NETGEAR FE508, FE516 Installation Manual

Installation Guide for
the Model FE508 and
Model FE516 Fast
Ethernet Hubs

NETGEAR, Inc.
A Bay Networks Company
48105 Warm Springs Blvd.
Fremont, CA 94539 USA

June 1996

Document Number M-FE500NA-0

© 1996 by Bay Networks, Inc. All rights reserved.

Trademarks

NETGEAR and Bay Networks are trademarks of Bay Networks, Inc.
Other brand and product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective holders.

Statement of Conditions

In the interest of improving internal design, operational function, and/or reliability, NETGEAR, Inc. reserves the right to
make changes to the products described in this document without notice.

NETGEAR, Inc. does not assume any liability that may occur due to the use or application of the product(s) or circuit
layout(s) described herein.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Statement

Note: This equipment has been 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. If it is not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, it may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case
users will be required to take whatever measures may be necessary to correct the interference at their own expense.

EN 55 022 Declaration of Conformance

This is to certify that the NETGEAR Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs are shielded against the
generation of radio interference in accordance with the application of Council Directive 89/336/EEC, Article 4a.
Conformity is declared by the application of EN 55 022:1987 Class A (CISPR 22:1985/BS 6527:1988).

WARNING: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio
interference, in which case, the user may be required to take appropriate measures.

Bestätigung des Herstellers/Importeurs

Es wird hiermit bestätigt, daß das NETGEAR Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs gemäß der im BMPT­AmtsblVfg 243/1991 und Vfg 46/1992 aufgeführten Bestimmungen entstört ist. Das vorschriftsmäßige Betreiben einiger
Geräte (z.B. Testsender) kann jedoch gewissen Beschränkungen unterliegen. Lesen Sie dazu bitte die Anmerkungen in der
Betriebsanleitung.

Das Bundesamt für Zulassungen in der Telekommunikation wurde davon unterrichtet, daß dieses Gerät auf den Markt
gebracht wurde und es ist berechtigt, die Serie auf die Erfüllung der Vorschriften hin zu überprüfen.

Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer

It is hereby certified that the NETGEAR Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs have been suppressed in
accordance with the conditions set out in the BMPT-AmtsblVfg 243/1991 and Vfg 46/1992. The operation of some
equipment (for example, test transmitters) in accordance with the regulations may, however, be subject to certain
restrictions. Please refer to the notes in the operating instructions.

Federal Office for Telecommunications Approvals has been notified of the placing of this equipment on the market and
has been granted the right to test the series for compliance with the regulations.

ii

Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) Statement

Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) Statement

This equipment is in the 1st category (information equipment to be used in commercial and/or industrial areas) and
conforms to the standards set by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference by Data Processing Equipment and
Electronic Office Machines that are aimed at preventing radio interference in commercial and/or industrial areas.

Consequently, when this equipment is used in a residential area or in an adjacent area thereto, radio interference may be
caused to equipment such as radios and TV receivers.

Customer Support

For assistance with installing and configuring your NETGEAR systems or with post-installation questions or problems,
contact your point of purchase representative.

To contact customer support or to purchase additional copies of this document or publications for other NETGEAR
products, you can contact NETGEAR at the following numbers:

• Phone:

− U.S./Canada: 1-800-211-2069

− Japan: 0031-1-26133

− Germany: 0130-8-23776

• Fax:

− U.S./Canada: 510-498-2609

World Wide Web

NETGEAR maintains a World Wide Web Home Page that you can access at the universal resource locator (URL)
http://NETGEAR.baynetworks.com/home. A direct connection to the Internet and a Web Browser such as Mosaic or
Netscape are required.

iii

Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction

Features .......................................................................................................................................... 1-2

Chapter 2 Physical Description

Front Panel ..................................................................................................................................... 2-1

LED Display ................................................................................................ ............................. 2-2

RJ-45 100BASE-TX Ports......................................................................................................... 2-3

Normal/Uplink Push Button ...................................................................................................... 2-4

Rear Panel....................................................................................................................................... 2-5

Cascade Connectors................................................................ ................................................... 2-6

Terminator LED........................................................................................................................ 2-7

Fan Outlets................................................................................................................................ 2-7

Power Receptacle ...................................................................................................................... 2-7

Chapter 3 Installation

Site Preparation............................................................................................................................... 3-1

Package Contents............................................................................................................................ 3-2

Required Tools and Materials.......................................................................................................... 3-2

Installing a NETGEAR 100BASE-T Hub ................................................................ ....................... 3-2

Installing the Hub on a Flat Surface........................................................................................... 3-3

Installing the Hub in a Rack....................................................................................................... 3-4

Installing Multiple Hubs ................................................................................................................. 3-6

Stacking and Cascading Hubs.................................................................................................... 3-6

Installing and Connecting Multiple Hubs................................................................................... 3-6

Verifying Your Installation ............................................................................................................. 3-9

Chapter 4 Troubleshooting

Verifying the LED Conditions ........................................................................................................ 4-1

Troubleshooting the Hub and Network............................................................................................ 4-1

Chapter 5 Network Configuration Examples

Ethernet Technology....................................................................................................................... 5-1

Configuration Examples.................................................................................................................. 5-2

100BASE-TX Shared Repeater.................................................................................................. 5-2

Building Small Organizations or Remote Offices....................................................................... 5-3

Migrating to 100 Mbps Operation ........................................................................................ 5-3

Multiport Switch with Fast Ethernet Backbone..................................................................... 5-5

Contents v

Appendix A Technical Specifications

General Specifications.................................................................................................................... A-1

Appendix B Connector Pin Assignments

RJ-45 Connector............................................................................................................................. B-1

