Designing with the MMAC
4-27
Network Design
The MMAC, as a modular networking chassis, makes this substitution and
replacement a simple procedure. In order to make the Ethernet repeating
functionality of the network simple and easy to upgrade, replace, or remove, the
Ethernet repeater is often a discrete device on the network. In the MMAC chassis,
the Ethernet repeater is a module which may be inserted into, and removed from,
the modular chassis. When an Ethernet network is designed, a repeater module is
placed in the chassis to perform that function. Should the repeater fail, that
module can be removed from the chassis and a new module can be slid into the
chassis to replace it. As the backup repeater is in the chassis, the original can be
tested and repaired. In this way, the network is unavailable for only a fraction of
the time that it would be if all the functions of the network were held in one
device.
This use of discrete, easily incorporated and replaced devices, called modules,
cards, or boards, provides the modular chassis with a level of flexibility to
support many concentrations of users and different types of physical media or
cabling through the proper selection of modules.
Technology Flexibility
The flexibility of a chassis is also dependent upon the number and types of
networks it supports. The use of a patented inter-module connection system
allows the MMAC to be configured with modules for Ethernet networks, Token
Ring networks, and FDDI networks, and allows these networks to operate in the
same chassis and communicate with one another without requiring external
bridges or routers. This connection system is based on the Flexible Network Bus,
or FNB technology that is the heart of the MMAC chassis.
The Flexible Network Bus is made up of communications channels which connect
modules in one MMAC chassis to each other. Due to the design of the FNB, it is
capable of supporting three contiguous Ethernet networks across the entire
backplane, four contiguous Token Ring networks across the entire backplane, and
one or more FDDI rings. The FNB allows the MMAC chassis to be utilized in a
number of network configurations.
Summary of Contents for MMAC-5FNB
Page 1: ...Cabletron Systems Networking Guide MMAC FNB Solutions ...
Page 2: ......
Page 4: ...ii ...
Page 10: ...viii ...
Page 188: ...Expansion Ethernet 8 12 Port Assignment and Virtual LANs ...
Page 194: ...Expansion Token Ring 9 6 Port Assignment ...