3com CoreBuilder 5000 User Guide

CoreBuilder™ 5000
®
Ethernet 20-Port and 40-Port 10BASE-T Module User Guide
http://www.3com.com/
3Com Corporation 5400 Bayfront Plaza Santa Clara, California 95052-8145
Copyright © 3Com Corporation, 1997. All rights reserved. No part of this documentation may be reproduced in any form or by any means, or used to make any derivative work (such as translation, transformation, or adaptation) without permission from 3Com Corporation. Portions of this document are reproduced in whole or part with permission from third parties.
3Com Corporation reserves the right to revise this documentation and to make changes in content from time to time without obligation on the part of 3Com Corporation to provide notification of such revision or change.
3Com Corporation provides this documentation without warranty of any kind, either implied or expressed, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. 3Com may make improvements or changes in the products or programs described in this documentation at any time.
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT LEGENDS:
If you are a United States government agency, then this documentation and the software described herein are provided to you subject to the following restricted rights:
For units of the Department of Defense:
Restricted Rights Legend: Use, duplication, or disclosure by the Government is subject to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c) (1) (ii) for Restricted Rights in Technical Data and Computer Software Clause at 48 C.F.R. 52.227-7013.
For civilian agencies:
Restricted Rights Legend: Use, reproduction, or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth in subparagraph (a) through (d) of the Commercial Computer Software – Restricted Rights Clause at 48 C.F.R. 52.227-19 and the limitations set forth in the 3Com Corporation standard commercial agreement for the software. Unpublished rights reserved under the copyright laws of the United States.
If there is any software on removable media described in this documentation, it is furnished under a license agreement included with the product as a separate document, in the hardcopy documentation, or on the removable media in a directory file named LICENSE.TXT. If you are unable to locate a copy, please contact 3Com and a copy will be sent to you.
Federal Communications Commission Notice
This equipment was tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case you must correct the interference at your own expense.
Canadian Emissions Requirements
This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
EMC Directive Compliance
This equipment was tested and conforms to the Council Directive 89/336/EEC for electromagnetic compatibility. Conformity with this directive is based upon compliance with the following harmonized standards:
EN 55022 – Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Interference EN 50082-1 – Electromagnetic Compatibility Generic Immunity Standard: Residential, Commercial, and
Light Industry Warning: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio interference, in
which case you may be required to take adequate measures. Compliance with this directive depends on the use of shielded cables.
Low Voltage Directive Compliance
This equipment was tested and conforms to the Council Directive 72/23/EEC for safety of electrical equipment. Conformity with this directive is based upon compliance with the following harmonized standard:
EN 60950 – Safety of Information Technology Equipment
ii
VCCI Class 1 Compliance
This equipment is in the 1st Class category (information equipment to be used in commercial or industrial areas) and conforms to the standards set by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference by Information Technology Equipment aimed at preventing radio interference in commercial or industrial areas.
Consequently, when the equipment is used in a residential area or in an adjacent area, radio interference may be caused to radio and TV receivers, and so on.
Read the instructions for correct handling.
Fiber Cable Classification Notice
Use this equipment only with fiber cable classified by Underwriters Laboratories as to fire and smoke characteristics in accordance with Section 770-2(b) and Section 725-2(b) of the National Electrical Code.
UK General Approval Statement
The CoreBuilder 5000 Integrated System Hub and ONline System Concentrator are manufactured to the International Safety Standard EN 60950 and are approved in the U.K. under the General Approval Number NS/G/12345/J/100003 for indirect connection to the public telecommunication network.
Trademarks
Unless otherwise indicated, 3Com registered trademarks are registered in the United States and may or may not be registered in other countries.
3Com, Boundary Routing, CardFacts, EtherLink, LANplex, LANsentry, LinkBuilder, NETBuilder, NETBuilder II, NetFacts, Parallel Tasking, SmartAgent, TokenDisk, TokenLink, Transcend, TriChannel, and ViewBuilder are registered trademarks of 3Com Corporation.
3TECH, CELLplex, CoreBuilder, EtherDisk, EtherLink II, FDDILink, MultiProbe, NetProbe, and ONline are trademarks of 3Com Corporation.
3ComFacts is a service mark of 3Com Corporation. The 3Com Multichannel Architecture Communications System is registered under U.S. Patent
Number 5,301,303. AT&T is a registered trademark of American Telephone and Telegraph Company. Banyan and VINES are registered trademarks of Banyan Systems Inc. CompuServe is a registered trademark of CompuServe, Inc. DEC, DECnet, DELNI, POLYCENTER, VAX, VT100, VT220, and the Digital logo are trademarks of Digital
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Microsoft Corporation. V30 is a trademark of NEC Corporation. NetWare and Novell are registered trademarks of Novell, Incorporated.
IPX is a trademark of Novell, Incorporated. OSF and OSF/Motif are registered trademarks of Open Software Foundation, Inc. ONC, OpenWindows, Solaris, Solstice, Sun, Sun Microsystems, SunNet Manager, and SunOS are trademarks
of Sun Microsystems, Inc.
iii
SPARCstation is a trademark licensed exclusively to Sun Microsystems Inc. OPEN LOOK is a registered trademark of Unix System Laboratories, Inc. UNIX is a registered trademark of X/Open Company, Ltd. in the United States and other countries. Other brand and product names may be registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective holders.
iv

CONTENTS

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
Audience 1 Structure of This Guide 2 Document Conventions 3 Related Documents 4
3Com Documents 4 Reference Documents 4
1 INTRODUCTION
CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Description 1-2 CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Features 1-2 CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Benefits 1-3
20-Port Sample Module Application 1-5 Theory of Operation 1-6 Where to Go From Here 1-6
2 DESIGNING AND EXPANDING THE NETWORK
Understanding General Network Configuration Rules 2-1
Before Configuring Your Network 2-2
Basic Network Rules 2-2
LAN Product Distances 2-4 Configuring Fiber Backbone, Twisted Pair to-the-Desk 2-5
Fiber Backbone Configuration Rules 2-5
Configuration Example of Fiber Backbone, Twisted Pair
to-the-Desk 2-6
Fiber Backbone Configuration Verification 2-6 Configuring Twisted Pair Backbone, Twisted Pair to-the-Desk 2-7
Twisted Pair Backbone Configuration Rules 2-7
Configuration Example of Twisted Pair Backbone, Twisted
Pair-to-the-Desk 2-8
Using Patch Panels 2-9 Using Module Workgroups 2-9
Workgroup Definition 2-9 Dividing the Network into Workgroups 2-10
Workgroup Example 2-10
Setting Redundant Links 2-13
Setting Redundancy Between Two Ports on One 40-Port Module 2-14
Setting Redundancy Between Ports On Two 20/40-Port Modules 2-15
Where to Go From Here 2-16
3 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
Precautionary Procedures 3-2 Unpacking Procedures 3-2 Quick Installation 3-3 Setting DIP Switches 3-4
Using DIP Switches 3-4 Setting the DIP Switches 3-4
DIP Switch Definition 3-5 Installing the Module 3-7 Configuring the Module 3-10
Enable/Disable/
Shutdown Ports 3-11
Set Port Redundancy 3-12
Set Remote Diagnostics 3-12
Enable/Disable Link Integrity 3-13
Set Alert Filter 3-13
Set Auto Polarity 3-14
Set Port Squelch 3-14
Network Selection 3-15
Assigning Ports On the Module to a Network 3-15 Assigning a Monitor Card to a Network 3-15
Showing Module Configurations 3-16
Show Module Command 3-16
vi
Show Port Command 3-17 Attaching the Network Monitor Card 3-18 Gathering Statistics 3-19
Gathering Statistics 3-19
Monitoring the Network 3-19
Monitor Command 3-20 Show Counter Command 3-21
Monitoring the Front Panel 3-22
Module Status LED 3-22
Port Status and Activity LEDs 3-22 Verifying LEDs and the Network 3-24
Using the CoreBuilder 5000 Controller Module to Verify Bi-Color LED
Operation 3-25
Using the DMM to Verify Network Connections 3-25 Where to Go From Here 3-26
4 TROUBLESHOOTING
Troubleshooting Using the Module Status LED 4-2 Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs 4-3 Technical Assistance 4-4 Where to Go From Here 4-4
A SPECIFICATIONS
Electrical Specifications A-1 Environmental Specifications A-2 Mechanical Specifications A-2 General Specifications A-2 Twisted Pair Connectors and Cables A-3
Twisted Pair Connectors A-3
Twisted Pair Cables A-4
Connecting Twisted Pair Cables A-4
vii
B TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Online Technical Services B-1
World Wide Web Site B-2 3Com Bulletin Board Service B-2
Access by Analog Modem B-2
Access by Digital Modem B-2 3ComFacts Automated Fax Service B-3 3ComForum on CompuServe Online Service B-3
Support From Your Network Supplier B-4 Support From 3Com Corporation B-5 Returning Products for Repair B-6 Accessing the 3Com MIB B-6 Contacting 3Com Technical Publications B-7
INDEX
3COM CORPORATION LIMITED WARRANTY
viii

FIGURES

1-1 CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20-Port and 40-Port Module 1-4 1-2 Typical 20-Port Module Application 1-5 2-1 Sample Configuration Distance Calculation 2-6 2-2 Unshielded Twisted Pair Network 2-8 2-3 Typical Corporate Organizational Structure 2-10 2-4 20-Port Module Workgroup Port Allocation 2-12 2-5 Redundant Twisted Pair Configuration 2-14 3-1 20/40-Port Module and DIP Switch Location 3-5 3-2 Installing a CoreBuilder 5000 Module 3-8 3-3 Opened and Closed Module Ejectors 3-9 3-4 20-Port Module Cable Connection 3-10 3-5 Remote Diagnostics Example 3-12 3-6 Attaching the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet Monitor Card 3-18 3-7 20-Port and 40-Port Module Faceplate 3-23
A-1 RJ-45 Connector Pinouts A-4
ix

TABLES

2-1 Seven Basic Network Rules 2-2 2-2 LAN Product Equivalent Distances 2-4 2-3 Sample Network Reorganization 2-11 3-1 Quick Installation Checklist 3-3 3-2 Channel Select DIP Switch Settings 3-6 3-3 20/40-Port Module LED Interpretations 3-24 4-1 Module Status LED Troubleshooting 4-2 4-2 Port Status LED Troubleshooting 4-3
xi

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

This guide explains how to install and operate the 3Com CoreBuilder throughout this guide as the 20/40-Port module). This guide also includes information on monitoring this module using a 3Com appendix explains cabling guidelines and options for the 20/40-Port module.
Before installing or using the 20/40-Port module, read Chapters 1, 2, and 3 of this guide for basic installation and operation instructions.
5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module (referenced
®
CoreBuilder 5000 Distributed Management Module. An

Audience This guide is intended for the following people at your site:

Network manager or administrator
Hardware installer
2 HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

Structure of This Guide

This guide contains the following chapters and appendix:
Chapter 1, Introduction – Introduces the functions and features of the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module.
Chapter 2, Designing and Expanding the Network – Shows possible network configurations using the CoreBuilder 5000 hub and the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module.
Chapter 3, Installing and Operating the Module – Provides illustrated procedures for installing the 20/40-Port module into the CoreBuilder 5000 hub. Also shows front panel LEDs and DIP switches on the module and describes network management commands.
Chapter 4, Troubleshooting – Provides help in isolating and correcting problems that may arise when installing or operating this module.
Appendix A, Specifications – Provides electrical, environmental, and mechanical specifications for the module. Provides information on RJ-45 connectors and twisted pair cables.
Appendix B, Technical Support – Lists the various methods for contacting the 3Com technical support organization and for accessing other product support services.
Index
Document Conventions 3

