Cabletron Systems 6H258-17 Network Card User Manual


 
Overview
Introduction 1-3
1.1.1 Connectivity
The SmartSwitch modules connects to Fast Ethernet networks or workstations through the MT-RJ
fiber optic ports on the front panel for 100 Mbps with duplex capability. These ports are in full
compliance with the optical performance requirements of 100BASE-FX version of IEEE 802.3u.
The 6H258-17 ports support multimode fiber optic cables up to 2 km. The 6H259-17 ports support
single mode fiber optic cables up to 15 km.
SmartSwitches have a slot for an optional HSIM or VHSIM to provide additional connectivity to
various networking technologies.
1.1.2 Runtime IP Address Discovery
This feature enables the module to automatically accept an IP address from a Boot Strap Protocol
(BootP) server on the network into NVRAM without requiring a user to enter an IP address
through Local Management.
When the module is connected to the network and powered up, Runtime IP Address Discovery
(RAD) checks the module for an IP address. If one has not yet been assigned (module and 6C105
chassis IP address set to 0.0.0.0), RAD checks to see if any of the module interfaces have a link. If
so, RAD sends out Reverse Address Resolution Protocol (RARP) and BootP requests to obtain an
IP address from a RARP or BootP server on the network.
The RAD requests start at an interval of one per second. The interval then doubles after every
transmission until an interval of 300 seconds is reached. At this point, the interval remains at 300
seconds. The RAD requests continue until an IP address is received from a RARP or BootP server,
or an IP address is entered using Local Management.
1.1.3 Full Duplex Switched Ethernet
Each switched Fast Ethernet port on the SmartSwitch supports 100 Mbps operation and can be
configured to operate in Full Duplex Switched Ethernet (FDSE) mode. FDSE allows each port to
provide up to 200 Mbps of bandwidth.
NOTE
The module will reboot after RAD is successful.