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INTRODUCTION
1.4
FDSE TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEW
1.4.1
Why Full-Duplex Switched Ethernet?
The E2200 Series adapters can operate in both Standard Ethernet
mode, and Full-Duplex Switched Ethernet mode. There are many
benefits to be gained from operating in Full-Duplex Switched
Ethernet (FDSE) mode. Full-Duplex Ethernet operation can double
the throughput of an existing system while eliminating rewiring
costs, as it doubles network speed from 10 Mbps to 20 Mbps.
Full-Duplex operation is a prerequisite to the interactive,
multimedia network applications of the future. In pursuit of this
goal, Cabletron Systems is participating in the standards process
with the Full-Duplex Switched Ethernet Consortium (FDSEC), to
create an industry standard that will allow various manufacturer’s
products to coexist in twisted pair and fiber optic networks which
will have an aggregate bandwidth of 20 Mbps.
When increased bandwidth is required, users with E2200 Series
adapters will be able to simply upgrade their shared-access
10BASE-T hubs to Full-Duplex Switched Ethernet hubs. No other
hardware changes will be required at the Network Interface
Controller (NIC) end of the Ethernet links to operate in Full
Duplex Switched Ethernet mode.
In order to provide a full-duplex service based on existing IEEE
802.3 architecture, these prerequisites must be met:
•
The network fabric must be a switched-access medium.
•
The physical media must provide two channels (Transmit and
Receive).
•
The full-duplex 802.3 network must be run over shielded
twisted pair (STP), unshielded twisted pair (UTP), or fiber
optic cable. A switching hub must be used (for three or more
nodes) to interconnect the full-duplex segments.