Document Conventions

The following document conventions are used in this manual:
Convention Indicates Example
Courier text User input In the Agent Information Form,
enter MIS in the New Contact field.
System output After pressing the Apply button, the
Bold command string Path names Before you begin, read the
User-substituted identifiers
Capitalized text in plain brackets
Italics Text emphasis,
Icon Notice Type Alerts you to...
Information note Important features or instructions
Keyboard entry by the user
document titles
system displays the message Transmitting data.
readme.txt file located in
/usr/s nm /agen ts.
Type your password and press [ENTER].
Ensure that you press the Apply button after you add the new search parameters.
Caution Risk of personal safety, system damage, or loss
Warning Risk of severe personal injury
of data
4 HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

Related Documents This section provides information on supporting documentation,

including:

3Com Documents

Reference Documents

3Com Documents The following documents provide additional information on 3Com
products:
CoreBuilder 5000 Integrated System Hub Installation and Operation Guide – Provides information on the installation, operation, and
configuration of the CoreBuilder 5000 hub. This guide also describes the principal features of the CoreBuilder 5000 Fault-Tolerant Controller Module.
Distributed Management Module User Guide – Provides information on the CoreBuilder 5000 Distributed Management Module’s operation, installation, and configuration. This guide also describes the software commands associated with the distributed management module.
Distributed Management Module Commands Guide – Describes each management command by providing detailed information on the command’s format, use, and description.
For a complete list of 3Com documents, contact your 3Com representative.
Reference Documents The following documents supply related background information:
Case, J., Fedor, M., Scoffstall, M., and J. Davin, The Simple Network
Management Protocol, RFC 1157, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Performance Systems International and the MIT Laboratory for Computer Science, May 1990.
Rose, M., and K. McCloghrie, Structure and Identification of Management Information for TCP/IP-based Internets, RFC 1155,
Performance Systems International and Hughes LAN Systems, May
1990.
1

INTRODUCTION

This chapter describes the 3Com CoreBuilder 10BASE-T Module (Model Number 6120M-TPP) and the 40-Port 10BASE-T Module (Model Number 6140M-TPP). For more information on the CoreBuilder 5000 hub, refer to the CoreBuilder 5000 Integrated System Hub Installation and Operation Guide.
This chapter contains the following sections:
CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Description
CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Features
CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Benefits
Theory of Operation
Where to Go From Here
5000 Ethernet 20-Port
1-2 INTRODUCTION
CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Description
CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Features
The 3Com® CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module is a port-switching module which:
Supports RJ-45 based 10BASE-T wiring
Enables users to assign a backplane segment at the port level of the
module
The CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20-Port 10BASE-T Module offers a single slot solution for networks utilizing RJ-45 connectors in their 10BASE-T installation. The CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 40-Port 10BASE-T Module offers an additional 20 ports in a two slot solution for networks with a large environment of RJ-45-based 10BASE-T wiring.
The 20/40-Port module connects up to 20 or 40 devices (PCs, terminals, printers, modems) to the 3Com CoreBuilder 5000 hub. The module provides 20 or 40 twisted pair Ethernet ports which may be switched individually to any of the CoreBuilder 5000 backplane channels or extended (isolated) segments.
The CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module provides the following features:
Remote Diagnostics Mode – Checks driver and receiver integrity.
Private Line Card – Supports security through the private line card
(PLC). The PLC provides continuous eavesdropping and intrusion protection without impacting network performance.
Two Daughter Cards – Allows you to connect network monitor
cards for network management.
Hot swap capability – Allows you to install or remove the module
without having to power down the hub.
Scalable network management architecture – Enables you to
gather Ethernet and Remote Network Monitoring (RMON) network statistics for any of the CoreBuilder 5000 backplane segments. Includes up to two Network Monitor Cards (NMC) per module for in depth monitoring of the network.
In addition, both modules support Repeater Management Information Base (MIB) statistics without the need for a network monitor card.
CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Benefits 1-3
CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Benefits
The CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module provides the following benefits:
Provides per-port switching to all eight of the CoreBuilder 5000
backplane segments and isolated segments. Supports up to eight segments, simultaneously, in any combination.
Provides IEEE Repeater statistics gathering for monitoring of the
CoreBuilder 5000 hub’s security and network management architecture.
Offers high port density at a low cost per port.
Supports up to 100 meters on 10BASE-T-compliant unshielded
twisted pair (UTP) wiring as well as shielded twisted pair (STP) wiring.
Supports the CoreBuilder 5000 Private Line Card for private Ethernet
conversations.
Maintains inventory information for the 20/40-Port module in
non-volatile RAM (NVRAM). Information includes the module serial number, power requirements, power class settings (for example, powerup priority), and date of manufacture and a user note pad for entering installation-specific information.
Supports CoreBuilder 5000 hub power management architecture
which enables administrators to prioritize the allocation of power to modules.
1-4 INTRODUCTION
Figure 1-1 illustrates the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20-Port and
40-Port 10BASE-T Modules.
RJ-45 (ports 1 to 20)
1X
2X
3X
4X
5X
6X
7X
8X
9X
10X
11X
12X
13X
14X
15X
16X
17X
18X
19X
20X
1
4
7
10
13
16
19
10BASE-T E20PS-TP
TRAFFIC STA
MOD STA
2X
3X
4X
5X
6X
7X
8X
9X
10X
11X
12X
13X
14X
15X
16X
17X
18X
19X
20X
Module Status LED
Bi-Color Port Status/Activity LEDs
TRAFFIC STATUS
MODULE
STATUS
1
21
4
24
7
27
10
30
13
33
16
36
19
39
21X
1X
2X
2X
22X
23X
3X
3X
24X
4X
4X
25X
5X
5X
26X
6X
6X
27X
7X
7X
28X
8X
8X
29X
9X
9X
30X
10X
10X
31X
11X
11X
12X
12X
32X
13X
33X
13X
34X
14X
14X
35X
15X
15X
16X
16X
36X
17X
17X
37X
38X
18X
18X
39X
19X
19X
40X
20X
20X
RJ-45 (ports 1 to 40)
Figure 1-1 CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20-Port and 40-Port Module
CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module Benefits 1-5
20-Port Sample
Module Application
This section describes a sample application for the 20-Port module.
Attaching either CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 10BASE-T Module directly to the hub using an RJ-45 cable provides the following connections:
20-Port Module – Provides 20 twisted pair ports
40-Port Module – Provides 40 twisted pair ports
You can attach the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20-Port 10BASE-T Module using an RJ-45 cable directly to the hub which provides connections for the 20 twisted pair ports. The CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 40-Port 10BASE-T Module has the same application except the 40-Port module offers an additional 20 ports and occupies a second slot.
20-Port module
CoreBuilder 5000 hub
RJ-45 cables
Figure 1-2 Typical 20-Port Module Application
1-6 INTRODUCTION

Theory of Operation

Where to Go From Here

The CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 10BASE-T 20/40-Port Module offers a solution for customers utilizing RJ-45 connectors in their 10BASE-T installation.
Both modules offer:
Per-port switching connectivity for STP and UTP 10BASE-T networks
Support for network monitoring and private line cards
Easy configuration using the CoreBuilder 5000 Manager
20 or 40 twisted pair Ethernet ports which you can switch
individually to any of the 8 CoreBuilder 5000 backplane channels or 8 extended segments in any combination of 8
Once you are familiar with the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module, evaluate the environment in which you plan to use the module and go to Chapter 2. Chapter 2, Designing and Expanding the Network, describes cabling considerations and configuration examples specific to the 20/40-Port module in the CoreBuilder 5000 hub.
DESIGNING AND EXPANDING THE
2
NETWORK
This chapter describes how to configure networks that use the CoreBuilder 5000 hub and the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module.
This chapter contains the following topics:
Understanding General Network Configuration Rules
Configuring Fiber Backbone, Twisted Pair to-the-Desk
Configuring Twisted Pair Backbone, Twisted Pair to-the-Desk
Using Patch Panels
Using Module Workgroups
Setting Redundant Links
Where to Go From Here
CAUTION: To ensure proper operation, install all equipment using only approved cables. Refer to Appendix A, Specifications, for information on twisted pair connector and cable requirements.

Understanding General Network Configuration Rules

This section describes general rules for configuring an Ethernet network using fiber as the backbone medium, and twisted pair as the horizontal medium. It also provides rules to ensure that your network configuration conforms to distance limitations imposed by Ethernet and networking equipment.
The following topics are discussed:
Before Configuring Your Network
Basic Network Rules
LAN Product Distances
2-2 DESIGNING AND EXPANDING THE NETWORK
Before Configuring
Before configuring your network, consider your:
Your Network
Network size from end-to-end. Is it:
100 meters
1000 meters
4000 meters
Greater than 4000 meters
Plans for expansion. Once the network expands beyond a certain
size, you may need to add a switch or an additional internetworking device.

Basic Network Rules Table 2-1

The seven basic network rules to keep in mind when you construct
your network
3Com recommendations for these rules
For hardware-specific information on the 20/40-Port module, refer to Appendix A, Specifications.
Table 2-1 Seven Basic Network Rules
lists:
Rule Definition Recommendations/Notes 1 If possible, use 10BASE-FB
as the backbone medium.
Use 62.5 micron cable to conform with IEEE 10BASE-F and ANSI FDDI standards.
Use ST-type connectors.
2 Wire the backbone in a star
topology for proper fault isolation.
Make sure to lay extra fiber cables. The extra cost is small and you need them as your network grows.
The star topology conforms to Ethernet and FDDI wiring. Ensure that you run at least two FDDI fiber strands to each backbone connection.
Understanding General Network Configuration Rules 2-3
Table 2-1 Seven Basic Network Rules (continued)
Rule Definition Recommendations/Notes 3 The maximum fiber Ethernet
network diameter is 4200 meters of fiber cable.
4 Certain LAN devices on the
network shrink the maximum Fiber Ethernet network diameter to less than 4200 meters.
5 Assume that 1 meter of
coaxial or twisted pair cable is equal to 1 meter of fiber cable.
6 The fiber link distances must
not exceed the limits imposed by the optical power budget.
7 When in doubt, use a switch
or bridge.
4200 meters is the maximum distance between any two transceivers on the network.
4200 meters does not include the transceiver cable (that is, drop or patch cable) that connects a device with an external transceiver. Transceiver cables can extend up to 50 meters. Thus, total network diameter can be as much as 4300 meters (4200 m + 2 * 50 m) between any two nodes.
Many LAN products delay the signal that travels through them. This is known as equivalent distance. Each microsecond delay:
Reduces the maximum link distance Shrinks the network diameter by
approximately 200 meters of fiber cable
Table 2-2
3Com products. A conservative rule. For example, the
actual equivalence is about 1.1 meters of coaxial for each meter of fiber. For simplicity, assume 1 meter.
For 62.5 micron cable, you can utilize up to 4000 meters point-to-point using the CoreBuilder 5000 or ONline fiber modules. If you have poor quality cable or cross several patch panels, you may have to sacrifice some distance in cable length.
Some older Ethernet fiber optic products are less powerful than CoreBuilder 5000 fiber module optics. If connecting to an Ethernet fiber optic product, remember that the least powerful device determines the maximum point-to-point distance.
If you are not certain if you have exceeded allowable network distances, use a bridge to extend the network.
lists Equivalent Distances for
2-4 DESIGNING AND EXPANDING THE NETWORK
LAN Product
Distances
When you configure your network, each product requires a different LAN equivalent distance. LAN equivalence is the sum of the incoming and outgoing module port signals. 3Com product modules have different LAN equivalent distances. Ta b le 2 -2
lists the LAN product
equivalent distances required for each LAN product.
Table 2-2 LAN Product Equivalent Distances
Equivalent
LAN Product
CoreBuilder 5000 and ONline Ethernet 10BASE-T Modules 585
Incoming signal to TP port 420 Outgoing signal from TP port 165
CoreBuilder 5000 and ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Modules 190
Incoming signal to fiber port 140 Outgoing signal from fiber port 50
ONline Ethernet FOIRL Module 560
Incoming signal to fiber port 330
Outgoing signal from fiber port 230 ONline Ethernet Transceiver Module 0 ORnet Star Coupler (8 or 14 port) 180 ONline Ethernet BNC Module 900
Incoming signal to BNC port 450
Outgoing signal from BNC port 450 ONline Ethernet Repeater Module 800
Incoming signal to AUI port 600
Outgoing signal from AUI port 200 IEEE Repeater 800
Distance (meters)
Configuring Fiber Backbone, Twisted Pair to-the-Desk 2-5
Configuring Fiber Backbone, Twisted Pair to-the-Desk
Fiber Backbone
Configuration Rules
This section describes:

Fiber Backbone Configuration Rules

Fiber Backbone Configuration Verification
Fiber Backbone Configuration Verification
When you configure a network with unshielded twisted pair cabling to the desk and fiber for the backbone, the following rules apply:
Add a bridge if you will exceed 4 full repeater hops.
If traffic travels into a port on any repeater-based module and out
the backplane, then the module counts as a ½-repeater hop.
If traffic travels into the module through one port and out another
port on the same or a different module, then the module counts as 1 full repeater hop.
The equivalent fiber distance for the 3Com Ethernet 10BASE-FB
Modules (see Table 2-1
140 meters for signals that enter a 10BASE-FB module port at the
, Rule 4) is:
front panel.
50 meters for signals that internally enter a 10BASE-FB module
through the CoreBuilder 5000 hub backplane.
The equivalent fiber distance for the 20/40-Port modules
(see Table 2-1
420 meters for signals that enter the 20/40-Port module port at the
, Rule 4) is:
front panel.
165 meters for signals that internally enter a 20/40-Port module
through the CoreBuilder 5000 hub backplane.
For each pair of 20/40-Port modules that a signal travels through, deduct a fiber equivalent distance of 585 meters (420 m + 165 m = 585 m) from the overall allowable network diameter. You must also deduct fiber equivalent distance if a signal enters the 20/40-Port module through one port and exits another port of the same 20/40-Port module. The fiber equivalent distance counts as 585 meters of fiber equivalent distance, and as a full repeater hop.
2-6 DESIGNING AND EXPANDING THE NETWORK
Configuration
Example of Fiber
Backbone, Twisted
Pair to-the-Desk
Fiber backbone
1000 m
The sample configuration shown in Figure 2-1
illustrates how to
determine if the transceivers are within legal Ethernet distance limits.
The 24-gauge unshielded twisted pair cable is used to connect 10BASE-T Transceivers to the 20/40-Port modules in the hubs.
500 m
Fiber backbone
Hub A
Hub B
Hub C
Unshielded twisted pair
100 m
75 m
A
Unshielded twisted pair
B
Unshielded twisted pair
Configuration Distance
1. Maximum Diameter:
2. Equivalent Distances: Hub A:
Hub B: Hub C:
Total:
3. Amount of cable between
transceivers:
Total:
4. Remaining Distance:
470 m 305 m 190 m
965 m
1000 m 100 m 500 m 75 m
4200 m
1675 m
1560 m
C
Fiber Backbone
Configuration
Verification
Figure 2-1 Sample Configuration Distance Calculation
To determine if your network configuration is legal:
1 Identify the two transceivers that are the greatest fiber equivalent
distance apart. In Figure 2-1
, 10BASE-T transceivers A and B are the
farthest apart.
2 Set aside 4.2 km (4200 m) because this is the maximum network
diameter for a pure fiber network (Table 2-1
, Rule 3).
Configuring Twisted Pair Backbone, Twisted Pair to-the-Desk 2-7
3 Determine the sum of each hub’s equivalent distance based on the
figures in Table 2-2
. For example, Hub A has an equivalent distance of 470 m. This total represents the sum of the incoming signal to the UTP port (420 m) and the outgoing signal from the fiber port (50 m). Refer to Figure 2-1
for details.
4 Subtract the total equivalent distance of each hub located between
transceivers A and B [inclusive (965 m)] from the maximum network diameter (4200 m). In this case, the subtotal is 3235 m.
5 Determine the total amount of cable between transceivers A and B
(1675 m) and subtract this number from the subtotal determined in step 4 (3235 m).
The remaining distance for legal expansion equals 1560 m.
Configuring Twisted Pair Backbone, Twisted Pair to-the-Desk
Twisted Pair
Backbone
Configuration Rules
For the configuration shown in Figure 2-1
to function properly, the fiber equivalent distance between Transceiver A and Transceiver B must be less than 4200 meters. As a result of the calculation above, 1560 meters remain for expansion.
This section describes:

Twisted Pair Backbone Configuration Rules

Configuration Example of Twisted Pair Backbone, Twisted
Pair-to-the-Desk
When you configure a network with unshielded twisted pair cabling to the desk and twisted pair for the backbone, the following rules apply:
Add a bridge if more than eight 20/40-Port modules are serially
connected. Each bridge creates a subnetwork. Each subnetwork can have its own 4200 meter network diameter.
No more than eight 20/40-Port modules can be in the path between
any two transceivers due to Ethernet's four-repeater rule.
If traffic travels into a port on any repeater-based module and
out the backplane, the module counts as a ½-repeater hop.
If traffic travels into the module through one port and out
another port on the same or a different module, the module counts as 1 full repeater hop.
2-8 DESIGNING AND EXPANDING THE NETWORK
Configuration
Example of Twisted
Pair Backbone,
Twisted
Pair-to-the-Desk
Figure 2-2 illustrates an unshielded twisted pair network using
24-gauge cable.
B
100 m
100 m
Figure 2-2 Unshielded Twisted Pair Network
C
100 m
A
100 m
D
50 m
Although there is no fiber in the configuration illustrated in Figure 2-2, you can calculate the fiber equivalent distance as follows:
1 Total amount of cable between workstations:
100 m + 100 m + 100 m + 100 m + 50 m = 450 m.
2 Total equivalent distance of the 20/40-Port modules:
Each hub has an equivalent distance of (420 m + 165 m) or 585 m Four hubs with a total equivalent distance of (585 m * 4) or 2340 m exist.
3 Total equivalent distance: 450 m + 2340 m = 2790 m.
1
Incoming signal to the UTP port on each hub = 420 m. Outgoing signal from the UTP port on each hub = 165 m. Refer to Table 2-2 more information on LAN product equivalent distances.
Although the unshielded twisted pair network example in Figure 2-2 only uses 20/40-Port modules, it is also possible to use other 10BASE-T modules.
1.
for

Using Patch Panels 2-9

Because the total equivalent distance (2790 m) is less than 4200 meters, Figure 2-2
illustrates a legitimate configuration.
Using Patch Panels Patch panels make cable management easier when used in a
rack-installed hub. However, patch panels weaken signals that pass through them, thereby reducing achievable link distances. 3Com assumes the use of one patch panel in the 100 meter link distance calculations specified in this guide. Each additional patch panel in the link reduces the 100 meter link distance by approximately 10 meters.

Using Module Workgroups

In the example shown in Figure 2-2
, if you use two patch panels between the top right PC and the top right hub, you must shorten the link distance of 100 meters to 90 meters. This is because the maximum allowable link distance on 24-gauge wire (using 10BASE-T signaling with two intervening patch panels) is 100 meters minus approximately 10 meters.
A patch panel installed between the bottom right PC and the bottom left hub does not affect the link because it is only 50 meters away. Patch panels only affect lengths greater than 90 meters.
When you set up a 20/40-Port module as a fully configured workgroup module, you are configuring a logical network that supports up to eight workgroups (isolated networks) per module. Because a managed CoreBuilder 5000 hub may contain as many as 16 CoreBuilder 5000 20-Port modules or eight CoreBuilder 5000 40-Port modules, it is possible to configure your hub with a maximum of 128 workgroups.
This section describes:

Workgroup Definition

Dividing the Network into Workgroups
Workgroup
Definition
Workgroups are individual groups set up to divide your network layout into smaller isolated networks.
2-10 DESIGNING AND EXPANDING THE NETWORK
Workgroups:
Enable administrators to have more flexibility in organizing their
network.
Decrease the amount of traffic on the backplane segments of the
hubs in which the workgroups reside.
By creating module workgroup networks instead of separate backplane segment networks, you can configure a maximum of 128 workgroups per hub using little or no backplane traffic.
Although the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module has access to eight backplane and eight isolated segments, the module only supports per-port switching to eight segments simultaneously.
Dividing the Network
into Workgroups
The following example shows how workgroups help administrators to efficiently organize users in their network.
Workgroup Example
Network administrator Jane Smith plans to reorganize the development and support organizations in her company by dividing each department within those organizations into separate workgroups. Currently, each organization is connected to separate backplane segments (Figure 2-3
Backplane Segment 6 Backplane Segment 5 Backplane Segment 4
Hub C
Engineering
Technical Support
Development Organization
Marketing
Technical Publications
Support Organization
).
Figure 2-3 Typical Corporate Organizational Structure
Using Module Workgroups 2-11
To divide the sample network into workgroups, Smith works as follows:
1 After studying each department’s needs, Smith decides to:
Create separate workgroups for each department within the two
organizations
Connect the workgroups to each other through an internal
bridge
Table 2-3
describes the reorganization of each department.
Table 2-3 Sample Network Reorganization
Module
Ethernet
Department
Engineering Department
Technical Support
Marketing 20-Port 1 WG4 2 to 20 Technical
Publications
2 As Ta b le 2 - 3
Module Type
20-Port 3 WG2 1 to 9
20-Port 6 WG3 1 to 18
20-Port 8 WG1 1 to 7
indicates, Smith assigns four organizations within her
Slot step next
Workgroup step next
company into separate workgroup numbers (WG1 to WG4). The workgroups can share resources and communicate with each other without using the hub backplane. Figure 2-4
illustrates each workgroup
configuration.
Ports Used
2-12 DESIGNING AND EXPANDING THE NETWORK
Hub C
BR
Slot 4
1 2 3 4 5
WG2
6 7 8 9
10
WG4
KEY
WG = Module Workgroup Network (where x is the workgroup number) BR = Internal Bridge
= Port allocated to internal bridge
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Slot 1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Slot 3 Slot 6
WG3
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
WG1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Slot 8
= Workgroup
Figure 2-4 20-Port Module Workgroup Port Allocation
To enable all of the workgroups to communicate with other networks, administrator Smith must connect at least one port per workgroup to the bridge (see Figure 2-4
).
Setting Redundant Links 2-13
By dividing the network into workgroups, Smith:
Increases the available number of backplane resources
Decreases overall backplane traffic