Appendix C Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines

Fast Ethernet................................................................................................................................... C-1

Fast Ethernet Cabling................................................................ ......................................................C-1

Cable Guidelines .......................................................................................................................C-2

Cable Lengths............................................................................................................................C-2

Cable Specifications................................................................................................ ..................C-3

Twisted-pair Cables................................................................................................................... C-4

Patch Panels and Cables ............................................................................................................ C-5

RJ-45 Connector................................................................................................ ........................C-5

Near End Crosstalk (NEXT) Loss.............................................................................................. C-5

Index

vi Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the NETGEAR™ Model FE508 8-port Fast Ethernet Hub or the
Model FE516 16-port Fast Ethernet Hub. These hubs are part of the NETGEAR 500 Series product
family, designed to efficiently handle the needs of your 10 and 100 megabits per second (Mbps)
network today, and expand to handle your increasing networking needs in the future. Both hubs are
IEEE 802.3u-based Class I shared repeaters that provide you with a low-cost, high-performance
scalable network solution and are designed to support power workgroups operating at 100 Mbps.

Users who are operating network intensive applications on powerful workstations require more
bandwidth than the conventional 10BASE-T network. By migrating users who require more
bandwidth to devices that operate at 100 Mbps, you can increase the bandwidth and improve response
times. By installing the Model FE508 or Model FE516 hub in your network, you can create a power
workgroup with many users who can share access to centralized network devices (such as servers and
printers) that are operating at 100 Mbps.

This guide describes how to install and use the hub and includes physical configuration guidelines for
stacking hubs, connecting Ethernet stations, and making network connections.

This guide is intended for individuals who have the following background and experience:

• Working knowledge of basic Ethernet

• Familiarity with the differences between the 10BASE-T and 100BASE-T specifications

Introduction 1-1

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Features

The Model FE508 and Model FE516 hubs have the following key features:

• IEEE 802.3u standard compliant for interoperation with all 100BASE-TX Fast Ethernet

(100 Mbps) products.

• Stackable architecture allows starting with as few as 8 ports and growing the network as required

by stacking up to four hubs for a total of 64 ports.

• Easy Plug-and-Play installation with no software to configure saves time and minimizes the

potential for configuration errors.

• Stackable chassis equipped with:

− 8 or 16 fast 100BASE-TX ports to provide fast information exchange, resource sharing, and

client or peer-to-peer communication using simple Category 5 UTP wiring.

− Built-in LEDs to clearly indicate individual port status.

− Additional LEDs to provide network traffic status for the hub.

− Normal/Uplink push button for simplifying network extension. In the Uplink mode, signals

are crossed to allow a straight-through cable to be used on one of the 100BASE-T ports (Port
8 on the Model FE508 hub and Port 16 on the Model FE516 hub) for connection to a
100BASE-T switch or router.

• Compact design enables tabletop or rack-mounting installation.

1-2 Introduction

Chapter 2 Physical Description

The Model FE508 and Model FE516 hub components are enclosed in a 13-inch (33.0 cm) wide by
8-inch (20.3 cm) deep chassis, which is 1.0 EIA rack-mount spaces high. The chassis consists of a
sturdy metal frame with a steel cover and an acrylic front panel overlay.

The discussion of the physical components of the hub is divided into the front panel components and
the rear panel components. Use the key at the bottom of each illustration to determine the associated
component.

Front Panel

The front panel contains the LEDs, RJ-45 100BASE-TX port connectors, and the Normal/Uplink push
button. Figure 2-1 shows the front panel of the Model FE508 hub and Figure 2-2 shows the front
panel of the Model FE516 hub.

1 = LEDs (Power, Data, and Collision)
2 = RJ-45 ports with Link and RX LEDs on each port
3 = Normal/Uplink push button

Figure 2-1. Front panel of the Model FE508 Fast Ethernet hub

Physical Description 2-1

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

1 = LEDs (Power, Data, and Collision)
2 = RJ-45 ports with Link and RX LEDs on each port
3 = Normal/Uplink push button

Figure 2-2. Front panel of the Model FE516 Fast Ethernet hub

LED Display

There are three LEDs on the front panel of the hub and two on each port connector that allow you to
identify:

• Status of the hub AC power supply

• Operational status of the hub

• Collision occurrence on an Ethernet segment in a standalone hub or a stack of hubs

• Data utilization of the Ethernet segment in a standalone hub or a stack of hubs

• Link and RX (receive activity) status for all ports in the hub

2-2 Physical Description

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Table 2-1 describes each LED on the front panel of the hub.

Table 2-1. LED descriptions

Type Label State Description

Power indicator Power On Power is supplied to the hub.
Data Data On Data is being received and transmitted to/from the hub.
Collision indicator Collision Blinking There is data collision on the network.
Link * Link On

Off

Receive * RX Blinking There is incoming data on the port.

* Link and RX LEDs are located at the top corners of each RJ-45 port connection.

A link is established successfully between the hub and
the PC or workstation.

No data link and/or the cable is not connected.

RJ-45 100BASE-TX Ports

The front panel of the Model FE508 hub provides 8 RJ-45 100BASE-TX ports and the Model FE516
provides 16 RJ-45 100BASE-TX ports. These standard RJ-45 connectors accept 2-pair or 4-pair
Category 5 unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) copper wiring (100BASE-TX networks require only
2-pair). The RJ-45 interface is an 8-pin connector.

CAUTION: 100 Mbps operation requires the use of Category 5 UTP wiring with
100 Mbps certified connectors. Refer to Appendix C, “Fast Ethernet and Cabling
Guidelines,” for more information on cabling.

