3Com Network Card 5102M FBP User Manual

®
ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB  
Module Installation and  
Operation Guide  
Document Number 17-00328-5  
Printed February 1996  
Model Number: 510M-FBP  
5102M-FBP  
5104M-FB1  
3Com Corporation  
118 Turnpike Road  
Southborough, MA 01772-1886  
U.S.A.  
(508) 460-8900  
FAX (508) 460-8950  
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Contents  
How to Use This Guide  
Audience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii  
Structure of This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiv  
Document Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xv  
Related Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvi  
3Com Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvi  
Reference Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xvii  
Chapter 1 — Introduction  
10BASE-FB Module Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2  
10BASE-FB Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-4  
Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-4  
Compatibility With Other Ethernet Fiber Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6  
Chapter 2 — Designing and Expanding the Network  
Understanding the General Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2  
Rules for Configuring a Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2  
Equivalent Fiber Distances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5  
Determining Maximum Fiber Link Distances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6  
Calculating Maximum Link Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7  
Determining Link Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7  
Attenuation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10  
Splicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10  
Optical Fiber Loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11  
Maximum Link Distance Calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-12  
Choosing a Network Backbone Cabling Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-14  
Star Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-15  
Serial Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-16  
10BASE-FB Module Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-17  
Fiber Backbone, Fiber-to-the-Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-17  
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Network Distance Calculation Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-19  
Fiber Backbone, Unshielded Twisted Pair to-the-Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-22  
Fiber Backbone, Coaxial Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-24  
Fault-Tolerant Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-26  
Configuring Ports for Fault Tolerance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-26  
Setting Redundancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-27  
Implementing Total Backbone Fault Tolerance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-29  
Chapter 3 — Installing and Operating the Module  
Precautionary Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2  
Unpacking Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3  
Quick Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4  
Setting the Dip Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5  
Setting Dip Switch S1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-7  
Setting Dip Switch S2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-9  
Installing the Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-10  
Configuring the Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-13  
Enabling Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14  
Selecting a Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-15  
Enabling Port Redundancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-16  
Enabling Low Light Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-17  
Enabling Optical Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-17  
Saving Module Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-18  
Showing Module Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-18  
Monitoring the Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-19  
Verifying LED and Network Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-22  
Chapter 4 — Troubleshooting  
Troubleshooting Using the Port Activity LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2  
Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3  
Technical Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7  
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Appendix A — Specifications  
General Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2  
Optical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3  
Transmitter Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3  
Receiver Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4  
Supported Fiber Optic Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4  
Fiber Optic Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5  
Power Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5  
Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-6  
Mechanical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-6  
3Com 10BASE-FB Network Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-6  
10BASE-FB Cable and Connector Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-7  
10BASE-FB Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-7  
10BASE-FB Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-8  
Connecting Fiber Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-8  
Appendix B — Technical Support  
On-line Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-1  
Email Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-2  
World Wide Web Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-2  
Support from Your Network Supplier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-2  
Support from 3Com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-3  
Returning Products for Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-4  
Accessing the 3Com MIB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-4  
3Com Technical Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B-5  
Index  
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Figures  
Figure 1-1.  
10BASE-FB Module Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5  
1700 Meter Fiber Link With Mechanical Splice . . . . . . . . .2-12  
2000 Meter Fiber Link Through Two Patch Panels . . . . . . .2-13  
Star-Wiring Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-15  
Serial Configuration Using 10BASE-FB Modules . . . . . . . . .2-16  
All-Fiber Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-18  
Network With 3 Concentrators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-19  
Network Configured With 8 Concentrators . . . . . . . . . . . .2-20  
Sample Configuration Distance Calculation . . . . . . . . . . . .2-23  
Figure 2-1.  
Figure 2-2.  
Figure 2-3.  
Figure 2-4.  
Figure 2-5.  
Figure 2-6.  
Figure 2-7.  
Figure 2-8.  
Figure 2-9.  
Thin Ethernet Segment Connected to an ONline  
10BASE-FB Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-24  
Figure 2-10.  
Figure 2-11.  
Figure 2-12.  
Figure 3-1.  
Figure 3-2.  
Figure 3-3.  
Figure 3-4.  
Redundant Fiber Backbone Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-28  
Total Backbone Fault-Tolerant Configuration . . . . . . . . . . .2-30  
Fiber Network With 3 Concentrators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-31  
10BASE-FB Module Dip Switch Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-6  
Installing the 10BASE-FB Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-11  
10BASE-FB Module Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-12  
10BASE-FB Port-Switching Module Faceplate and  
ONline System Concentrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-20  
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Tables  
Table 1-1.  
10BASE-FB Module Compatibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6  
Basic Network Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2  
Equivalent Fiber Distances of LAN Products . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5  
Table 2-1.  
Table 2-2.  
Table 2-3.  
ONline 10BASE-FB Module Optical Power Budget:  
Normal Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8  
Table 2-4.  
ONline 10BASE-FB Module Optical Power Budget:  
High Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9  
Table 2-5.  
Table 2-6.  
Table 2-7.  
Table 2-8.  
Table 3-1.  
Table 3-2.  
Table 3-3.  
Table 3-4.  
Table 3-5.  
Table 3-6.  
Table 4-1.  
Table 4-2.  
