2
Network Planning
Remote Connections with Fiber Cable
Fiber optic technology allows for longer cabling than any other media type. Using a
100BASE-FX multimode fiber (MMF) slide-in module, you can run a link up to 2 km.
A 100BASE-FX single-mode fiber (SMF) link can run up to 20 km. This allows the
switch to serve as a collapsed backbone, providing direct connectivity for a
widespread LAN.
A 100BASE-FX slide-in module can be used to interconnect remote network
segments. While an SFP transceiver in a 1000BASE-T/SFP module can be used for
a Gigabit fiber connection between floors in the same building, or can be used to
provide a link to other buildings in a campus setting.
The figure below illustrates this switch connecting multiple segments with fiber
cable.
Server Farm
Remote Switch
Figure 2-3. Remote Connections with Fiber Cable
2-4
100BASE-FX SMF
(20 kilometers)
10/100 Mbps Segments
...
Headquarters
Remote Switch
...
1000BASE-LX SMF
(5 kilometers)