An illustration of the RJ-45 connector and a table of pin assignments are in Appendix B, “Connector
Pin Assignments.” Table B-1 provides the pin out information for the Normal (MDI-X) RJ-45
connector and the Uplink (MDI) RJ-45 connector.

Two LEDs are positioned at the top corners of each RJ-45 connector. The left indicator is the Link
LED and the right indicator is the RX (receive) LED. Both LEDs are described in Table 2-1.

Physical Description 2-3

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Normal/Uplink Push Button

The Normal/Uplink push button (see Figure 2-3) on the front panel of the hub allows you to select
Uplink (MDI-X) or Normal (MDI) wiring for Port 8 on the Model FE508 hub and Port 16 on the
Model FE516 hub. Ports 8 and 16 are configured for Normal wiring when the push button is in the out
position. When the push button is pressed in, Ports 8 and 16 are configured for Uplink wiring.

Figure 2-3. Normal/Uplink push button

The Normal/Uplink push button eliminates the need to use a cross-over cable if you are connecting
the same type of devices. Use the following guidelines to configure Ports 8 and 16 for Uplink or
Normal wiring:

• Configure Ports 8 and 16 for Normal wiring if the remote end of the cable is connected to an

Uplink-wired device (such as a network station or a router).

• Configure Ports 8 and 16 for Uplink wiring if the remote end of the cable is connected to a

Normal device, such as a 10/100 Mbps switch.

The remaining (Normal) ports on the hubs cannot be configured for Uplink wiring. If you are using
one of these ports to connect to another Normal port, you must use an RJ-45 cross-over cable to
connect the two ports (refer to Appendix C, “Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines,” for information
on the cross-over and straight-through cables).

2-4 Physical Description

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Rear Panel

The rear panel of the hub provides two cascade cable connectors, a Terminator LED, two cooling
fans, and an AC power receptacle (see Figure 2-4).

1 = Cascade Up and Cascade Down connectors
2 = Terminator LED
3 = Fan assemblies
4 = AC power receptacle

Figure 2-4. Rear panel of either the Model FE508 or Model 516 hub

Physical Description 2-5

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Cascade Connectors

The Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet hubs can be stacked for a maximum of 64
(100 Mbps) ports in a single repeater or collision domain. The stack of four hubs can consist of any
combination of Model FE508 and Model FE516 hubs daisy-chained together using a NETGEAR­supplied cascade cable. The cascade cable daisy chains between the Cascade Down and Cascade Up
connectors (see Figure 2-5) on the rear panel of each hub. This connection creates a cascade bus that
carries information to each hub in the stack. Refer to “Installing and Connecting Multiple Hubs” in
Chapter 3, “Installation,” for a step-by-step procedure.

Figure 2-5. Cascade cabling two hubs

2-6 Physical Description

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Terminator LED

The Terminator LED, located on the rear panel of the hub, indicates that the built-in terminator in that
hub is active. When two or more hubs are cascaded together in a stack, the Terminator LED on the
top-most hub and the LED on the bottom-most hub should be lit to indicate that the terminator is
active in those hubs. The Terminator LED on the center hubs should not be lit. Use Table 2-2 to
determine which hubs in a stack should have the terminator active (LED on).

Table 2-2. Terminator LED status in a stack of hubs

Number of hubs Terminator LED

1 Lit
2 Both LEDs lit
3 or more Top and bottom LEDs lit, middle

LEDs off

Fan Outlets

Two fans cool the hub. Do not block the fan outlets, located on the rear panel, when installing in a
rack or on a tabletop or other flat surface.

Power Receptacle

The AC power receptacle is provided for connection to the AC power outlet. The hub accepts between
100 and 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz.

Physical Description 2-7

Chapter 3 Installation

This chapter provides information and procedures on:

• Preparing the installation site

• Unpacking the equipment

• Meeting tool and materials requirements

• Installing the hub

• Installing multiple hubs

• Verifying installation

Site Preparation

Before you begin installing the hubs, prepare the installation site. Make sure the operating
environment meets the physical requirements of the equipment (see Table 3-1).

Table 3-1. Operating environment requirements

Characteristic Requirement

Temperature Ambient temperature between 0° C and 40° C (32° F and 104° F).

No nearby heat sources such as direct sunlight, warm air exhausts, or heaters.
Humidity Between 5% and 85% noncondensing.
Ventilation Minimum 2 inches (5.08 cm) on all sides for cooling.

Adequate airflow in room or wiring closet.
Operating conditions At least 6 feet (1.83 m) to nearest source of electromagnetic noise (such as

photocopy machine or arc welder).
Service access Minimum 12 inches (19.68 cm) front and back for service access and maintenance.

Front and back clearance for cables and wiring hardware such as punchdown

blocks.
Power Adequate power source within 6 feet (1.83 m).
Tabletop requirements Approximately 13.0-inch (33.0 cm) by 8.0-inch (20.3 cm) flat area.
Rack installation

requirements

Standard 19-inch (48.26 cm) EIA equipment rack, with supplied mounting bracket

hardware, 1.0 EIA rack-mount spaces needed for each NETGEAR 100BASE-T hub.

Installation 3-1

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Wiring hardware Wiring hardware, such as punchdown blocks or patch panels, should be complete

before installing the hub.

3-2 Installation

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Package Contents

The package should contain the following items:

• Model FE508 or Model FE516 Fast Ethernet hub

• Rack mounting kit

• Cascade cable

• Rubber pads for tabletop installation

• Owner registration card

• Power cord

CAUTION: Use the appropriate power cord as required by your national electrical codes
and ordinances.

Call your dealer if there are any wrong, missing, or damaged parts. Keep the carton, including the
original packing materials. Use them to repack the hub if there is a need to return it for repair.

