Planet Networking & Communication FNSW-1601, Instruction Manual

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CHAPTER 4 OPTIMIZING
CONFIGURATION
4.1 Prior to Installation
Before installing the Fast Ethernet Switch models and con-
necting network devices, it is important to plan the new network
layout. Consider:
Dedicated Bandwidth: File servers and other
high-traffic hardware can improve if they have their own
direct connection with dedicated 10 or 100Mbps band-
width.
Full-Duplex: Determine which devices would benefit
from a Full Duplex connection and check that they
support it.
Fast Ethernet: 100Base-TX and 100Base-FX have
different rules for cable and distance. Make sure these
are followed.
Auto-Negotiation: Devices with different speeds may
be easily swapped when the other end of the cable is
fixed to a port with auto-negotiation.
4.2 Half- and Full-Duplex
The Fast Ethernet Switch supports both Half- and Full-Duplex
modes for 10Base-T and 100Base-TX. Half-Duplex mode is the
traditional data transfer mode: one station sends data while
other devices wait for the first to finish.
Full-Duplex is the simultaneous transmission and receiving of
data. It is only possible between two devices with a dedicated
link (e.g., switch-to-switch, switch-to-PC). Both of the devices
must be capable of, and set to, Full-Duplex
100Base-TX ports use auto-negotiation to detect and set the
line's operating mode.