D-Link DES-5024 - Manual (Page 26)

Fast Ethernet Switching System User’s Guide
Connecting the DES-5024 to the Network
18
3
Connecting the DES-5024 to the
Network
This chapter covers the following:
•
Cable Specifications
•
Ports
•
Connecting the DES-5024 to another DES-5024
•
Connecting the DES-5024 to other switches and hubs
This section deals with making cables and connecting the DES-5024 to other devices. It
is extremely important that cables have the correct pin arrangement and that the proper
cables be used when connecting to servers, switches, hubs, workstations and other
devices.
Cable Specifications
Use the following guidelines when handling cables:
•
Do not stretch or bend cables.
•
Do not put copper cables near sources of electromagnetic interference. Fiber optic
cables are immune to electromagnetic interference.
•
Do not create trip hazards by laying cables in aisles and walkways.
•
Secure cables to the floor when routing in aisles or walkways.
Do not use telephone cable. Telephone cable does not support Ethernet or Fast Ethernet.
Copper Cable
In order for Ethernet or Fast Ethernet to work the wires must be arranged correctly inside
the RJ-45 connector. The most common problem on Ethernet or Fast Ethernet networks is
the cable. If you migrate from Ethernet to Fast Ethernet, make sure the cables are pinned
out properly.
There are two types of cables: straight through and crossover. Category 3, 4, or 5
UTP/STP cable has eight wires inside the sheath. The wires form four pairs. Straight
through cable has the same pin out, inside the RJ-45 connector, at both ends. Crossover
cable has a different pin arrangement at each end. Fast Ethernet does not tolerate
incorrect pin arrangements. You must use the correct pin arrangement in order for the
DES-5024 to work properly. See Figure 9 for an example of straight through and
crossover cable.
The type of cable you use depends on the speed of your network. A network running at
10 Mbps can use lower grade cable than a network running at 100 Mbps., Table 1: Cable
Specifications, shows the cable requirements for Ethernet and Fast Ethernet networks.