Cabletron Systems BRIM-F6 User Manual

BRIM-F6

USER’S GUIDE

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION.........................................................1-1

1.1 Using This Manual.......................................................................1-2

1.2 Getting Help.................................................................................1-2

1.3 BRIM-F6 Overview......................................................................1-3

1.4 BRIM-F6 Features....................................................................... 1-3

1.5 Related Documentation............................................................... 1-4

CHAPTER 2 INSTALLATION........................................................... 2-1

2.1 Unpacking the BRIM and the FPIM............................................. 2-1

2.2 Installing FPIMs........................................................................... 2-2

2.3 Installing the BRIM-F6................................................................. 2-3

2.3.1 Installing a BRIM-F6 into a MIM.....................................2-4

2.3.2 Installing a BRIM-F6 into a Hub......................................2-7

CHAPTER 3 USING LANVIEW .......................................................3-1

CHAPTER 4 SPECIFICATIONS.......................................................4-1

4.1 Fiber Optic interface....................................................................4-1

4.2 Cable Specifications.................................................................... 4-5

4.3 Twisted Pair Pinout Configuration................................................4-7

4.4 Environment ................................................................................4-8

4.5 Safety ..........................................................................................4-8

APPENDIX A BASIC FDDI NETWORKS .........................................A-1

A.1 Basic FDDI Concepts..................................................................A-1

A.2 FDDI Media Access Protocol.......................................................A-1

A.3 Reliability.....................................................................................A-3

A.4 ANSI Standard X3T9.5................................................................A-4

A.5 FDDI Connection Rules...............................................................A-8

A.6 FDDI Devices ..............................................................................A-9

A.7 Design Considerations for FDDI Networks................................A-14

A.7.1 Ring Length ..................................................................A-14

A.7.2 Drive Distance ..............................................................A-15

A.7.3 Attenuation ...................................................................A-15

A.7.4 Bandwidth.....................................................................A-16

A.7.5 Number of Stations.......................................................A-16

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

vii

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the Cabletron Systems

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

. This
manual describes features, explains installation procedures, and provides
specifications for the BRIM-F6 — Cabletron Systems FDDI Bridge/
Router Interface Module (BRIM).

The BRIM-F6 resides in, and provides additional connectivity/
functionality to, various Cabletron MIMs and hubs (e.g., the EMM-E6,
ESXMIM, NBR-420/620 or MicroMMAC). The BRIM-F6 utilizes two
FPIM (FDDI Port Interface Module) slots to provide you with the option
of using multimode fiber optic, single mode fiber optic, unshielded
twisted pair, or shielded twisted pair transceiver ports based on your
network requirements.

RESERVED FOR FPIM

RESERVED FOR FPIM

RESERVED FOR FPIM

RESERVED FOR FPIM

FPIM B

FPIM B

BRIM-F6

BRIM-F6

XMTPWR RCV STS

XMTPWR RCV STS

WRPLNK TWR LNK
WRPLNK TWR LNK

FPIM A

FPIM A

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

Figure 1-1. BRIM-F6

Page 1-1

CHAPTER 1:

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Using This Manual

Read through this manual completely to familiarize yourself with its
content and to gain an understanding of the features and capabilities of
the BRIM-F6.

In addition to having a general working knowledge of Ethernet and IEEE

802.3 type data communications networks and their physical layer
components, you should also understand FDDI networks and the ANSI
X3T9.5 standard prior to installing the BRIM-F6. For a review of FDDI,
see Appendix A,

Basic FDDI Networks

.

Chapter 1,

Introduction

, outlines the contents of this manual, highlights

BRIM-F6 features, and concludes with a list of related documentation.

Chapter 2,

Installation

, describes how to install FPIMs into the BRIM-F6
and how to install the BRIM-F6 into a Media Interface Module (MIM) or
a stand-alone hub.

Chapter 3,

Using LANVIEW

, describes how to use the front panel LEDs

to monitor BRIM performance.

Chapter 4,

Specifications

, lists various electrical and physical

specifications of the BRIM-F6.

Appendix A,

Basic FDDI Networks

, covers basic concepts of FDDI

networks, FDDI devices, and design/installation considerations.

1.2 Getting Help

If you need additional support related to the BRIM-F6, or if you have any
questions, comments, or suggestions concerning this manual, contact
Cabletron Systems Technical Support:

By phone ..........................[phone]

Monday-Friday; 8am - 8pm EST

By CompuServe

®

GO CTRON from any ! prompt

By Internet mail [e-mail]

Page 1-2

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

BRIM-F6 Overview

1.3 BRIM-F6 Overview

The BRIM-F6 is an FDDI Bridge Router Interface Module (BRIM)
developed for use in Cabletron’s MMAC-FNB and MicroMMAC. The
BRIM-F6 can be used to provide a high-speed uplink from lower speed
networks such as Ethernet to a 100 Mbps FDDI backbone.