To qualify for product updates and product warranty registration, fill in the Owner Registration Card
and return it to NETGEAR, Inc.

Required Tools and Materials

To install the hub, you need the following tools and materials:

• Cascade cable to connect two stacked hubs (a full stack of four hubs requires three cascade

cables)

• #1 Phillips screwdriver to attach mounting brackets

• #2 Phillips screwdriver to tighten mounting screws

Installation 3-3

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Installing a NETGEAR 100BASE-T Hub

This section provides information and instructions for installing a single hub in a rack or on a tabletop
or any other flat surface. For instructions on installing multiple hubs, see “Installing Multiple Hubs”
later in this chapter.

There are certain guidelines to follow when installing 100 Mb/s networks. The EIA/TIA 568-A
standard recommends the installation of Category 5 UTP to handle up to 100 MHz bandwidth. Use
the following guidelines to ensure that your cables perform to the specifications:

• Certification. Make sure that your Category 5 UTP cable has completed the Underwriters

Laboratories (UL) or Electronic Testing Laboratories (ETL) certification process.

• Termination method. To minimize crosstalk noise, maintain the twist ratio of the cable up to the

point of termination. Untwist at any termination should not exceed 0.5 inch (1.5 cm).

• Pairing options. For optimal performance, use the EIA-568 Commercial Building Wiring

Standard pairing option at each end of the cable. The terminating hardware offered by most
major manufactures is correctly color-coded for proper wire placement according to the standard.

Installing the Hub on a Flat Surface

To install the hub on a table or shelf, follow these steps:

1. Install self-adhesive pads on the bottom of the hub.

Peel off the protective backing from the rubber pads and apply one at each marked location on the
bottom of the hub (see Figure 3-1).

Figure 3-1. Attaching self-adhesive pads

3-4 Installation

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

2. Set the hub on a table or shelf so that it has at least two inches (5 cm) of space on all sides.

It is very important that the fans located in the rear panel are not blocked. Restricted airflow could
cause overheating of the components.

3. Install any additional hubs in your stack.

The stack of hubs can consist of any combination of Model FE508 and Model FE516 hubs
(maximum of four hubs to a stack). For instructions on installing multiple hubs, see “Installing
Multiple Hubs” later in this chapter.

4. Connect the devices to the ports on the hub using Category 5 UTP wiring and connectors to

the RJ-45 connectors.

Refer to Appendix C, “Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines,” for wiring rules and guidelines.

5. When installation for each hub in your stack is complete, connect the power cord(s) first to

the power entry receptacle on the hub rear panel and then to the wall.

6. Continue with the steps in “Verifying Your Installation” later in this chapter.

Installing the Hub in a Rack

To install the hub in a rack, follow these steps:

1. Attach the mounting brackets (supplied in the rack mounting kit) to the sides of the hub

using the screws provided.

Hold a mounting bracket against each side of the hub, as shown in Figure 3-2, and align the
countersunk screw holes in the bracket with the bracket mounting holes in the hub. Use a #1
Phillips screwdriver and tighten the screws to secure each bracket.

2. Attach the hub (with the mounting bracket) to the rack using two pan-head screws with

nylon washers.

Use a #2 Phillips screwdriver and tighten the screws to secure the hub to the rack.

3. Install any additional hubs in your stack.

The stack of hubs can consist of any combination of Model FE508 and Model FE516 hubs
(maximum of four hubs to a stack). For instructions on installing multiple hubs, see “Installing
Multiple Hubs” later in this chapter.

Installation 3-5

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Figure 3-2. Installing the hub in an equipment rack

4. Connect the devices to the ports on the hub using Category 5 UTP wiring and connectors to
the RJ-45 connectors.

Refer to Appendix C, “Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines,” for wiring rules and guidelines.

5. When installation for each hub in your stack is complete, connect the power cord(s) first to
the power entry receptacle on the hub rear panel and then to the wall.

6. Continue with the steps in “Verifying Your Installation” later in this chapter.

3-6 Installation

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Installing Multiple Hubs

This section provides you with information about installing a stack of hubs. This section includes the
guidelines for stacking and cascading hubs and the physical requirements for installing multiple hubs.
Review the guidelines and requirements before installing your equipment.

Stacking and Cascading Hubs

The Cascade Up and Cascade Down connectors on the rear panel of the hub and the supplied cascade
cable provide the ability to stack and link up to four hubs. This stack then functions as a single
repeater or collision domain. By stacking hubs, you can expand the network to a maximum of 64
100BASE-TX ports.

The cascade cable is a unique cable designed for the NETGEAR hub. This cable is used to connect
two adjacent hubs in a stack.

CAUTION: Use only the NETGEAR-supplied cascade cable. Use of any other cables or
attempting to add length to the supplied cable is likely to cause performance degradation
or network problems. Replacement cables are available from NETGEAR at the contact
numbers listed in the front of this manual.

Installation 3-7

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Installing and Connecting Multiple Hubs

Position the hub you want to be at the top of the stack. For rack installations, you should leave enough
space in the rack to expand the stack to four hubs. Each hub occupies 1.0 EIA rack-mount spaces.

The procedure to install and connect multiple hubs is similar for rack installations and tabletop or
shelf installations. To install multiple hubs, follow these steps:

1. Install one hub at a time in the rack or on the shelf or tabletop.

Refer to “Installing the Hub in a Rack” or “Installing the Hub on a Flat Surface” earlier in this
chapter.

2. Disconnect the power cords from the hubs you are connecting.

CAUTION: Failure to disconnect power from all the hubs prior to connecting the cascade

cables could cause damage to the hub unit.