Setting Redundant Links

3 In Figure 2-4
, Smith configures four separate workgroups (WG1 to WG4) and connects the workgroups to each other using an internal bridge module (such as the CoreBuilder 5000 Multiprotocol Switching Module).
The advantages of the configuration in Figure 2-4
Networks configured as module workgroups provide greater
include:
network capacity (8 backplane networks and 128 module workgroup networks)
Network configuration is more flexible because workgroups can
communicate with other networks
Less backplane traffic because communication between each
department is isolated from the hub backplane
If Smith configured each workgroup on separate backplane segment networks instead of separate module workgroup networks, 6 of the hub’s 8 backplane segments would have been isolated from the rest of the network.
When you set up a redundant twisted pair link between ports on CoreBuilder 5000 hubs, you prevent a network failure. Figure 2-5 shows two examples of a redundant configuration.
It is also possible to enable redundancy between ONline modules in a CoreBuilder 5000 hub.
2-14 DESIGNING AND EXPANDING THE NETWORK
CoreBuilder 5000 hub
40-Port
module
Redundancy set up between two ports on the same module
Figure 2-5 Redundant Twisted Pair Configuration
RJ-45
Twisted pair cable
CoreBuilder 5000 hub
20-Port
module
Redundancy set up between two ports on different modules
Setting Redundancy Between Two Ports on One 40-Port Module
To set link redundancy between two ports on one 40-Port module:
1 To connect two links to two ports on the module using the SET PORT
{slot.port} MODE REDUNDANT {slot.port} network management command.
2 Specify the primary link port and the backup link port.
For example, if you set up a redundant link using the following command:
SET PORT 8.5 MODE REDUNDANT 8.7 Port 5 in slot 8 becomes the primary link and port 7 in slot 8 becomes
the backup link.
Setting Redundant Links 2-15
Setting Redundancy Between Ports On Two 20/40-Port Modules
To set link redundancy between one 20-Port and one 40-Port module:
1 To connect two links to two ports between the modules using the SET
PORT {slot.port} MODE REDUNDANT {slot.port} network management command.
2 Specify the primary link port and the backup link port.
For example, if you set up a redundant link using the following command:
SET PORT 12.4 MODE REDUNDANT 8.9 Port 4 in slot 12 becomes the primary link and port 9 in slot 8 becomes
the backup link.
CAUTION: Setting redundancy on the 20/40-Port module is a management module software function. Consequently, a network loop could occur if the module is set to redundant mode and it is powered off and then on without a 3Com distributed management module in the hub.
Once you configure redundancy:
1 A switchover to the backup link occurs under two conditions:
Link failure
Port partition
2 Once the switchover occurs and the backup link becomes operational,
the system performs a switchover back to the primary link automatically once the problem is resolved.
Although you can configure redundancy between two ports on a single module, you should configure redundancy between two ports on two different modules. This provides additional protection if, for example, one of the modules becomes inoperative.
Refer to the CoreBuilder 5000 Distributed Management Module User Guide for more information on setting redundancy between
20/40-Port module ports.
2-16 DESIGNING AND EXPANDING THE NETWORK

Where to Go From Here

Once you complete this chapter, go to Chapter 3. Chapter 3, Installing and Operating the Module, describes installation procedures and explains how to set the DIP switches, configure the module through network management, and monitor the front panel using the LEDs.
INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE
3
MODULE
This chapter describes the installation of the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module.
A module reference card for the 20-Port module (Document Number 17-00542) or a 40-Port module (Document Number 17-00523) lists the DIP switch settings, 20/40-Port module management commands, LED indicators, and other module information. Store the card in the CoreBuilder 5000 reference binder in the Reference Card area.
This chapter contains the following topics:
Precautionary Procedures
Unpacking Procedures
Quick Installation
Setting DIP Switches
Installing the Module
Configuring the Module
Showing Module Configurations
Attaching the Network Monitor Card
Gathering Statistics
Monitoring the Front Panel
Verifying LEDs and the Network
Read the precautionary procedures before unpacking the module.
3-2 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE

Precautionary Procedures

Unpacking Procedures

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage static-sensitive devices on circuit boards. Follow these precautions when you handle the 20/40-Port module.
CAUTION: Do not remove the board from its antistatic shielding bag until you are ready to inspect or install it.
CAUTION: Handle the board by the faceplate only.
Use one of the following proper grounding techniques when you install the 20/40-Port module:
Use a foot strap and grounded mat or wear a grounded static
discharge wrist strap
Touch the grounded rack or other source of ground just before you
handle the module
To unpack the 20/40-Port module:
1 Verify that the 20-Port module (Model Number 6120M-TPP) is the
model you ordered by checking the Model Number listed on the side of the shipping carton. Repeat this step for the 40-Port module (Model Number 6140M-TPP).
Note that the product model number printed on the shipping box differs from the model number on the product. The model number on the shipping box contains the prefix ’3C9’.
2 Remove the 20/40-Port module, in its antistatic bag, from the shipping
carton.
3 Remove the module from the antistatic shielding bag and inspect it for
damage. Always handle the 20/40-Port module by the faceplate, being careful
not to touch the components. If the module appears to be damaged, return it to the antistatic shielding bag, repack it in the shipping carton, and contact your local supplier.
Keep the shipping carton and antistatic shielding bag in which your module was shipped for future storage or shipment.

Quick Installation 3-3

Record the serial number of your 20/40-Port module. The Hub Planning Chart, located in the CoreBuilder 5000 reference binder, and the module Planning Chart supplied with your module, are provided for this purpose.
Quick Installation Table 3-1 outlines the steps for the installation of your module. If you
are familiar with installing CoreBuilder 5000 modules, use this table as a checklist. Otherwise, consult the remainder of this chapter.
Table 3-1 Quick Installation Checklist
Step Procedure Chapter/Section 1 Verify that your network complies with the
basic rules for network design.
2 Unpack the module. Chapter 3, Unpacking
3 Configure the DIP switch settings. If you
have a network management module installed in the hub, configure the module using the management commands described later in this chapter.
4 Enter the SHOW POWER1 command at the
5 Insert a 20-Port module into one open slot
6 Establish connections from the 20/40-Port
7 Verify LED status for normal operation. Chapter 3, Verifying LEDs
1
Refer to the CoreBuilder 5000 Integrated System Hub Installation and Operation Guide for
command line of the terminal. This command displays current power requirements for the hub.
or insert a 40-Port module into two adjacent slots in the hub. Fasten the ejectors and tighten the faceplate screws.
module to devices using the appropriate connectors and cabling.
details on hub power requirements.
Chapter 2, Designing and
Expanding the Network
Procedures
Chapter 3, Setting DIP
Switches or Configuring the Module
Chapter 3, Installing the
Module
Chapter 3, Installing the
Module
Chapter 3, Installing the
Module
and the Network
For information about potential problems, consult the troubleshooting techniques in Chapter 4
.
3-4 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE

Setting DIP Switches

If you are using a management module and do not plan to use the DIP configuration command, skip this section and proceed to Installing the
Module on page 3-7.
The CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module has an 8-position DIP switch.

Using DIP Switches Use the DIP switch to:

Select a network for all ports on the 20-Port module or 40-Port
module
Configure all 20 or 40 ports of the module into one workgroup or
module segment
Choose the primary module configuration:
Non-volatile RAM configuration (software configuration)
DIP segment selection (DIP-specified module configuration)
You cannot assign ports to different networks using the DIP switches on the 20/40-Port module. You must use network management commands.
Use network management commands, rather than the DIP switches, to configure the module. All of the DIP switch settings on the 20/40-Port module are ignored if an appropriate CoreBuilder 5000 Distributed Management Module (DMM Version v2.0 or later, for example) is already installed in the hub.
Setting the DIP
Switches
To set the module to access the DIP switch settings when using a management module, issue the SET DEVI CE DIP_CONFIGURATION command from the management module.
If you do not have a CoreBuilder 5000 Distributed Management Module installed in your hub, your hub configuration defaults to the DIP switch settings on the module.
Setting DIP Switches 3-5
Figure 3-1 shows the DIP switch locations on the module.
12345678
DIP switches
Off
12345678
0 1
On
Setting s
CH SEL 0
CH SEL 1
CH SEL 2
ISOLATE
NVRAM
NOT USED
NOT USED
NOT USED
Backplane DIN connector
Figure 3-1 20/40-Port Module and DIP Switch Location

DIP Switch Definition Table 3-2 briefly describes the DIP switch settings. Each DIP switch

function is defined in Configuring the Module
Table 3-2
Switches 1 through 4 enable you to configure all ports for one of
lists DIP Switches 1 through 4.
on page 3-10.
the backplane segments (Ethernet 1 to Ethernet 8) or as a workgroup (Isolate_1).
DIP Switch 5 enables you to switch between Non-volatile RAM
(NVRAM) or DIP-switch controlled configuration.
Switches 6, 7, and 8 are not used.
3-6 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
Table 3-2 Channel Select DIP Switch Settings
Network Selection
1 (default) Off Off Off Off 2 Off Off Off On 3 Off Off On Off 4 Off Off On On 5 Off On Off Off 6 Off On Off On 7 Off On On Off 8 Off On On On Isolate_1 On x x x
1
By default, Switch 5 is set to NVRAM. When enabled, settings stored in NVRAM take
precedence over DIP Switch settings 4 through 1.
The DIP switch legend on the module refers to the backplane connection as the channel selection (CH SEL). The channel setting and the network setting are the same. Ports set to the same network communicate with each other. If the switch labeled ISOLATE is ON, it sets the module to Isolated_1.
Switch Settings
Switch 4 Switch 3 Switch 2 Switch 1
1
When the 20/40-Port module is first installed, the hub checks for configuration settings in the DMM.
If:
The hub is unmanaged, then the 20/40-Port module checks for configuration settings stored in NVRAM
There are no configuration settings in NVRAM or DIP Switch 5 is set to DIP-switch controlled configuration, the 20/40-Port module checks the DIP switches for configuration information
Installing the Module 3-7

Installing the Module

You do not need to power off the CoreBuilder 5000 hub to install or remove the 20/40-Port module. You can insert the module while the hub is operating (this is called a hot swap).
To install the 20/40-Port module:
1 Use one of the following proper grounding techniques when you install
the 20/40-Port module:
Properly ground yourself prior to handling the 20/40-Port
module.
Attach a static wrist guard to yourself or touch a grounded static
mat prior to handling the 20/40-Port module.
2 Configure the 20/40-Port module:
If you plan to install the 20/40-Port module in a managed hub
(for example, DMM Version v2.0 or later), go to step 3 to complete the installation. To configure the appropriate settings, go to Configuring the Module
If you plan to insert the 20/40-Port module in an unmanaged
on page 3-10.
hub, configure the DIP switch settings on the module to the desired settings (see Setting DIP Switches
on page 3-4 and go to
step 4.
3 To determine if the hub has enough power for the new module, from
the DMM command line, enter the SHOW POWER BUDGET command. Refer to Appendix A, Electrical Specifications
, for detail on power
requirements for each of the specified watts ranges. Refer to the Distributed Management Module Commands Guide for
information on the SHOW POWER BUDGET command.
4 Locate an open slot in the hub. You need:
One slot for the 20-Port module
Two slots for the 40-Port module
Remove the appropriate number of blank panels on the hub to expose a slot for the module.
5 Insert the module into the board guides at the top and bottom of the
slot and slide it into the hub by pressing firmly at the top and bottom of the faceplate. Figure 3-2
shows the installation of the module.
3-8 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
Figure 3-2 Installing a CoreBuilder 5000 Module
Installing the Module 3-9
6 Close the 20/40-Port module ejectors (Figure 3-3).
Open ed
Figure 3-3 Opened and Closed Module Ejectors
Clos ed
7 Fasten the spring-loaded screws on the front of the 20/40-Port module
faceplate to the hub using your fingers (do not overtighten).
8 Attach a twisted pair cable to the RJ-45 connectors on the front of the
module (Figure 3-4
).
3-10 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
CoreBuilder 5000 hub
TRAFFIC STA
MOD STA
1
4
7
10
13
16
19
1X
2X
2X
3X
10X
11X
12X
13X
14X
15X
18X
19X
20X
4X
5X
6X
7X
8X
9X
16X
17X
3X
4X
5X
6X
7X
8X
9X
10X
11X
12X
13X
14X
15X
16X
17X
18X
19X
10BASE-T E20PS-TP
RJ-45 connector
20X
2X
2X
2X
3X
3X
3X
4X
4X
4X
5X
5X
5X
6X
6X
6X
7X
7X
7X
8X
8X
8X
9X
9X
9X
10X
10X
10X
11X
11X
11X
12X
12X
12X
13X
13X
13X
14X
14X
14X
15X
15X
15X
16X
16X
16X
17X
17X
17X
18X
18X
18X
19X
19X
19X
20X
20X
20X