1.4 BRIM-F6 Features

Connectivity

The BRIM-F6 is equipped with slots for FDDI A and B ports. These two
ports allow connection to the ring as a Dual Attached Station (D AS) using
two FPIMs or as a Single Attached Station (SAS) using one FPIM.

As a DAS, the MIM or hub that houses the BRIM-F6 connects directly to
the FDDI main ring. This provides the reliability of an FDDI dual,
counter-rotating ring topology. If one segment of the FDDI ring becomes
disabled, this dual ring configuration provides redundancy and restores
ring continuity.

As a SAS, the BRIM-F6 connects to the primary ring only by using a
single FPIM on the BRIM-F6 to attach to the M port of an FDDI
concentrator.

A dual homing configuration provides an additional redundancy feature
for the MIM or hub containing the BRIM-F6. Dual homing is a way of
connecting to an FDDI ring through the Master (M type) ports of two
separate dual attached concentrators. If one M type port or one segment
fails, the redundant port or segment activates automatically to retain
connection to the ring.

For more information regarding DAS, SAS or dual homing
configurations, refer to Appendix A,

Bridging

Basic FDDI Networks

.

The BRIM-F6 provides translational bridging between any channels or
ports in its host MIM or hub and the FDDI ring.

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

Page 1-3

CHAPTER 1:

LANVIEW Diagnostic LEDs

INTRODUCTION

The BRIM-F6’s front panel LEDs help you diagnose Bridge, Port, and
Network status.

1.5 Related Documentation

Use the following documentation to supplement the procedures, and other
technical data in this manual. This manual may reference procedures in
these documents, where appropriate, but does not repeat them.

Cabletron Systems’

Cabletron Systems’

Cabletron Systems’

Cabletron Systems’

Cabletron Systems’

Cabletron Systems’

Cabletron Systems’

Cabletron Systems’

EMM-E6 Installation Guide
EMM-E6 Local Management Guide
ESXMIM Installation Guide
ESXMIM Local Management Guide

MicroMMAC User’s Guide

NBR-620/420/220 Installation Guide
NBR-620/420/220 Local Management Guide
Router Services Manuals

The Simple Book, An Introduction to Management of TCP/IP-based
Internets

, Marshall T. Rose, Prentice-Hall, Inc., 1991.

Page 1-4

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

CHAPTER 2

INSTALLATION

This chapter contains instructions for unpacking the BRIM-F6, installing
FPIMs, and installing the BRIM-F6 into Cabletron devices that support
BRIM technology.

Note

: The BRIM-F6 is not shipped with the FPIMs installed. You must
order the correct FDDI Port Interface Modules based upon your network
requirements.

To install the BRIM and FPIMs, you need the following tools:

• 1 disposable wrist strap (provided with any BRIM, MIM or hub)

• 1 Phillips screwdriver.

Caution:

Observe all static precautions while handling modules.

2.1 Unpacking the BRIM and the FPIMs

Unpack the modules as follows:

1. Remove the shipping box material covering the module.

2. Carefully remove the module from the shipping box. Leave the module

in its static-shielding bag until you are ready to install.

3. After removing the module from its static-shielding bag, visually

inspect the device. If you notice any signs of damage, contact
Cabletron Systems Technical Support immediately.

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

Page 2-1

CHAPTER 2:

INSTALLATION

2.2 Installing the FPIMs

To install an FPIM into the BRIM-F6:

1. Remove the screws securing the FPIM coverplate and the coverplate.
See Figure 2-1.

2. Insert the connector pins of the FPIM into the connector on the
BRIM-F6. See Figure 2-2.

FPIM Screws

RESERVED FOR FPIM

RESERVED FOR FPIM

RESERVED FOR FPIM

RESERVED FOR FPIM

FPIM B

FPIM B

BRIM-F6

BRIM-F6

XMTPWR RCV STS

XMTPWR RCV STS

WRPLNK TWR LNK
WRPLNK TWR LNK

FPIM A

FPIM A

FPIM Coverplate

Figure 2-1. Removing the FPIM Coverplate

3. Press down firmly on the FPIM until the pins slide all the way into the
connector holes.

4. Secure the FPIM with the screws provided.

Page 2-2

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

FPIM Screws

FPIM Connector

Figure 2-2. Installing FPIMs

RESERVED FOR FPIM

FPIM B

FPIM B

Installing the BRIM-F6

Standoffs

RESERVED FOR FPIM

BRIM-F6

BRIM-F6

XMTPWR RCV STS

XMTPWR RCV STS

WRPLNK TWR LNK

WRPLNK TWR LNK

RESERVED FOR FPIM

FPIM A

FPIM A

2.3 Installing the BRIM-F6

This section contains procedures on how to install a BRIM-F6 to upgrade
or change the capabilities of a device’s motherboard.