3. Connect the hubs using the cascade cables (see Figure 3-3).

a. Connect one end of the cascade cable to the Cascade Down connector on the rear panel of the

hub on the top.

b. Connect the other end of the cascade cable to the Cascade Up connector on the rear panel of

the hub on the bottom.

Figure 3-3. Installing a cascade cable

4. Tighten the screw locks on the cable connectors to secure the plugs to the hubs.

3-8 Installation

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for all the hubs in the stack.

When you have four hubs stacked together, make sure the following conditions exist
(see Figure 3-4):

− The Cascade Up connector on the top hub is empty.

− The Cascade Down connector on the bottom hub is empty.

− The Terminator LED is lit on the top and bottom hub.

− The Terminator LED is not lit on the middle hubs.

Figure 3-4. Four hub stack configuration

6. Connect the power cords to the AC power receptacles on the rear panel of all the hubs
in the stack.

7. Connect the power cord to the power outlet.

8. Continue with the steps in “Verifying Your Installation” later in this chapter.

Installation 3-9

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Verifying Your Installation

When installation is complete and power has been applied to the hub, the following conditions should
exist:

• Power LED on the front panel is on.

• Link LED on each connected port should be on.

• Data LED on the front panel is blinking when data is being received by any port in the hub and

the Data LED on the connected port is blinking when data is being received by that port.

• On a single hub, the Terminator LED on the rear panel is on.

• In a stack of hubs, the Terminator LEDs on the top and bottom hubs are on. The Terminator LED

on the middle hub(s) is off.

If there are any problems, refer to Chapter 4, “Troubleshooting.”

3-10 Installation

Chapter 4 Troubleshooting

This chapter provides information about troubleshooting the hub. Hub status can be monitored
through the front panel and port indicators (refer to Chapter 2, “Physical Description,” for a
description and location of the LEDs).

Verifying the LED Conditions

At power on, verify the following LED conditions:

• Power LED is on.

• Link LED on each connected port is lit.

• Terminator LED on the rear panel is:

− Lit for a single hub.

− Lit on the top and bottom hubs in a stack.

− Off on the middle hub(s) in the stack.

Troubleshooting the Hub and Network

Use Table 4-1 to troubleshoot the hub and network.

Troubleshooting 4-1

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Table 4-1. Troubleshooting

Symptom LEDs Check

No power at hub Power off Check the power cord connections and make sure the ends are

properly plugged into the hub and the wall outlet.

In a stack, no power
at hub but Terminator
LED is on

Terminator LED on
a middle hub in a
stack is on

Port connection not
functioning

Port connection not
functioning

Power off
Terminator on

Terminator on Cascade cable is not connected properly.

Link off or
intermittent

Link off Make sure the network adapter cards/network interface cards

Check the power cord. In a stack, the termination circuitry gets
power from the cascade cable. If one hub in the stack has a faulty
power cord or the cord is unplugged, the Terminator LED remains
on and the remaining hubs in the stack operate normally.

Check for proper connection.

If the Link LED is not lit on an active port, check the attached
device and make sure it is powered on and that there is a proper
connection at that end.

If the Link LED is intermittent, check the port termination at both
the hub and device ends. Check the crimp on the RJ-45
connectors. In a Fast Ethernet environment, the quality of the
crimp on the connector is important. It is also important that only
Category 5 cabling be used and that it is certified for 100 Mbps
operation.

Check that the length of the UTP cable from the hub to the device
does not exceed 328 feet (100 m).

installed in the PC or workstations are in working condition and
that the unit is turned on. Verify that the network adapter cards are
100 Mbps capable and that the 100 Mbps LED and Link LEDs are
on at the network adapter card in the PC or workstation.

If the Link LED is not lit after cabling has been installed, check for
an incorrect cable, miswired cable pairs, or loose connectors.
Ensure that there is power for both the hub and the connected PC
or workstation Ethernet transceiver.

4-2 Troubleshooting

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Table 4-1. Troubleshooting (continued)

Symptom LEDs Check

Collision LED blinking Collision on Collisions are normal on Ethernet networks and occur when two or

more computers transmit data on the network simultaneously.
Computers that caused the collision retry transmission at different
intervals until the transmission succeeds. Excessive collisions can
result when multiple hubs are cascaded and when many
computers are connected on the network. Incorrect cabling,
connectors and wiring techniques are other causes for excessive
collisions.

Problems with Port 8
on the Model FE508 hub
or with Port 16 on the
Model FE516 hub

Check the Normal/Uplink push button on the front panel.
If you are using a straight-through cable connected to an

MDI-wired device, make sure the Normal/Uplink push button is in
the Normal position.

If you are using a straight-through cable connected to an
MDI-X-wired device, make sure the Normal/Uplink push button is
in the Uplink position.

Troubleshooting 4-3

Chapter 5 Network Configuration Examples

This chapter provides an overview of Ethernet technology and the levels of service that are provided
by incorporating NETGEAR Ethernet hubs and switches into your network. Examples are given to
illustrate the function of the hubs and switches in several configurations that provide those different
levels of service to network users.

Ethernet Technology

When 10BASE-T Ethernet was originally introduced, multiple repeaters were often used to build
large networks. To increase the number of connections, repeaters were connected together because
individual repeater port densities were often limited to 12 to 24 ports. As structured wiring systems
were implemented, horizontal wiring from the wiring closet to the tabletop was designed for a
maximum of 328 feet (100 m). Stackable repeaters eliminated the need for collision domains to
extend over multiple repeater hubs.

100BASE-T Fast Ethernet technology maintains the same concepts of the 10BASE-T technology.
Both use the same Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection (CSMA/CD) Media
Access Control (MAC) protocol. Both 100BASE-T and 10BASE-T Ethernet use the same type of
Ethernet frame and error detection mechanisms. They also support the same star topology using
traditional media types, and are managed using the same network management protocols. The most
fundamental difference between the two technologies is that 100BASE-T operates 10 times faster than
the traditional 10BASE-T.

