security cameras, and wireless access points, making it particularly useful in environments where power outlets may be limited.

Both models employ advanced technologies, such as network storm control and link aggregation, to enhance performance and ensure seamless connectivity. They also provide comprehensive network monitoring capabilities, allowing administrators to manage traffic and troubleshoot issues proactively. The user-friendly web interface facilitates easier management and configuration, while SNMP support enables integration with existing network management systems for enhanced visibility and control.

Ultimately, the SMC8950EM and SMC8926EM represent robust networking solutions that address the challenges faced by modern enterprises. With their combination of high performance, advanced features, and scalability, these switches are well-suited for companies looking to build a reliable and efficient network infrastructure. Whether for a large organization or a small branch office, SMC Networks continues to deliver products that meet the evolving needs of users worldwide.