Note:

Cabletron provides disposable wrist straps and faceplate and
standoff screws in both the BRIM package and on devices that support
BRIM technology.

You can install a BRIM-F6 in any device that supports BRIM technology
(e.g., EMM-E6, ESXMIM, NBR-420/620, or MicroMMAC). The
following subsections provide instructions for installing a BRIM-F6 in a
MIM or in a stand-alone hub. Refer to specific MIM or hub
documentation for exact BRIM slot and connector locations.

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

Page 2-3

CHAPTER 2:

INSTALLATION

2.3.1 Installing a BRIM-F6 into a MIM

To install a BRIM-F6 in a Media Interface Module (MIM) that supports
BRIM technology (e.g., EMM-E6):

Note

: We recommend that you power down your hub even though

Cabletron MIMs have “hot swap” capabilities.

1. Power-down your MMAC hub.

2. Disconnect all cables from the module. Note each connection.

3. Unscrew the top and bottom knurled knobs of the MIM face plate.

4. Slide out the MIM, and place it on its side with the internal
components facing up.

5. Remove the BRIM coverplate screws and the BRIM coverplate.

Note:

The BRIM-F6 requires an additional 24 pin ribbon connection.
MIMs that support BRIMs provide one slot that supports this connection.
Install the BRIM-F6 in the BRIM slot with the ribbon cable jack.

6. Remove BRIM standoff screws.

7. Place your BRIM behind the MIM faceplate. (See Figure 2-3.)

8. Insert the connector pins of the BRIM-F6 into the motherboard

connector on the MIM.

9. Press down firmly on the back of the BRIM until the pins slide all the

way into the connector holes.

Note:

Make sure that the standoffs align with the standoff screw holes.

10. Reinstall the faceplate mounting screws and standoff screws.

Note:

Faceplate and support post screws are provided both on the MIM
and in the BRIM package, for your convenience.

Page 2-4

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

Installing the BRIM-F6

Standoff

Screw

Standoff

Connector

Pins

Under

BRIM-F6

FPIM A

XMTPWR RCV STS

WRPLNK TWR LNK

FPIM B

BRIM

Coverplate/

Faceplate

Screws

Motherboard

Connector

Figure 2-3. Installing the BRIM-F6

The BRIM-F6 requires a special 24 pin ribbon connector in addition to
the standard 96 pin BRIM connector. This ribbon connector allows the
BRIM-F6 to use in-line filtering functionality.

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

Page 2-5

CHAPTER 2:

WRP

TWR

RCV

XMT

STS

INSTALLATION

To install the BRIM-F6 ribbon cable:

1. Insert one ribbon cable connector into the ribbon cable jack on the

BRIM. (See Figure 2-4.)

Tab

Ribbon

Cable

Connector

Groove

Ribbon

Cable

Jack

Figure 2-4. Installing the BRIM-F6 Ribbon Cable

Caution:

The ribbon cable connector only fits into the ribbon cable jack
one way. Fit the tab on the connector into the gr oove in the jack for corr ect
cable orientation.

2. Press down on the connector until the clips on the jack snap into a

vertical locked position.

Page 2-6

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

Installing the BRIM-F6

3. Insert the remaining ribbon cable connector into the ribbon cable jack
on the MIM.

4. Press down on the connector until the clips on the jack snap into a
vertical locked position.

After returning the MIM to the chassis, returning power to your hub, and
reconnecting to the network, the BRIM-F6 is now ready for operation.

2.3.2 Installing a BRIM-F6 into a Hub

To install a BRIM-F6 into a stand-alone hub that supports BRIM
technology (e.g., MicroMMAC):

1. Power-down your hub.

2. Disconnect all cables from the hub. Note the port-to-cable
connections.

3. Remove the chassis cover.

Note:

Refer to specific hub documentation for instructions on removing the

hub chassis cover.

4. Remove the BRIM coverplate/faceplate screws.

Note:

The BRIM-F6 requires an additional 24 pin ribbon connection.
Hubs that support BRIM technology only provide one BRIM slot that
supports this connection. Make sure you install the BRIM-F6 in the BRIM
slot with the ribbon cable jack.

5. Remove BRIM standoff screws.

6. Remove the BRIM coverplate.

7. Place your BRIM behind the hub faceplate. (See Figure 2-3.)

8. Insert the connector pins of the BRIM-F6 into the motherboard

connector in the hub.

BRIM-F6 User’s Guide

Page 2-7