36
C
HAPTER
3: I
NSTALLATION
n
MDI (Media Dependent Interface) is a typical type of Ethernet interface provided
by network adapters. MDIX is crossover media-dependent interface, which is
commonly found on a Hub or LAN switch.
Ethernet cable
1
Connecting electrical Ethernet interface cable.
Ethernet interfaces usually use category 5 twisted pair cables, as shown in the
following figure:
Figure 23
Ethernet cable
Ethernet cables fit into the following two categories:
■
Standard cable, also called straight-through cable, at both ends of which, wires
are crimped in the RJ-45 connectors in the same sequence. The cable connects
different categories of devices, such as a terminal device (PC for example) or
router to a Hub or LAN switch. The cable accompanying the router is
straight-through cable.
■
Crossover cable, at both ends of which, wires are crimped in the RJ-45
connectors in different sequences. The cable connects the same category of
devices, such as PC to PC or PC to router. You can make crossover cables
yourself as needed.
n
In making network cables, shielded cables are preferred for electromagnetic
compatibility sake.
1
Connecting electrical Ethernet interface cable.
For the 10/100/1000 Mbps fiber-optic Ethernet interfaces, select single mode or
multi-mode optical fibers depending on the type of the installed 1000Base-X SFP
modules. As the interfaces that these SFP modules provide use LC-type fiber-optic
connectors, you must use fibers with LC-type connectors for them. All these SFP
modules are hot swappable.
n
SFP modules are optional. They are provided only when ordered.
Connecting the Ethernet cable
n
For 10/100/1000 Mbps fiber and electrical interface, the system considers the
electrical interface as the operating interface by default. Users can use the
combo
enable
command to switch between them in interface view.
1
Connecting electrical Ethernet interface cable.
Follow the steps below to connect an Ethernet cable:
