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Chapter 5
This chapter provides an overview of Ethernet technology and the levels of service that are provided
by incorporating the technology of the Model SW502 and Model SW507 switches into your network.
Examples are given to illustrate the role of the switch in several configurations that provide those
different levels of service to networks and users.
Ethernet Technology
When 10BASE-T was originally introduced, multiple repeaters were often used to build large
networks. To increase the number of connections, repeaters were connected together because
individual repeater port densities were often limited to 8 to 24 ports. As structured wiring systems
were implemented, horizontal wiring from the wiring closet to the desktop was designed for a
maximum distance of 100 m. Stackable repeaters eliminated the need for collision domains to extend
over multiple repeater hubs.
100BASE-T Fast Ethernet technology maintains the same concepts of the 10BASE-T technology.
Both use the same Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection (CSMA/CD) and Media
Access Control (MAC) protocol. Both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-T Ethernet use the same type of
Ethernet frame and error detection mechanisms. They also support the same star topology using
traditional media types, and are manageable by the same network management protocols. The most
fundamental difference between the two technologies is that 100BASE-T operates 10 times faster than
traditional 10BASE-T.
100BASE-T technology was developed to support the new paradigm and, by using switching
technology, can provide for four distinct levels of service. Combining 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, and
switching technology provides:
•
10BASE-T shared bandwidth of 10 megabits per second (Mbps) for the group of active users.
•
10BASE-T dedicated bandwidth of 10 Mbps for each user.
•
100BASE-TX shared bandwidth that equals 100 Mbps for the group of active users.
•
100BASE-TX dedicated bandwidth that equals 100 Mbps for each user.
Configuration Examples
Configuration Examples
5-1
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