5
Connecting Another OfficeConnect Hub
You may wish to connect another OfficeConnect hub
to your Dual Speed Hub 8. Alternatively, you may
wish to add your Hub to an existing 10Mbps
network. When extending your network, you should
be aware of the configuration rules given below.
If you connect two Dual Speed Hub 8 units directly
together, the link between them operates at 100Mbps.
Fast Ethernet (100Mbps) Configuration Rules
The Dual Speed Hub 8 is a Class II hub. You can
connect directly two Class II Fast Ethernet hubs
(Class I Fast Ethernet hubs cannot be connected
directly to other Fast Ethernet hubs). The total length
of cable (A + B + C below) between two
workstations, or between a workstation and a
non-repeater piece of equipment (such as a switch),
must not exceed 205m (672ft). Each cable (A, B, or
C) must not exceed 100m (328ft).
3Com recommends that the cable (B) between the
Fast Ethernet hubs is no longer than 5m (16.4ft).
This allows the maximum hub-to-workstation cable
length (A or C) of 100m (328ft) to be used, as shown
in the example.
Configuration Rules and Example of a Fast Ethernet (100Mbps) Network
Ethernet (10Mbps) Configuration Rules
You can connect a maximum of four Ethernet
(10Mbps) hubs in series between workstations, or
between a workstation and a non-repeater piece of
equipment (such as a switch). Each cable must not
exceed 100m (328ft). An example is shown below.
Example of Ethernet (10Mbps) Network
Making the Connection to Another Hub
You can connect a 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, or
another 10/100BASE-TX OfficeConnect hub to any
port on the Dual Speed Hub 8. Use the following
method:
1
Using a straight-through cable, connect the
MDI/MDIX port of the Dual Speed Hub 8 to any of
the ports on the other hub (as shown in the diagram
below). If using port 8 on the other hub, set its
MDI/MDIX switch to MDIX (out).
2
Set the MDI/MDIX switch for the MDI/MDIX port on
the Dual Speed Hub 8 to MDI (in).
Correct Connections for OfficeConnect Hubs
Powering Up and Checking Connections
When you have connected all the appropriate
workstations and other equipment to the Hub, power
on the Hub. For each port with a connection, a Port
Status LED should be on. If the port is operating at
100Mbps, the corresponding LED in the upper row of
Port Status LEDs is on. If the port is operating at
10Mpbs, the corresponding LED in the lower row is
on. If neither LED is on, check your connections.
CAUTION
:
Do not power the Hub off and on quickly.
Wait about 5 seconds between power cycles.
Spot Checks
At frequent intervals, visually check that:
Q
The Alert LED is off — this is the best way to find out
if there are problems with your network
Q
Case vents are not obstructed
Q
Cabling is secure and not pulled taut
If you suspect a problem, refer to “Problem Solving”
on page 7.
