Cabling Devices
Media Requirements
Incorrect cabling is often the cause of network performance problems. Read
the next two pages if you're unsure of the requirements.
100Base-TX
The 100Base-TX Fast Ethernet specification requires that you use
CAT 5 UTP cabling to operate at 100Mbps. You're limited to 100 meters
between any two devices. If you use lower grade cabling (CAT 3 or CAT 4),
you may get a connection, but will soon experience data loss or slow
performance.
10Base-T
The 10Base-T Ethernet specification allows you to use CAT 3, CAT 4, or
CAT 5 UTP cabling. You're limited to 100 meters between any two devices.
Straight-through vs. Crossover Cables
Switch ports are wired MDI-X, so use a straight-through cable when
connecting to a workstation or server (network adapter cards are wired
MDI). For direct connection to another MDI-X port, use the daisy-chain
port or a crossover cable. Here are the pin arrangements for the switch's
Ethernet port and the typical RJ-45 connector.
Pin 1
Pin 8
8
1
Ethernet Port
Clip
RJ-45 Connector
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