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10/100 Auto Negotiation Switch User’s Guide
Connecting the DES-3216 to the Network
7
3
Connecting the DES-3216 to the
Network
This chapter covers the following:
• Cable Specifications
• Ports
• Connecting the DES-3216 to another DES-3216
• Connecting the DES-3216 to other switches and hubs
This section deals with making cables and connecting the DES-3216 to other devices. It is
extremely important that cables have the correct pin arrangement and that the proper cables
be used when connecting to servers, switches, hubs, workstations and other devices.
Cable Specifications
The type of cable you use depends on the speed of your network. A network running at 10
Mbps can use lower grade cable than a network running at 100 Mbps., Table 1: Cable
Length, indicates cable requirements for Ethernet and Fast Ethernet.
Table 1: Cable Length
Ethernet Type Cable Requirements Maximum Length
10BASE-T Category 3,4, or 5 UTP or STP 328 ft (100 M)
100BASE-TX Category 5 UTP or STP 328 ft (100 M)
Do not use telephone cable. Telephone cable does not support Ethernet or Fast Ethernet.
Use the following guidelines when handling cables:
• Do not stretch or bend cables.
• Do not put cables near sources of electromagnetic interference.
• Do not create trip hazards by laying cables in aisles and walkways.
• Secure cables to the floor when routing in aisles or walkways.
In order for Ethernet or Fast Ethernet to work the wires must be arranged correctly inside the
RJ-45 connector when you make cables. The most common problem on Ethernet or Fast
Ethernet networks is the cable. If you migrate from Ethernet to Fast Ethernet, make sure the
cables are pinned out properly.
There are two types of cables: straight through and crossover. Category 3, 4, or 5 UTP/STP
cable has eight wires inside the sheath. The wires form four pairs. Straight through cable has
the same pin out, inside the RJ-45 connector, at both ends. Crossover cable has a different
pin arrangement at each end. Fast Ethernet does not tolerate incorrect pin arrangements. You