Unpacking And Setup - D-Link DFE-904 User Manual

When used as a 10BASE-T Ethernet hub, the DFE-904 can interconnect end
nodes and other 10BASE-T hubs in many different combinations, as long as the
connection rules given in this guide are followed. Most often, the hub is used
either (a) to interconnect four end nodes, or (b) to interconnect three end nodes
and another hub. This guide covers both these and other ways to use the hub on a
10BASE-T network.
Terminology tip:
When used as a 100BASE-TX Fast Ethernet hub, the DFE-904 can interconnect
either (a) four end nodes, or (b) three end nodes and another hub. These are the
only connection methods allowed by the 100BASE-TX standard for hubs such as
the DFE-904. This guide covers both methods in detail.
It is assumed in this guide that you will first use the DFE-904 as a 10BASE-T
Ethernet hub and later convert your network to 100BASE-TX Fast Ethernet. The
requirements for each type of network are explained in detail in the relevant
sections of this guide.
This chapter provides information on the unpacking and initial installation of
your hub.
An end node is a device that can originate signals and be
addressed by other devices on a network. Servers, single-
user computers, bridges, routers, and switching hubs are end
nodes; hubs such as the DFE-904 are not.
The DFE-904 is the type of hub technically known as a
multi-port repeater or repeating hub. Unless preceded by the
word switching, the word hub in this guide always refers to a
repeating hub.

Unpacking and Setup

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