Cabletron Systems Cabletron BRIM-F6, Networking Manual

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The Workgroup Approach
3-8 Stackables
In addition, stackable and standalone devices are typically available for only the
most common of networking media: UTP and STP. In situations where several
users connect to the network with UTP, a few make their connections with fiber
optics, and there is a handful of existing coaxial cable segments, a solution using
stackables would have to provide a series of external transceivers at each location.
While not extremely expensive, these external transceivers can become
maintenance and design hurdles when troubleshooting or expanding the
network. Modules for modular chassis, with support for a wider variety of
networking media, are more able to accommodate different existing and future
needs.
The design of a modular chassis also allows for the segmentation and
interconnection of networks within a single chassis, the incorporation of power
redundancy and added fault-tolerance, and a longer path of growth and
expansion, both to add new users and incorporate new technologies.