Configuring the Module

Figure 3-4 20-Port Module Cable Connection
This section describes how to configure the module using network management commands.
The CoreBuilder 5000 Distributed Management Module (DMM) provides network management for the CoreBuilder 5000 hub and its modules. Use network management commands, rather than the DIP switches, to configure the module. All of the DIP switch settings on the 20/40-Port module are ignored if an appropriate CoreBuilder 5000 Distributed Management Module (DMM Version v2.0 or later) is already installed in the hub.
Configuring the Module 3-11
Do not manage (get statistics or configure) this module from a slave management module.
If network management is present when you first install the module, the network defaults to isolated mode and the ports are automatically disabled (so that users cannot join the network undetected by network management). Therefore, you must enable the ports you wish to use and set the module ports to the appropriate network using management commands.
Use network management commands to configure the following 20/40-Port module features:

Enable/Disable/ Shutdown Ports

Set Port Redundancy
Set Remote Diagnostics
Enable/Disable Link Integrity
Set Alert Filter
Enable/Disable/
Shutdown Ports
Set Auto Polarity
Set Port Squelch
Network Selection
For additional information on network management commands refer to the CoreBuilder 5000 Distributed Management Module Commands
Guide.
This command allows you to enable, disable, and shutdown each port on the 20/40-Port module.
When a port is set to:
Enable – It transmits to and receives data from the network to
which the port is assigned.
Disable – It does not transmit or receive data. (Link Integrity is
unaffected.)
Shutdown – It turns off link integrity and the transmitter. The port
responds with status OFF at the terminal.
3-12 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
Use the following command to enable, disable, or shutdown a port:
SET PORT {
slot .por t
{
slot
} MODE {disa ble}
.all} {enab le}
{shutdown}

Set Port Redundancy This command allows you to set redundancy between ports. When

you set two ports redundant to each other, the secondary port takes over if the primary port fails.
Use the following command to set redundancy between ports:
SET PORT {
slot.port
} MODE {redundant} {
{non -red un dant }
slot.p or t
}
Refer to the section in Chapter 2, Setting Redundant Links, for an example of port redundancy.
Set Remote
Diagnostics
On the 20/40-Port module, a port you configure for Remote Diagnostics will only transmit Link Integrity if it receives Link Integrity. This allows the 20/40-Port module’s Remote Diagnostic feature to be used in a redundant configuration to provide even more fault tolerance (Figure 3-5
).
ONline or CoreBuilder 5000 hub
Primary
port
Backup
port
transmit
receive
transmit
receive
CoreBuilder 5000 hub
receive
transmit
receive
transmit
Diagnostic
20/40-Port
Remote
Remote
Diagnostic 20/40-Port
Figure 3-5 Remote Diagnostics Example
For example, if the primary port’s transmit link fails, the remote diagnostic port on the 20/40-Port module will stop transmitting Link Integrity. The primary port will then sense the link failure and switch over to the backup port.
Configuring the Module 3-13
Use the following command to set remote diagnostics:
Enable/Disable Link
Integrity
SET PORT {
slot.port
} MODE {REMOTE_DIAGNOSTICS} {
{NON _REM OT E_DI AGN OSTI CS }
slot.port
}
The last variable, slot.port, in the command above is optional. When Remote Diagnostic mode is enabled, it is referred to as a buddy port.
This command allows you to enable or disable Link Integrity for all ports on the 20/40-Port module in networks that comply with the 10BASE-T standard.
You should:
Disable Link Integrity only when connecting to older equipment
that does not comply with the 10BASE-T standard.
Enable Link Integrity for all ports on your 10BASE-T module. You
must enable link integrity at one end of the connection.
Use the following command to enable or disable link integrity for each port on the module:
SET PORT {
slot.port
{
slot.
all} {disabl e}
} LINK_INTE GRIT Y {enable }

Set Alert Filter This command allows you to override the PORT FILTER feature on a

port-by-port basis. The Port Filter feature enables or disables the DMM delivery of port up and port down traps. You can use this command to continue to monitor port status on crucial ports (file servers, for example), while alerts from other ports are disabled.
Configure Set Alert Filter to:
Enable – To use the Port Alert filtering feature.
Disable – To cause all port up and port down alerts to display.
Use the following command to enable or disable the port up and port down alerts for a port:
SET PORT {
slot .por t
{
slot.
all} {ena ble}
} ALERT_FI LT ER {disa ble}
3-14 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
The following output is an example of the SET PORT ALERT_FILTER command issued for port 1 of a module in slot 1:
CB5000> set port 1.1 a lert_filter disable [ ENTER] Port 01 .01 Alert Filter set to DISABLE.
The SET ALERT PORT_UP_DOWN FILTER command should be set before you use SET ALERT FILTER command.
For more information on this command, refer to the Distributed Management Module Commands Guide.

Set Auto Polarity This command enables the 20/40-Port module to automatically switch

the polarity of twisted pair cabling. If, for instance, you erroneously reverse the polarity of some twisted pair cabling while assembling it, Auto Polarity enables you to automatically detect this problem and reverse the polarity.
Use the following command to enable Auto Polarity for a port:
SET PORT {
slot.port
{
slot.
all} {enable}
} AUTO_POLARITY {disable}

Set Port Squelch This command allows you to establish the squelch level as either

normal (high) or low (sensitive) for ports on Ethernet 10BASE-T modules. The squelch level is factory set to ''normal'' to conform to the 10BASE-T standard.
There are two Squelch settings:
Low setting – Allows ports to receive weaker signals, allowing
longer distances. Increases the achievable link distance (with the added risk of losing packets to impulse noise).
Normal setting – Allows ports to receive signals compliant with the
10BASE-T standard.
Use the following command to set Squelch Mode for a port:
SET PORT {
slot.port
{
slot.
all} {low}
} SQUELCH {normal}
Configuring the Module 3-15

Network Selection This command provides port-level configuration flexibility using the

CoreBuilder 5000 hub's unique architecture. You can assign ports collectively or individually, to any of 8 backplane segments or any of the 8 isolated segments. Supports up to 8 segments simultaneously, in any combination. Refer to the CoreBuilder 5000 Integrated System Hub Installation and Operation Guide, Chapter 1, for a complete discussion of the CoreBuilder 5000 hub architecture.
The DIP switch settings on the module refer to the backplane connection as the “channel” selection (CH SEL). The channel setting and the network setting are the same.
Assigning Ports On the Module to a Network
Use the DIP switch settings on the 20/40-Port module to assign all ports (collectively) on the module to network 1 through 8 or to an extended segment. Network management, however, lets you assign one or more ports to a network.
Use the following command to assign a port to a network:
SET PORT {
slot.port
{
slot.
all} {isolated_1..._8}
} NETWORK {ethernet_1..._8}
Use this command to assign users to backplane segments or isolated segments (workgroups). For instance, to create a module segment workgroup, you must assign all of the users in the workgroup to one isolated network (for example, ISOLATED_1).
For more information on workgroups, refer to the section in Chapter 2, ''Module Workgroups''.
Assigning a Monitor Card to a Network
If you have a CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet Network Monitor Card or Private Line Card installed on this module, network management also enables you to assign the monitor card to a network. The CoreBuilder 5000 20/40-Port Module supports up to 2 daughter cards. You can assign the daughter cards to any of the 8 backplane segments, whether or not any of the ports are assigned to that segment. You can also assign daughter cards to an isolated segment.
3-16 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
Use the following command to assign a monitor card to a network:

Showing Module Configurations

Show Module
Command
SET MODULE {
slot.subslot
} NETW ORK {ethe rn et_1. .. _8}
{isola te d_1. .. _8}
The CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet Network Monitor Card is configured as subslot 2 or 3 on the 20/40-Port module. The default, subslot 1, refers to the 20/40-Port module.
You cannot attach an Ethernet Private Line Card to an isolated network.
You can display status information about the 20/40-Port module using the following network management commands:
SHOW MODULE
SHOW MODULE VERBOSE
SHOW PORT
SHOW PORT VERBOSE
This command enables you to display both brief and verbose information about a particular module.
Use the following command to display module information:
SHOW MODULE {
slot.subslot
{
slot.
all} {no_ve rb ose}
} {ve rbos e}
The following output is an example of the SHOW MODULE VERBOSE command issued for a 20-Port module installed in slot 10:
CB5000> sho w module 10 .1 verbos e [ENTER]
Slot Module Version N etwork G eneral Inf ormation
----- - --------- - ------- -- --------- ----- --------- --------
10.01 6 120M-TPP 1.00 PER_PO RT
6120M- TPP: CB500 0 Ethernet 2 0-Port 10 BASE-T Modul e
Boot Ve rsion: 1.00 Non-Volatil e DIP Sett ing: EN ABLED
Showing Module Configurations 3-17

Show Port Command This command enables users to display brief and verbose information

on both individual ports and all ports collectively.
Use the following syntax to display port information:
SHOW PORT {
slot.port
{
slot.
all} {no_v erbos e}
} {ve rbos e}
The following output is an example of the SHOW PORT ALL VERBOSE command issued for a 20-Port module installed in slot 4 (only the output for ports 1, 2, and 3 are shown):
CB5000> sho w port 4.al l verbose [ENTER]
Port Di splay for Module 6120M -TPP :
Port Mode Status Network General Information
----- ----- ------- ------- -------------------
04.01 E NABLED OK AY ETHERNET_2
Port Al ert Filter : ENABLED Port Co nnector: RJ-45 Networ k Dip Setti ng: ETHERNE T_1 Link In tegrity: ENABLED Auto Po larity: ENABLED
04.02 E NABLED OK AY ET HERNET_2
Port Al ert Filter : ENABLED Port Co nnector: RJ-45 Networ k Dip Setti ng: ETHERNE T_1 Link In tegrity: ENABLED Auto Po larity: DISABLE D
04.03 E NABLED OK AY ET HERNET_5
Port Al ert Filter : ENABLED Port Co nnector: RJ-45 Networ k Dip Setti ng: ETHERNE T_1 Link In tegrity: ENABLED Auto Po larity: ENABLED
3-18 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE

Attaching the Network Monitor Card

To monitor Ethernet and RMON statistics on your 20/40-Port module, you must attach the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet Network Monitor Card (ENMC) to the network you wish to monitor. The ENMC enables you to individually select and monitor each backplane segment of your CoreBuilder 5000 hub.
Figure 3-6
provides a component side view of the 20/40-Port module with the network monitor card orientation on the module. For details on the installation, refer to the documentation that accompanies the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet Network Monitor Card.
Screws
Standoffs
Monitor card
NMC connector
Figure 3-6 Attaching the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet Monitor Card

Gathering Statistics 3-19

Gathering Statistics This section describes the following capabilities of the 20/40-Port
module:

Gathering Statistics

Monitoring the Network

Gathering Statistics The 20/40-Port module gathers repeater statistics without the use of a
network monitor card. These repeater statistics include:
Network
Module
Port
The 20/40-Port module gathers repeater statistics for each port (for example, collision, partition, late collision, data rate mismatch, and short event statistics).
Unlike repeater statistics, Ethernet and RMON statistics are only available when a Network Monitor Card is defined.
Monitoring the
Network
It is possible to install the monitor card on either the 20/40-Port module or the Distributed Management Module for Ethernet (DMM-EC). For more information on the DMM, refer to the Distributed
Management Module User Guide.
The CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet Network Monitor Card does not provide per-port statistics for ONline modules when it is installed on the 20/40-Port module. If, however, the card is installed on the DMM, it is possible to collect per-port statistics for ONline modules.
The 20/40-Port module supports two daughter cards. You may assign these cards to any of the eight networks (isolated or non-isolated segments). The ability to support two cards provides greater flexibility in both workgroup creation and module configuration.
Once the monitor card is attached to the 20/40-Port module, you may monitor the network using the following commands:
Monitor
Show Counter
3-20 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
Monitor Command
This command enables you to monitor each network (individually) by specifying the backplane segment, isolated or non-isolated, to which your ports are configured.
Use the following command to monitor a network:
MONI TOR {mm:s s} { ETH ERNE T} {eth er net_1 .. ._ 8}
The system-specified range of time allotted for monitoring the network is 00 to 30 (minutes) and 05 to 59 (seconds). Use these ranges when specifying a length of time to monitor your network.
The following output is an example of the MONITOR ETHERNET command for a 20/40-Port module assigned to network Ethernet_1. This example monitors ethernet_1 every 10 seconds.
{isola ted _1 ..._ 8} {REPEA TER } {RMO N}
CB5000 > monitor 0 0:10 ethernet et hernet_1 [ENTER]
Ethernet Statistics for ETHERNET_1
-----------------------------------------------------------­ Cumulative Last Time Interval
----------------------------------------------------------­FCS Err ors 0 0 SQE Test Errors 0 0 Alignm ent Errors 0 0 Carrie r Sense Errors 0 0 Frame Too Lo ng 0 0 Deferred Transmissions 0 0 Late Co llisions 0 0 Excess ive Collis ions 0 0 Single Coll ision Fram es 0 0 Multip le Collisi on Frames 0 0 Intern al MAC Receive Err ors 0 0 Intern al MAC Tran smit Errors 0 0
Display wil l refresh e very 10 seconds. Press C TRL-C to exit.
Gathering Statistics 3-21
Show Counter Command
This command provides you with detailed information on Ethernet and RMON statistics. The Ethernet and RMON statistics-gathering requires a network monitor card.
Use the following command to gather Ethernet and RMON statistics:
SHOW COUNTER {ETHERNET} {ethernet_1..._8}
{RMO N}
Use the following command to view statistics on an isolated network:
SHOW COUNTE R {REPEATE R} {isolated_x} {m odule}
Use the following command to show network, module, and port-level repeater statistics:
SHOW COUNTE R {RE PEAT ER} {e ther net_ 1... _8}
{isola ted_ 1... _8} SHOW COUNTE R {RE PEAT ER} { SHOW COUNTE R {RE PEAT ER} {
module port
}{
}{
slot slot .port
}
}
Both the Monitor and Show Counter commands provide information for ongoing network statistics. The Monitor command displays network statistics periodically at the time interval you specify in the command. The Show Counter command enables you to display all statistics, at one time, since the last clear counter command.
The following example illustrates RMON statistics:
CB5000 > show coun ter rmon hos ts ethern et_1 [ENTER]
RMON Ho sts Table for Host Addr ess 08-00 -19-A4-B3 on Port 5.12
------ --------- -------- -------------------- -------- --------- ­Receiv ed Packets 24000 Receiv ed Octets 285000 Transm itted Pack ets 1200 Transmitted Octets 75000 Transmitted Errors 124 Transmitted Broadcas t Packets 150 Transmitted Multicas t Packets 280
3-22 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
For more information on Ethernet, RMON, and repeater statistics, refer to the CoreBuilder 5000 Distributed Management Module Commands Guide.

Monitoring the Front Panel

Use the LEDs on the front panel of the 20/40-Port module to monitor the status of each port. The 20/40-Port module has one Module Status LED and 20 or 40 port activity and status LEDs.

Module Status LED A single LED located at the top left of the faceplate indicates the status

of the module (see Figure 3-7).
Port Status and
Activity LEDs
The 20/40-Port module has one bi-color LED for each port. This LED is capable of displaying the following two colors:
Green – Displays port status information
Yellow – Displays port traffic information
The LEDs are triple-stacked to maximize the capacity of port connections on the front panel.
Figure 3-7
of a port as described in Table 3-3
shows the location of the LEDs. Each LED indicates the state
.
Monitoring the Front Panel 3-23
TRAFFIC STATUS
MODULE
STATUS
1
21
4
24
7
27
10
30
13
33
16
36
19
39
21X
1X
2X
2X
22X
23X
3X
3X
24X
4X
4X
25X
5X
5X
26X
6X
6X
27X
7X
7X
28X
8X
8X
29X
9X
9X
30X
10X
10X
31X
11X
11X
12X
12X
32X
13X
33X
13X
34X
14X
14X
35X
15X
15X
16X
16X
36X
17X
17X
37X
38X
18X
18X
39X
19X
19X
40X
20X
20X
1X
2X
3X
4X
5X
6X
7X
8X
9X
10X
11X
12X
13X
14X
15X
16X
17X
18X
19X
20X
1
4
7
10
13
16
19
10BASE-T E20PS-TP
TRAFFIC STA
MOD STA
Module Status LED
2X
3X
4X
5X
6X
7X
8X
9X
10X
11X
12X
13X
14X
15X
16X
17X
18X
19X
20X
Bi-Color Port Status/Activity LEDs
Figure 3-7 20-Port and 40-Port Module Faceplate
3-24 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
Table 3-3 20/40-Port Module LED Interpretations
LED Name Color State Indicates
Module Status green Off No power to hub or insufficient
Port Activity/Status
(Ports 1 to 20) (Ports 21 to 40)
power in the hub to support this module.
Software download to the 20/40-Port module in progress.
Blinking One of the daughter cards failed
module diagnostics.
On Module OK.
green On Port enabled and link OK or Link
Integrity disabled. 1 blink Link failure on the port. 2 blinks Port partitioned. Off Port disabled.
yellow Off No packets are received on the ports.
On Constant traffic activity on port.
Software download to the 20/40-Port
module in progress. Blinking Normal activity on the port.

Verifying LEDs and the Network

This section describes LED and Network verification for the 20/40-Port module, including:
Using the CoreBuilder 5000 Controller Module to Verify Bi-Color
LED Operation
Using the DMM to Verify Network Connections
For more information on the DMM, refer to the Distributed Management Module User Guide.
Verifying LEDs and the Network 3-25
Using the
CoreBuilder 5000
Controller Module
to Verify Bi-Color LED
Operation
Using the DMM to
Verify Network
Connections
The 3Com CoreBuilder 5000 hub's controller module is equipped with a LED Test button on the front panel. Use this button to verify LED operation.
When you press the LED test button:
1 The module initiates a test to all modules in the hub. All LEDs should
respond by lighting continuously for approximately 5 seconds.
2 During this time period, the LEDs should alternate between green and
yellow about every ½ second. Any LED that does not light is defective. The LED test does not disrupt network operation.
During a software download to the 20/40-Port module, the Module Status LED, on the module, is off and all of the other port LEDs are illuminated solid yellow until the download process is complete.
The Distributed Management Module enables you to verify each network connection (both active and isolated) for all CoreBuilder 5000 modules and monitor cards installed in your hub.
To initiate the verification process:
1 Press the Display Control Toggle button on the front of the DMM. 2 Observe the DMM sequentially cycle through each network connection
(Ethernet 1-8 or Isolated 1-8).
3 Each status port LED associated with the network indicated on the
DMM LED matrix display illuminates.
4 If you have an Ethernet Network Monitor Card assigned to a network
on a module, the Module Status LED lights to indicate the network to which it is assigned.
The following example illustrates the verification process.
3-26 INSTALLING AND OPERATING THE MODULE
Verifying Network
Connections for
the 20/40-Port
Module

Where to Go From Here

Network Administrator Jim Johnson must verify network connections for a newly installed 20-Port module. Currently, Johnson has one 20-Port module connected to Ethernet Networks 1 and 3 (E1 and E3).
To verify this configuration:
1 Johnson presses the Display Control Toggle button located on the front
of the DMM.
2 Once initiated, the DMM cycles through each network connection (E1
and E3) and performs the following: a Displays the current network under examination (as shown on the
DMM LCD display).
b Lights the status LEDs associated with the current network.
3 Because Johnson’s 20-Port module is connected only to E1 and E3, the
network verification only lights the status LEDs associated with those networks. Conversely, if Johnson had configured the 20-Port module with connections to all eight backplane networks, the network verification process would cycle through all eight networks.
Chapter 4 provides information on troubleshooting and technical
assistance. If you have problems installing your 20/40-Port module, you should refer to Chapter 4 prior to contacting customer support.
4

TROUBLESHOOTING

This chapter describes troubleshooting procedures for the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port Module. Information on troubleshooting may assist you in verifying the module operation.
This chapter is divided into the following sections:
Troubleshooting Using the Module Status LED
Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs
Technical Assistance
Where to Go From Here
4-2 TROUBLESHOOTING

Troubleshooting Using the Module Status LED

In certain situations, the module status LED may not light. Table 4-1 outlines possible causes and some solutions for troubleshooting the Module Status LED.
Table 4-1 Module Status LED Troubleshooting
LED State
Off No power to hub Check the controller module power
Blinks One of the daughter cards
Possible Cause Corrective Action
LEDs.
The hub does not have enough available power for a new module installation
The 20/40-Port module is faulty
failed, did not boot up, or failed module diagnostics
Add another power supply to the hub. Use the SHOW POWER BUDGET
management command to ascertain available power in the hub. See the
CoreBuilder 5000 Distributed Management Module Commands Guide for details.
Try a different 20/40-Port module.
Replace the failed daughter card.
Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs 4-3

Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs

A blinking Port Status indicator signals a problem with a port or a link connected to a port. Once a port detects a problem, you can further analyze the problem by counting the number of blinks. Ta b le 4-2 outlines possible causes and some solutions for troubleshooting the Port Status LED.
Table 4-2 Port Status LED Troubleshooting
LED State Indication Possible Cause Corrective Action
1 Blink Link Failure Cables not connected Connect cables.
2 Blinks Port
Partitioned
Off Ports
Disabled
Cables broken Check cables with cable
Link Integrity mismatch Make sure that both ends of
Faulty cable Check cable with cable
Looped network Check network wiring
Ports disabled Enable ports. 20/40-Port module
not powered Broken LED. Bad 20/ 40-Port
module.
tester. Repair or replace cables.
the connection have the same Link Integrity setting.
tester. Repair or replace cable.
topology and remove any loops that have been created.
Check the controller module Power LEDs.
Press the LED test on the controller module.
Replace module.
4-4 TROUBLESHOOTING