100BASE-T technology was developed to support the new paradigm and, by using switch technology,
can provide for four distinct levels of service. Combining 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, and switching
technology provides:

• 10BASE-T shared bandwidth of 10 Mbps for the group of active users.

• 10BASE-T dedicated bandwidth of 10 Mbps for each user.

• 100BASE-TX shared bandwidth that equals 100 Mbps for the group of active users.

• 100BASE-TX dedicated bandwidth that equals 100 Mbps for each user.

NOTE: When integrating a 10 Mbps and a 100 Mbps network, use all Category 5 cabling
so that connections can freely be switched between 10 and 100 Mbps devices. Also use dual
speed (10/100) Ethernet adapters in all devices so they can be attached to any 10 or 100
Mbps hub or switch.

Network Configuration Examples 5-1

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Configuration Examples

The Model FE508 and Model FE516 hubs are designed to provide flexibility in configuring your
network connections. Each hub can be used as a standalone device or can be used with 10 Mbps
repeaters, switching hubs, or other interconnection devices in various configurations. These
configuration examples show the integration of the hub in network environments of all sizes and
types, whether it is a network of a few workstations connected to a printer or in a segmented network
with multiple users or workgroups and other networking devices.

The following examples are shown in this chapter:

• 100BASE-TX shared repeater

• Building small organizations or remote offices

− Migrating to 100 Mbps operation

− Multiport switch with Fast Ethernet backbone

100BASE-TX Shared Repeater

In this configuration, the Model FE508 and Model FE516 hubs are used in a pure 100 Mbps network.
The Model FE508 and Model FE516 hubs can be used in a standalone network with users attached
directly to the hub, as shown in Figure 5-1. The hub can also be stacked in any combination for a
maximum of 64 (100 Mbps ports in a single collision domain) as shown in Figure 5-1.

Figure 5-1. Standalone and stacked repeater hubs

5-2 Network Configuration Examples

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Building Small Organizations or Remote Offices

The small organization or remote office LAN presents unique considerations when building a
network. It is a good idea to integrate 100BASE-T hubs and switches with 10BASE-T switches. The
integration of both technologies prepares the network for future 100 Mbps operations, yet provides the
necessary 10 Mbps operation for normal users attached to the network.

Migrating to 100 Mbps Operation

One of the more common problems that affect network performance is congestion. In many LAN
environments, the primary problem is access to the server. When many users are connected and
accessing one server on a 10 Mbps link, congestion and collisions occur more frequently, resulting in
less data throughput. Adding a Model FE508 or Model FE516 hub allows power users (for example,
those using CAD applications) to be grouped together in the 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet network,
isolated from the 10 Mbps network users who need occasional server access. By adding a NETGEAR
Model SW502 Ethernet Switch that has one 10 Mbps port and one 100 Mbps port, the existing 10
Mbps users can access the server through the 100 Mbps port on the switch. This configuration
provides transparent communication among 10 Mbps users and 100 Mbps users.

Network Configuration Examples 5-3

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Figure 5-2 illustrates 100 Mbps users connected to a Model FE516 hub accessing a common server,
integrated with the NETGEAR Model SW502 Ethernet Switch and a Model EN516 Ethernet Hub to
form a mixed speed network.

Figure 5-2. Migrating to 100 Mbps operation

5-4 Network Configuration Examples

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Multiport Switch with Fast Ethernet Backbone

If there is continued congestion on the 10 Mbps shared repeater portion of the network, the Model
SW507 Ethernet Switch with six 10 Mbps ports and one 100 Mbps port can be used to segment each
of the hub’s 10 Mbps traffic. By adding the switch, overall bandwidth and throughput are increased
because the traffic from one 10 Mbps segment passes to the other segment only when addressing a
node on one of the other segments. Figure 5-3 illustrates this example.

Figure 5-3. Multiport switch with Fast Ethernet backbone

Network Configuration Examples 5-5

Appendix A Technical Specifications

This appendix provides technical specifications for the NETGEAR Model FE508 and Model FE516
Fast Ethernet hubs.

General Specifications

Network Protocol and Standards Compatibility

IEEE 802.3u 100BASE-TX, Fast Ethernet
IEEE 802.3 CSMA/CD

Data Rate

100 Mbps with 4B5B encoding and MLT-3 physical interface for 100BASE-TX

Interface

RJ-45 connector for 100BASE-T Ethernet interface

Electrical Specifications

Power consumption 65 W (Model FE508 hub)

35 W (Model FE516 hub)

Physical Specifications

Dimensions:

Width 13.0 inches (33 cm)
Height 1.7 inches (4.3 cm)
Depth 8.0 inches (20.3 cm)

Weight: 4.87 lb (2.21 kg) (Model FE508 hub)

5.35 lb (2.43 kg) (Model FE516 hub)

Technical Specifications A-1

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Environmental Specifications

Operating temperature: 0° C to 40° C (32° F to 104° F)
Storage temperature: –25° to 70° C (–13° F to 158° F)
Operating humidity: 80% maximum relative humidity, noncondensing
Storage humidity: 95% maximum relative humidity, noncondensing
Operating altitude: 10,000 ft (3,000 m) maximum
Storage altitude: 10,000 ft (3,000 m) maximum

Electromagnetic Emissions

Meets requirements of:
CE mark, commercial
FCC Part 15, Class A
EN 55 022 (CISPR 22), Class A
VCCI Class 1 ITE

Electromagnetic Susceptibility

CE mark commercial
Electrostatic discharge (ESD): IEC 801-2, Level 2/3/4
Radiated electromagnetic field: IEC 801-3, Level 2
Electrical fast transient/burst: IEC 801-4, Level 2
Electrical surge: IEC 801-5, Level 2

Safety Agency Approvals

CE mark commercial
UL listed (UL 1950)
CSA certified (CSA 22.2 #950)
TUV licensed (EN 60 950)

A-2 Technical Specifications

Appendix B Connector Pin Assignments

This appendix provides information on the RJ-45 connectors that are used for the Model FE508 and
Model FE516 Fast Ethernet hubs.

