4
Making Network Connections
Table 4-4 Maximum 1000BASE-LH Gigabit Ethernet Cable Length
Fiber Size
9/125 micron
single-mode fiber
100 Mbps Fast Ethernet Collision Domain
Type
100BASE-TX Category 5 or better 100-ohm UTP or STP 100 m (328 ft)
10 Mbps Ethernet Collision Domain
Type
10BASE-T
Cable Labeling and Connection Records
When planning a network installation, it is essential to label the opposing ends of
cables and to record where each cable is connected. Doing so will enable you to
easily locate inter-connected devices, isolate faults and change your topology
without need for unnecessary time consumption.
To best manage the physical implementations of your network, follow these
guidelines:
• Clearly label the opposing ends of each cable.
• Using your building's floor plans, draw a map of the location of all
network-connected equipment. For each piece of equipment, identify the devices
to which it is connected.
• Note the length of each cable and the maximum cable length supported by the
switch ports.
• For ease of understanding, use a location-based key when assigning prefixes to
your cable labeling.
• Use sequential numbers for cables that originate from the same equipment.
• Differentiate between racks by naming accordingly.
• Label each separate piece of equipment.
• Display a copy of your equipment map, including keys to all abbreviations at each
equipment rack.
4-6
Fiber Bandwidth
N/A
Table 4-5 Maximum Fast Ethernet Cable Lengths
Cable Type
Table 4-6 Maximum Ethernet Cable Length
Cable Type
Category 3 or better 100-ohm UTP
Maximum Cable Length
2 m - 70 km
(7 ft - 43.5 miles)
Max. Cable Length
Max. Cable Length
100 m (328 ft)
Connector
LC
Connector
RJ-45
Connector
RJ-45