Technical Assistance

Where to Go From Here

You can receive assistance for installing and troubleshooting the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module by calling either your 3Com reseller or 3Com Technical Support. Be prepared to supply a representative with the following information:
Description of the problem
Steps you have taken to try and correct the problem
Type and software version of the management module being used
Version of software installed on your CoreBuilder 5000 hub
Status of the front panel LEDs
Configuration of your concentrator (you may find it helpful to refer
to the Slot Usage Chart in Appendix B of the ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation Guide for a record of this
information)
Refer to Appendix B
for instructions how to contact Technical Support
for your product.
If you complete this chapter and are still unable to resolve a particular problem with your CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module, contact 3Com Customer Support and provide them with the specific nature of your problem. Refer to Appendix B
for instructions on
contacting Technical Support for your product.
A

Electrical Specifications

SPECIFICATIONS

This appendix lists specifications for the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20/40-Port 10BASE-T Module, including:
Electrical Specifications
Environmental Specifications
Mechanical Specifications
General Specifications
Twisted Pair Connectors and Cables
The information listed in this appendix applies to both the 20-Port module and the 40-Port module, except where noted.
Backplane Interface Two 96-pin edge connectors, compatible with the
3Com CoreBuilder 5000 hub
Power Requirements 20-Port:
+2 V = 0 watts +5 V = 15 watts
-5 V = 1 watt +12 V = .5 watts
-12 V = 0 watts 40-Port: +2 V = 0 watts +5 V = 25 watts
-5 V = 1 watt +12 V = .5 watts
-12 V = 0 watts
A-2 SPECIFICATIONS

Environmental Specifications

Mechanical Specifications

General Specifications

Operating Temperature 0° to 50° C (32° to 122° F) Storage Temperature -30° to 65° C (-22° to 149° F) Humidity Less than 95%, non-condensing BTU/hr 61
Dimensions 20-Port:
1.0" W x 10.275" L x 14.37" H 40-Port:
2.0" W x 10.275" L x 14.37" H
Weight 20-Port:
2.5 lbs 40-Port:
3.09 lbs
Data rate 10 Mbps (million bits per second) Data modulation Manchester Diagnostic modulation Link Integrity pulse Collision detection 100% deterministic Port partitioning After 63 consecutive collisions Maximum number of nodes 1024 Configuration rule Supports IEEE 802.3 controllers and IEEE 802.3
repeaters
Ethernet interface Twenty or forty RJ-45 connectors with crossover
(MDI-X) wiring Number of ports 20 or 40 Cabling Compatible with the 10BASE-T Standard Host interface 3Com CoreBuilder 5000 hub bus interface standard Installation attachment Two or four thumbscrews on the faceplate
Twisted Pair Connectors and Cables A-3

Twisted Pair Connectors and Cables

Twisted Pair
Connectors
Use the information in this section to ensure that the cables and connecting hardware meet requirements. There are many types of cables and connectors that you can use to link your 20/40-Port module to your network. For proper operation, use only approved cables when you install all equipment.
This section is divided into the following parts:

Twisted Pair Connectors

Twisted Pair Cables
The IEEE 802.3 10BASE-T standard for RJ-45 pinouts is described below. 10BASE-T uses 2 of the 4 pairs of wire: pins 1 & 2 and pins 3 & 6. If you do not configure the pairs this way, the connection does not work properly.
Level 3 or higher cable has the following pin pairings:
pins 4 and 5 are pair 1
pins 3 and 6 are pair 2
pins 1 and 2 are pair 3
pins 7 and 8 are pair 4
Refer to Electrical Specifications
on page A-1 for an example of the recommended TIA-568A standard pinouts for this connector and the cable.
A-4 SPECIFICATIONS
RX Pair 2
TX Pair 3
1 +
W-G G
3
2
_
+
W-O BL
connector pinouts
Pair 1
4
5
W-BL O W-BR BR
RJ-45 transceiver
Pair 4
6
_
8
7
Figure A-1 RJ-45 Connector Pinouts

Twisted Pair Cables The twisted pair cables used in your configuration must meet the

following qualifications:
Level 3 or higher
22 or 24 gauge twisted pair cable
85 to 115 ohm impedance
Minimum of 2 pairs
A pair is usually a solid color wire twisted with a striped wire of the same color.
Connecting Twisted Pair Cables
Connect cables first at the active hub location. Refer to the
CoreBuilder 5000 Integrated System Hub Installation and Operation Guide for more information about CoreBuilder 5000 hub connections.
B

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

3Com provides access to technical support information through a variety of services. This appendix describes these services.
Information contained in this appendix is correct at time of publication. For the very latest, access 3Com Corporation’s World Wide Web site as described below.
This appendix describes:
Online Technical Services
Support From Your Network Supplier
Support From 3Com Corporation
Returning Products for Repair
Accessing the 3Com MIB

Online Technical Services

Contacting 3Com Technical Publications
3Com offers worldwide product support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, through the following online systems:
World Wide Web Site
3Com Bulletin Board Service
3ComFacts Automated Fax Service
3ComForum on CompuServe Online Service
B-2 TECHNICAL SUPPORT

World Wide Web Site Access the latest networking information on 3Com Corporation’s World

Wide Web site by entering our URL into your Internet browser:
http ://ww w. 3Com .c om/
This service features news and information about 3Com products, customer service and support, 3Com Corporation’s latest news releases, NetAge Magazine, and more.
3Com Bulletin Board
Service
3ComBBS contains patches, software, and drivers for all 3Com products, as well as technical articles. This service is available through modem or ISDN 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Access by Analog Modem
To reach the service by modem, set your modem to 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit. Call the telephone number nearest you:
Country Data Rate Telephone Number
Australia up to 14400 bps 61 2 9955 2073 Brazil up to 14400 bps 55 11 547 9666 France up to 14400 bps 33 1 6986 6954 Germany up to 28800 bps 4989 62732 188 Hong Kong up to 14400 bps 852 2537 5608 Italy (fee required) up to 14400 bps 39 2 27300680 Japan up to 14400 bps 81 3 3345 7266 Mexico up to 28800 bps 52 5 520 7853 P. R. of China up to 14400 bps 86 10 684 92351 Singapore up to 14400 bps 65 534 5693 Taiwan up to 14400 bps 886 2 377 5840 U.K. up to 28800 bps 44 1442 438278 U.S.A. up to 28800 bps 1 408 980 8204
Access by Digital Modem
ISDN users can call 3ComBBS using a digital modem for fast access up to 56 Kbps. To access 3ComBBS using ISDN, use the following number:
408 654 2703
Online Technical Services B-3
3ComFacts
Automated Fax
Service
3Com Corporation’s interactive fax service, 3ComFacts
SM
, provides data sheets, technical articles, diagrams, and troubleshooting instructions on 3Com products 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call 3ComFacts using your Touch-Tone telephone using one of these international access numbers:
Country Telephone Number
Hong Kong 852 2537 5610 U.K. 44 1442 278279 U.S.A. 1 408 727 7021
Local access numbers are available within the following countries:
Telephone
Country
Australia 1 800 123853 Netherlands 06 0228049 Belgium 0800 71279 Norway 800 11062 Denmark 800 17319 Portugal 0505 442 607 Finland 98 001 4444 Russia (Moscow only) 956 0815 France 05 90 81 58 Spain 900 964 445 Germany 0130 81 80 63 Sweden 020 792954 Italy 1678 99085 U.K. 0800 626403
Number
Country
Telephone Number
3ComForum on
CompuServe Online
Service
3ComForum is a CompuServe-based service containing patches, software, drivers, and technical articles about 3Com products, as well as a messaging section for peer support. To use 3ComForum, you need a CompuServe
®
account.
To use 3ComForum:
1 Log on to CompuServe. 2 Ty pe
go threecom
3 Press Return to view the 3ComForum main menu.
B-4 TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Support From Your Network Supplier

If additional assistance is required, contact your network supplier. Several suppliers are authorized 3Com service partners who are qualified to provide a variety of services, including network planning, installation, hardware maintenance, application training, and support services.
If you contact your network supplier for assistance, have the following information ready:
Diagnostic error messages
A list of system hardware and software, including revision levels
Details about recent configuration changes, if applicable
If you are unable to contact your network supplier, refer to the following section on how to contact 3Com.
Support From 3Com Corporation B-5

Support From 3Com Corporation

If you are unable to receive support from your network supplier, technical support contracts are available from 3Com.
Contact your local 3Com sales office to locate your authorized service provider using one of the following numbers:
Regional Sales Office Telephone Number Regional Sales Office Telephone Number
3Com Corporation
U.S.A.
3Com ANZA
East West
3Com Asia Limited
China
Hong Kong India Indonesia Korea Malaysia Singapore Taiwan Thailand
3Com Benelux B.V.
Belgium Netherlands
3Com Canada
Calgary Montreal Ottawa Toronto Vancouver
3Com France
3Com GmbH
Austria Czech and Slovak Republics Germany
Hungary Poland Switzerland
800 NET 3Com or 1 408 764 5000
61 2 9937 5000 61 3 9866 8022
86 10 68492 568 (Beijing) 86 21 6374 0220 Ext 6115 (Shanghai) 852 2501 1111 91 11 644 3974 62 21 523 9181 82 2 319 4711 60 3 732 7910 65 538 9368 886 2 377 5850 662 231 8151 4
32 725 0202 31 30 6029700
403 265 3266 514 683 3266 613 566 7055 416 498 3266 604 434 3266
33 1 69 86 68 00
43 1 5134323 42 2 21845 800 49 30 3498790 (Berlin) 49 89 627320 (Munich) 36 1 250 83 41 48 22 6451351 41 31 996 14 14
3Com Ireland
3Com Japan
3Com Latin America
Argentina Brazil Chile Colombia Mexico Peru Venezuela
3Com Mediterraneo
Italy
3Com Middle East
3Com Nordic AB
Denmark Finland Norway Sweden
3Com Russia
3Com South Africa
3Com UK Limited
353 1 820 7077 81 3 3345 7251
54 1 312 3266 55 11 546 0869 56 2 633 9242 57 1 629 4110 52 5 520 7841 51 1 221 5399 58 2 953 8122
39 2 253011 (Milan) 39 6 5279941 (Rome)
971 4 349049
45 39 27 85 00 358 0 435 420 67 47 22 18 40 03 46 8 632 56 00
007 095 2580940 27 11 807 4397 44 131 2478558 (Edinburgh)
44 161 8737717 (Manchester) 44 1628 897000 (Marlow)
B-6 TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Returning Products for Repair

Accessing the 3Com MIB
Before you send a product directly to 3Com for repair, you must first obtain a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number. Products sent to 3Com without RMA numbers are returned to the sender unopened, at the sender’s expense.
To obtain an RMA number, call or fax:
Country Telephone Number Fax Number
U.S.A. and Canada 1 800 876 3266, option 2 408 764 7120 Latin America 1 408 326 7801 408 764 7120 Europe, South Africa and
Middle East Outside Europe, U.S.A.,
and Canada
44 1442 438125 44 1442 435822
1 408 326 7804 1 408 764 7120
The 3Com Management Information Base (MIB) describes commands that enable you to manage 3Com SNMP-based products. The MIB is available over the Internet on an anonymous FTP server. Updates to these MIBs are released as new 3Com products are introduced.
To access Internet versions:
1 FTP to
ftp.3com.com (151.104.9.65).
2 Enter the login name anonymous . 3 Enter your full Internet e-mail address as the password
(for example,
4 Change to the /pub/mibs directory using the command
jdoe@company.com).
cd/pub/mibs.
5 Read the readisd.txt file to determine the MIB or MIBs you need to
manage your 3Com products.
6 To view the 3Com MIB, OID, or schema entries, enter the
To pause the display, press Ctrl+S.
To continue the display, press Ctrl+Q.
ls command.
7 Copy the MIB, OID, or schema files to your current directory using the
appropriate command (for example,
8 Exit the FTP session using the
quit command.
get isd.mib).
Contacting 3Com Technical Publications B-7

Contacting 3Com Technical Publications

02/06/97
If you have comments or questions on 3Com Technical Publications documents, contact the Technical Publications group by fax at (508) 229-1551.