RJ-45 Connector

The RJ-45 connector is used to connect stations, hubs, and switches through unshielded twisted-pair
cable and supports 100 Mbps data transmission. The RJ-45 connector accepts two- or four-pair
Category 5 UTP cable. Figure B-1 illustrates the RJ-45 connector used for port connections on hubs.
Table B-1 provides the pin out information for the Normal (MDI-X) RJ-45 connector and the pin out
information for the Uplink (MDI) port (Port 8 on the Model FE508 and Port 16 on the Model FE516)
RJ-45 connector.

Figure B-1. RJ-45 connector

Table B-1. RJ-45 connector pin assignments

Pin Normal (MDI-X) Uplink (MDI) *

1 Input Receive Data + Output Transmit Data +
2 Input Receive Data – Output Transmit Data –
3 Output Transmit Data + Input Receive Data +
6 Output Transmit Data – Input Receive Data –
4,5,7,8 Not Used Not Used

* Applicable to Port 8 on the Model FE508 hub and Port 16 on the Model FE516 hub.

Connector Pin Assignments B-1

Appendix C Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines

This appendix discusses the Fast Ethernet technology and the cable specifications and guidelines for
Category 5 UTP (unshielded twisted-pair) cabling.

Fast Ethernet

Fast Ethernet is conventional Ethernet but faster. Fast Ethernet, or 100BASE-T, operates at
100 megabits per second (Mbps) instead of 10 Mbps. 100BASE-T technology uses the same frame
format and length as Ethernet and does not require changes to the upper-layer protocols, applications,
or networking software that run on LAN workstations. You can switch and route data from 10 Mbps
to 100 Mbps without protocol translation and its associated delays. Fast Ethernet is based on the
proven CSMA/CD Media Access Control (MAC) protocol.

The most popular cabling scheme in an Ethernet network today is star-wired topology, where the hub
is in a central wiring closet and individual cables run out to each tabletop device. This is the same
topology used by Fast Ethernet although the network diameter is smaller given the increase in packet
speed.

Fast Ethernet Cabling

In a Fast Ethernet network, certain rules and regulations must be followed. This section discusses the
following aspects of cabling:

• Cable guidelines

• Cable lengths within a network

• Category 5 specifications

• Cross-over and straight-through cables

• Patch panels

• Near-end crosstalk

Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines C-1

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Cable Guidelines

Fast Ethernet uses unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable, as specified in the IEEE 802.3u standard for
100BASE-T. The specification recommends Category 5 UTP cable consisting of either two-pair or
four-pair of twisted insulated copper conductors bound in a single plastic sheath. Category 5 cable is
certified up to 100 MHz bandwidth. 100BASE-TX operation uses one pair of wires for transmission
and the other pair for collision detection and receive.

When installing Category 5 UTP cabling, use the following guidelines to ensure that your cables
perform to the following specifications:

• Certification. Make sure that your Category 5 UTP cable has completed the Underwriters

Laboratories (UL) or Electronic Testing Laboratories (ETL) certification process.

• Termination method. To minimize crosstalk noise, maintain the twist ratio of the cable up to the

point of termination; untwist at any RJ-45 connector or patch panel should not exceed 0.5 inch
(1.5 cm).

Cable Lengths

Category 5 distributed cable that meets ANSI/EIA/TIA-568-A building wiring standards can be a
maximum of 328 feet (100 m) in length, divided as follows:

• 20 feet (6 m) between the hub and the patch panel (if used)

• 295 feet (90 m) from the wiring closet to the wall outlet

• 10 feet (3 m) from the wall outlet to the desktop device

The patch panel and other connecting hardware must meet the requirements for 100 Mbps operation
(Category 5). Workmanship quality is a must. Only 0.5 inch (1.5 cm) of untwist in the wire pair is
allowed at any termination point.

C-2 Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Cable Specifications

Table C-1 lists the electrical requirements of the Category 5 cable.

Table C-1. Electrical requirements of Category 5 cables

Specification Category 5

Number of pairs Two or Four
Impedance 100 Ω ± 15%
Mutual capacitance at 1 KHz
Maximum attenuation

(dB per 100 m, at 20

NEXT loss (dB minimum) at 16 MHz: 44

° C)

5.6 nF per 100 m
at 16 MHz: 8.2
at 31 MHz: 11.7
at 100 MHz: 22

at 31 MHz: 39
at 100 MHz: 32

Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines C-3

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Twisted-pair Cables

For two devices to communicate, the transmitter of each device must be connected to the receiver of
the other device. The cross-over function is usually implemented internally as part of the circuitry in
the device. Some repeaters and switch ports are media-dependent interfaces with cross-over ports,
referred to as MDI-X or Normal ports. Computers and workstation adapter cards are usually media­dependent interface ports, referred to as MDI or Uplink ports. Refer to the installation instructions in
Chapter 3, “Installation,” for appropriate cable use and connection.

Figure C-1 illustrates straight-through twisted-pair cable connections and Figure C-2 illustrates cross­over twisted-pair cable connections.

