MRV Communications MR2228-S2C User Manual download pdf (Page 12)

Chapter 2: Network Planning

Introduction to Switching

A network switch allows simultaneous transmission of multiple packets via

non-crossbar switching. This means that it can partition a network more efficiently

than bridges or routers. The switch has, therefore, been recognized as one of the

most important building blocks for today’s networking technology.

When performance bottlenecks are caused by congestion at the network access

point (such as the network card for a high-volume file server), the device

experiencing congestion (server, power user, or hub) can be attached directly to a

switched port. And, by using full-duplex mode, the bandwidth of the dedicated

segment can be doubled to maximize throughput.

When networks are based on repeater (hub) technology, the maximum distance

between end stations is limited. For Ethernet, there may be up to four hubs

between any pair of stations; for Fast Ethernet, the maximum is two. This is

known as the hop count. However, a switch turns the hop count back to zero. So

subdividing the network into smaller and more manageable segments, and linking

them to the larger network by means of a switch, removes this limitation. A switch

can be easily configured in any Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, or Gigabit Ethernet

network to significantly boost bandwidth while using conventional cabling and

network cards.

Application Examples

The MR2228-S2C is not only designed to segment your network, but also to

provide a wide range of options in setting up network connections. Some typical

applications are described below.

Collapsed Backbone

The MR2228-S2C is an excellent choice for mixed Ethernet and Fast Ethernet

installations where significant growth is expected in the near future. You can

easily build on this basic configuration, adding direct full-duplex connections to

workstations or servers. When the time comes for further expansion, just connect

to another hub or switch using one of the Fast Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet ports

built into the front panel, or using a Gigabit Ethernet port on a plug-in SFP

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MRV Communications MR2228-S2C User Manual Page 12