INDEX

Numerics
10BASE-T
transceivers
20/40-Port module, 3-24
20-Port module, 3-23 40-Port module, 3-23 configuring, 3-10 hot swap capability, 1-2 installing, 3-7 LEDs, 3-24 module status LEDs, 4-2 network configurations, 2-1 port status LEDs, 4-3 procedures for handling, 3-2 theory of operation, 1-6
20/40-Port module LEDs
interpreting
3Com Bulletin Board Service (3ComBBS), B-2 3Com sales offices, B-5 3Com URL, B-2 3ComFacts, B-3 3ComForum, B-3
, 2-6
, 3-24
Component side view, 3-18 CompuServe, B-3 Configuration distance calculation
sample
Configuration rules
Configuring
CoreBuilder 5000 hub
, 2-6
fiber backbone general, 2-1, 2-3 twisted pair backbone, 2-7
20/40-Port module
hot swap capabilities
, 2-5, 2-6, 2-7
, 3-10
, 3-7
D
Daughter cards
gathering statistics
DIP switch
, 3-4, 3-5, 3-10
location module configuration, 3-4 overview, 3-4 settings, 3-4, 3-15, 3-18
, 1-2
A
Audience of Manual, 1
B
Backbone
fiber medium
Bi-color LED operation, 3-25 Bridges, 2-5 bulletin board service, B-2
, 2-1
C
Cabling
connectors equivalent distance, 2-7 fiber backbone, 2-5, 2-6, 2-7 redundant links, 2-14, 2-15 twisted pair backbone, 2-7
Chapter descriptions, 1
, A-3
E
Electrical specifications, A-1 Electro static discharge
precautionary procedures
Environmental specifications, A-2 Equivalent distance, 2-7 Ethernet
four-repeater rule
, 3-2
, 2-7
F
fax service. See 3ComFacts FCC notice Fiber backbone
Fiber backbones, 2-5 Fiber equivalent distance, 2-7 Fiber link distances, 2-3 Front panel indicators
, ii
twisted pair to-the-desk
activity LEDs
, 3-24
, 2-6
2 INDEX
G
General specifications, A-2
I
Installation
hot swap capabilities installing the module, 3-7, 3-9 quick installation chart, 3-3
Isolated network, 2-9
, 3-7
L
LAN product equivalent distances, 2-4 LED and network verification, 3-24 LEDs
how to verify
Link Integrity
configuring with network management
description, 3-13 link integrity, 3-18 Logical network, 2-9
, 3-24
M
Mechanical specifications, A-2 MIBs
3Com Module
Module configurations
, B-6
20-Port
, 1-4
40-Port, 1-4
installing, 3-3
overview, 1-4
segment, 3-4
show command
, 3-16
N
Network
assignment
configurations, 2-6
unshielded twisted pair, 2-8 Network management, 3-10
configuring, 3-11
monitoring ONline modules, 3-19
with slave module, 3-11 Network selection, 3-15
per connector, 3-15 network supplier support, B-4
, 3-15
, 3-13
O
Online technical services, B-1
P
Patch panels, 2-9 Per-port statistics
ONline module restrictions
Per-port switching, 1-3 PLC
Private Line Card security, 1-2
Port redundancy, 3-12
switchover conditions, 2-15
Ports
description
Private Line Card, 1-2 Procedures for unpacking, 3-2
, 1-2
, 3-11
, 3-19
R
Redundancy, 2-15
between ports on two 20/40-Port modules, 2-15 between two ports on one 20/40-Port module,
2-14
Redundant links, 2-13 Repeater statistics, 3-19 Repeaters, 2-5 returning products for repair, B-6
S
Segments
Set port squelch, 3-14 Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
SNMP. See Simple Network Management Protocol Specifications
Squelch mode command, 3-14 Squelch settings
Star topology, 2-2 Status LEDs
, 3-19
isolated non-isolated, 3-19
commands
, B-6
, A-1
electrical, A-1 environmental, A-2 general, A-2 mechanical, A-2
low
, 3-14
normal, 3-14
troubleshooting
, 4-3
T
Technical Assistance, 4-4 Technical Support, 4-4 technical support, B-1
3Com URL, B-2 bulletin board service, B-2 fax service, B-3 network suppliers, B-4 product repair, B-6 using CompuServe, B-3
Troubleshooting
module status LED port status LEDs, 4-3 Technical Assistance, 4-4
Twisted pair
cables
, A-4
connectors, A-3
Twisted pair cables
connecting
Twisted pair configuration
redundant links
Twisted pair wiring
configuration rules
, 4-2
, A-4
, 2-14
, 2-5
INDEX 3
U
Unshielded twisted pair, 2-6, 2-8 URL, B-2
V
Verification
network assignments
, 3-24
W
Workgroups, 2-9 World Wide Web, B-2 WWW, B-2

3Com Corporation LIMITED WARRANTY

For purposes of this warranty, the CoreBuilder 5000 Ethernet 20-Port and 40-Port 10BASE-T Modules are considered Internetworking products.
HARDWARE 3Com warrants its hardware products to be free from defects in workmanship and materials, under
normal use and service, for the following lengths of time from the date of purchase from 3Com or its Authorized Reseller:
Internetworking products 1 year
Network adapters Lifetime
Ethernet stackable hubs and Unmanaged Ethernet fixed port repeaters Lifetime*
*Power supply and fans in the stackable hubs and unmanaged repeaters 1 year
Other hardware products 1 year
Spare parts and spares kits 90 days
If a product does not operate as warranted above during the applicable warranty period, 3Com shall, at its option and expense, repair the defective product or part, deliver to Customer an equivalent product or part to replace the defective item, or refund to Customer the purchase price paid for the defective product. All products that are replaced will become the property of 3Com. Replacement products may be new or reconditioned. Any replaced or repaired product or part has a 90-day warranty or the remainder of the initial warranty period, whichever is longer.
3Com shall not be responsible for any software, firmware, information, or memory data of Customer contained in, stored on, or integrated with any products returned to 3Com for repair, whether under warranty or not.
(1 year if not registered)
SOFTWARE 3Com warrants that the software programs licensed from it will perform in substantial conformance to the
program specifications therefor for a period of 90 days from the date of purchase from 3Com or its Authorized Reseller. 3Com warrants the media containing software against failure during the warranty period. No updates are provided. 3Com’s sole obligation with respect to this express warranty shall be (at 3Com’s discretion) to refund the purchase price paid by Customer for any defective software products, or to replace any defective media with software which substantially conforms to 3Com’s applicable published specifications. Customer assumes responsibility for the selection of the appropriate applications program and associated reference materials. 3Com makes no warranty or representation that its software products will work in combination with any hardware or applications software products provided by third parties, that the operation of the software products will be uninterrupted or error free, or that all defects in the software products will be corrected. For any third-party products listed in the 3Com software product documentation or specifications as being compatible, 3Com will make reasonable efforts to provide compatibility, except where the noncompatibility is caused by a “bug” or defect in the third party’s product.
STANDARD WAR RANTY S
ERVICE
WARRANTIES EXCLUSIVE IF A 3COM PRODUCT DOES NOT OPERATE AS WARRANTED ABOVE, CUSTOMER’S SOLE REMEDY FOR
Standard warranty service for hardware products may be obtained by delivering the defective product, accompanied by a copy of the dated proof of purchase, to 3Com’s Corporate Service Center or to an Authorized 3Com Service Center during the applicable warranty period. Standard warranty service for software products may be obtained by telephoning 3Com’s Corporate Service Center or an Authorized 3Com Service Center, within the warranty period. Products returned to 3Com’s Corporate Service Center must be pre-authorized by 3Com with a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number marked on the outside of the package, and sent prepaid, insured, and packaged appropriately for safe shipment. The repaired or replaced item will be shipped to Customer, at 3Com’s expense, not later than 30 days after receipt of the defective product by 3Com.
BREACH OF THAT WARRANTY SHALL BE REPAIR, REPLACEMENT, OR REFUND OF THE PURCHASE PRICE PAID, AT 3COM’S OPTION. TO THE FULL EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW, THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES ARE EXCLUSIVE AND ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, TERMS, OR CONDITIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, EITHER IN FACT OR BY OPERATION OF LAW, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING WARRANTIES, TERMS, OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND SATISFACTORY QUALITY. 3COM NEITHER ASSUMES NOR AUTHORIZES ANY OTHER PERSON TO ASSUME FOR IT ANY OTHER LIABILITY IN CONNECTION WITH THE SALE, INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE, OR USE OF ITS PRODUCTS.
3COM SHALL NOT BE LIABLE UNDER THIS WARRANTY IF ITS TESTING AND EXAMINATION DISCLOSE THAT THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN THE PRODUCT DOES NOT EXIST OR WAS CAUSED BY CUSTOMER’S OR ANY THIRD PERSON’S MISUSE, NEGLECT, IMPROPER INSTALLATION OR TESTING, UNAUTHORIZED ATTEMPTS TO REPAIR OR MODIFY, OR ANY OTHER CAUSE BEYOND THE RANGE OF THE INTENDED USE, OR BY ACCIDENT, FIRE, LIGHTNING, OR OTHER HAZARD.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY TO THE FULL EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW, 3COM ALSO EXCLUDES FOR ITSELF AND ITS SUPPLIERS ANY
LIABILITY, WHETHER BASED IN CONTRACT OR TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), FOR INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, OR FOR LOSS OF REVENUE OR PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF INFORMATION OR DATA, OR OTHER FINANCIAL LOSS ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE SALE, INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE, USE, PERFORMANCE, FAILURE, OR INTERRUPTION OF ITS PRODUCTS, EVEN IF 3COM OR ITS AUTHORIZED RESELLER HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES, AND LIMITS ITS LIABILITY TO REPAIR, REPLACEMENT, OR REFUND OF THE PURCHASE PRICE PAID, AT 3COM’S OPTION. THIS DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES WILL NOT BE AFFECTED IF ANY REMEDY PROVIDED HEREIN SHALL FAIL OF ITS ESSENTIAL PURPOSE.
Some countries, states, or provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of implied warranties or the limitation of incidental or consequential damages for certain products supplied to consumers, so the above limitations and exclusions may be limited in their application to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights which may vary depending on local law.
GOVERNING LAW This Limited Warranty shall be governed by the laws of the state of California.
3Com Corporation, 5400 Bayfront Plaza, Santa Clara, CA 95052-8145 (408) 764-5000
10/20/96
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