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CHAPTER 2: Introduction
2.1 General Overview
The Stackable MiniHub is a workplace hub in a very compact package.
It is simple to install and use in an office or lab environment, requiring no
special rack cabinets or wiring-closet apparatus. It is a standard physical-layer
Ethernet product and operates independently of all software.
Stackable MiniHubs provide a simple and inexpensive solution for
networking a personal multi-system office using 10BASE-T twisted-pair
cabling. They can expand from an eight-port hub up to 40 ports.
Six models are available:
• LE2801A, LE2801AE: Basic model, has eight shielded twisted-pair ports
in the front and an AUI port in the rear. LE2801A has a 120-VAC power
supply, LE2801AE has a 230-VAC power supply.
• LE2801A-BNC, LE2801AE-BNC: Same as LE2801A, but has one
additional BNC port in the rear.
• LE2801A-FO, LE2801AE-FO: Same as LE2801A, but has one additional
fiber-ST port in the rear.
Stackable MiniHubs are also well suited for small-to-medium-size office or
lab environments (two to 40 users) that need an independent Ethernet
network. They operate as self-sufficient units to provide 10BASE-T Ethernet
connectivity for local users and devices. Small independent networks built
using the Stackable MiniHubs are easily expanded by taking advantage of the
MiniHubs’ stacking ability.
The small size of the Stackable MiniHubs make them very useful for
demonstration situations in conference rooms and in exhibitions where a
temporary or expansion network is needed. The MiniHubs are also handy as a
piece of test equipment that can be easily inserted into the network to provide
a test port, and then removed after the testing is done. They take up minimal
space and use minimal power, and are rugged enough to be carried in a coat
pocket for emergencies.
Stackable MiniHubs fit easily into the workplace environment. They can
be table-top- or shelf-mounted, or you can use the included Velcro
®
strip to
mount MiniHubs on walls or on the back or side of a desk or cabinet. All of
the wiring connectors are in the same plane so that wiring space is neat and
minimal. The external power supply conveniently plugs into any available AC
wall receptacle or power strip.
2. Introduction