Figure C-1. Straight-through twisted-pair cable

Figure C-2. Cross-over twisted-pair cable

C-4 Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

Patch Panels and Cables

If you are using patch panels, be sure that they meet the 100BASE-T requirements. NETGEAR
recommends Category 5 for all patch cables and work area cables to ensure your UTP patch cable
rating meets or exceeds the distribution cable rating.

To wire patch panels, you need two UTP patch cables with male RJ-45 connectors at each end, as
shown in Figure C-3.

Figure C-3. UTP patch cable with male RJ-45 connectors at each end

RJ-45 Connector

The IEC 603-7 8-pin modular connector, commonly called RJ-45, is used to connect stations, hubs,
and switches to unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable. The RJ-45 connector accepts 4-pair Category 5
UTP. In a Fast Ethernet network, it is important that all 100BASE-T certified Category 5 cabling use
Category 5 RJ-45 connectors. It is common practice to use Category 5 wire with Category 3
connectors. However, 100 Mbps operation is compromised when the mixed configuration is used.

Near End Crosstalk (NEXT) Loss

A characteristic of UTP cable that limits operational distances is Near End Crosstalk (NEXT) loss.
NEXT noise is the amount of power that “leaks” from the near-end transmitter into the near-end
receiver. Because cable attenuation reduces the signal received from the far end, a large NEXT noise
power interferes with the attenuated signal.

Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines C-5

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

The NEXT loss between two particular pairs within a cable is a function of the twist per unit length
for each pair. The higher the twist rate, the higher the NEXT loss value and the lower the NEXT
noise. One method of improving NEXT loss and achieving more reliable system performance is to
select the cable pairs within the cable that have the highest twist rate (highest NEXT loss).

Selecting a cabling system that uses components (such as connectors and cross-connect panels) that
complements the cable ensures NEXT noise is minimized. If the choice of cable is available to the
network designer (for example, new cable can be installed rather than using already installed cable),
NETGEAR recommends using Category 5 cables to provide maximum configuration flexibility.

C-6 Fast Ethernet and Cabling Guidelines

Index

—B—

backbone

Fast Ethernet, 5-5

—C—

cable connections

cross-over, C-4
straight-through, C-4

cable lengths

Category 5, C-2

cable specifications

Category 5, C-3

cables

and patch panels, C-5
cascade, 3-6, 3-7
guidelines, C-2
specifications, C-3
twisted-pair, C-4
UTP, 4-2

cabling

Category 5, C-2

Fast Ethernet, C-1
cascade cable, 3-6
Category 3 connectors

using, C-5
Category 5 cabling, C-2
Category 5 UTP cable, 3-3, C-1
Category 5 UTP wiring, 2-3
chassis, 2-1
configuration examples, 5-2

migration to 100 Mbps, 5-3

multiport switch, 5-5

shared repeater, 5-2

connectors

cascade, 2-6
Cascade Down, 3-7
Cascade Up, 3-7

RJ-45, 2-3, 1, 5
contents, package, 3-2
customer support, iii

—E—

Ethernet technology, 5-1

—F—

fans, 2-7
Fast Ethernet technology, 5-1, 5-5, C-1
features, 1-2
front panel, 2-1

Model FE508 hub, 2-1

Model FE516 hub, 2-2

—H—

hub stacking, 2-6
humidity requirements, 3-1

—I—

installation

guidelines, 3-3

in a rack, 3-4

of multiple hubs, 3-7

on a flat surface, 3-3

verifying, 3-9

Index-1

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

port connection troubleshooting, 4-2

—L—

LED

Collision, 2-2, 4-3
conditions at power on, 4-1
Data, 2-2, 3-9
descriptions, 2-3
display, 2-2
Link, 2-2, 2-3, 3-9, 4-1, 4-2
Power, 2-2, 3-9, 4-1, 4-2
RX, 2-2, 2-3
Terminator, 2-7, 3-8, 3-9, 4-1, 4-2

—M—

Media Access Control (MAC) protocol, C-1
migration to 100 Mbps operation, 1-1, 5-3

ports

RJ-45, 2-3

power

AC, 2-5, 2-7

troubleshooting lack of, 4-2
power cord, 3-2
power receptacle, 2-7

—R—

rear panel, 2-5
repeater

shared, 5-2
repeaters, 5-1
RJ-45 connector, 2-3, 1, C-5

pin assignments, B-1
RJ-45 ports, 2-3

—N—

Near End Crosstalk (NEXT) Loss, C-5
network

small organization, 5-3
Normal wiring, 2-4
Normal/Uplink push button, 1-2, 2-4, 4-3

—O—

operating environment, 3-1
ordering publications, iii
owner registration card, 3-2

—P—

package contents, 3-2
pads, self-adhesive, 3-3
pairing, 3-3
panel

front, 2-1

rear, 2-5, 3-7
pin assignments

RJ-45 connector, B-1

—S—

service access, 3-1
site preparation, 3-1
specifications

data rate, A-1
electrical, A-1
electromagnetic, A-2
EN 55 022 Declaration of Conformance, ii
environmental, A-2
FCC Statement, ii
interface, A-1
network protocol, A-1
physical, A-1
Safety Agency approvals, A-2

VCCI Statement, iii
stacking hubs, 3-6
switch

NETGEAR Ethernet, 5-3

Index-2

—T—

temperature requirements, 3-1
termination, 3-3, 2
Terminator LED, 2-7
tools required for installation, 3-2
topology

star-wired, C-1

troubleshooting table, 4-2

Installation Guide for the Model FE508 and Model FE516 Fast Ethernet Hubs

—U—

Uplink wiring, 2-4
user requirements, 1-1

—V—

ventilation requirements, 3-1

—W—

World Wide Web, iii

Index-3