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2.11 Using the Stacking Feature
The 3524 v.1.1 offers a stacking feature that allows the user to stack up to eight units, all sharing one IP
address of the master switch (unit #1). This is an efficient and cost-effective way to add ports as needed.
The following lists the characteristics of stacking that the user needs to be aware of:
•
Uses any physical media supported by IC 3524: copper or fiber, Fast Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet
(see the stacking kit {sold separately} shown below); or a special, cost-effective Stacking Kit
(available Q2-02, not shown)
Stacking Kit
•
All stacked units are managed through connection to the master switch, via console, telnet or web
interfaces
Note
: While the user may manage the stack via console, telnet or web interface, the initial
formation of the stack may only be done by connection to a console.
•
The switches need no extra software, but they must all have the 1.1 firmware installed (see
Chapter 3.14 for firmware upgrade instructions)
Follow the steps below to install (build) a stack:
1. Physically stack the units, in an equipment rack, or on a flat, stable surface (Asanté recommends
that the stack is formed from the bottom up for ease of adding additional units).
2. Units are connected via the Gigabit ports (see section 2.4 for instructions on installing the optional
modules). Starting with the first unit in the stack (the bottom unit, in the photo below), connect the
Ethernet cable from Gigabit port #26 to the Gigabit port #25 of the next unit and continue the
connections to the last unit in the stack. The result is a stack with
n
x 24 10/100 ports and 2 Gigabit
ports, where
n
is the number of units in the stack (up to eight).