10BASE-FB Optical Power Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9  
Connector and Splice Insertion Loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11  
Typical Fiber Loss Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11  
Fiber Equivalent Distances Between Transceivers . . . . . . . .2-21  
Quick Installation Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4  
Dip Switch S1 Settings for Switches 1 and 2 . . . . . . . . . . . .3-7  
Dip Switch S1 Settings for Switches 3 to 10. . . . . . . . . . . . .3-8  
Dip Switch S2 Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-9  
Interpreting the 10BASE-FB Module LEDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-21  
Network Check Codes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-22  
Troubleshooting Using the Port Activity LEDs. . . . . . . . . . . .4-2  
Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs. . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3  
ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation and Operation Guide xi  
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How to Use This Guide  
This guide is designed to help you understand the features, indicators, and  
installation procedures for the:  
3Com ONline™ Ethernet Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Modules (Model  
Numbers 5102M-FBP and 5104M-FBP)  
3Com ONline™ Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module (Model Number  
5104M-FB1)  
This guide also contains information on troubleshooting and diagnostics for  
operation verification. In addition, a configuration section provides you  
with network configuration information.  
Audience  
This guide contains instructions for installing the modules and maintaining  
normal operation. It is intended for the following people at your site:  
Hardware installer  
System/Network manager  
ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation and Operation Guide xiii  
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Structure of This Guide  
This guide contains the following chapters:  
Chapter 1, Introduction Introduces the principal features of the ONline  
Ethernet Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Modules and the ONline Ethernet  
10BASE-FB Module.  
Chapter 2, Designing and Expanding the Netw ork Contains  
configuration information to help you integrate the 10BASE-FB Modules  
into your Ethernet network.  
Chapter 3, Installing and Operating the Module Provides illustrated  
procedures for installing the 10BASE-FB Modules into the ONline System  
Concentrator and configuring them for operation. This chapter also  
provides a front panel view of the 10BASE-FB Modules showing ports, LEDs,  
and dip switches.  
Chapter 4, Troubleshooting Provides help in isolating and correcting  
problems that could arise during the installation process and during normal  
operation.  
Appendix A, Specifications Describes product dimensions, power  
requirements, and other specifications for the modules.  
Appendix B, Technical Support Lists the various methods for  
contacting the 3Com technical support organization and for accessing  
other product support services.  
Index Contains an alphabetical list of important terms and features  
referenced throughout this guide.  
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Document Conventions  
The following document conventions are used in this manuall:  
Convention  
Courier text  
Indicates  
User input  
Example  
In the Agent Information Form,  
enter MISin the New Contact  
field.  
System output  
Path names  
After pressing the Apply  
button, the system displays  
the message  
Transmitting data.  
Bold command  
string  
Before you begin, read the  
readme.txt file located in  
/ usr/ snm/ agents.  
Text in angled  
brackets  
User-substituted In the command above,  
identifiers  
substitute <rem_name> with  
the name of the remote  
machine.  
Capitalized text in  
plain brackets  
Keyboard entry Type your password and press  
by the user  
[ENTER].  
Italics  
Text emphasis,  
Ensure that you press the Apply  
document titles button after you add the new  
search parameters.  
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Convention  
Note:  
Indicates  
Example  
A Note. The  
information is  
important  
Note: Use STP lobe  
cables for your system.  
Caution: A Caution. A  
condition may  
damage  
Caution: Do not put  
your installation  
diskettes on a  
software or  
hardware  
magnetic surface.  
This may damage the  
diskettes.  
Warning: A Warning. A  
condition may  
Warning: Wear eye  
protection when  
performing these  
maintenance  
threaten  
personal safety  
procedures.  
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:  
17-Slot ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation  
Guide Explains how to install, operate, and manage the 3Com ONline  
17-Slot System Concentrator (Models 5017C-LS and 5017C with load  
sharing).  
xvi ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation and Operation Guide  
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6-Slot ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation  
Guide Explains how to install, operate, and manage the 3Com ONline  
6-Slot System Concentrator.  
ONline Ethernet Management Module Installation and Operation Guide –  
Describes how to install the ONline Ethernet Management Module in the  
ONline System Concentrator and explains the LEDs on the module  
faceplate. This guide also provides instructions for connecting a terminal to  
the module and describes the management commands necessary to  
perform management tasks on the concentrator and on remote devices.  
ONline Management Commands Guide – Provides an alphabetized  
reference resource describing all ONline management commands.  
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.  
ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation and Operation Guide xvii  
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Introduction  
1
This chapter introduces you to the:  
3Com ONline™ Ethernet Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Modules  
(5102M-FBP and 5104M-FBP)  
3Com ONline™ Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module (5104M-FB1)  
The modules are referred throughout this guide as the 10BASE-FB Modules.  
Information in this guide refers to all three 10BASE-FB Modules listed above.  
Differences between the modules are noted where applicable.  
This chapter contains the following sections:  
10BASE-FB Module Descriptions  
10BASE-FB Compliance  
10BASE-FB Theory of Operation  
Compatibility With Other Ethernet Fiber Products  
Introduction 1 - 1  
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10BASE-FB Module Descriptions  
The ONline Ethernet Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Module is a 2- or 4-port,  
Ethernet fiber module designed for 3Com ONline System Concentrators.  
The ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module is a 4-port, Ethernet fiber module  
also designed for 3Com ONline System Concentrators.  
The ONline Ethernet Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Module (Model Number  
5104M-FBP) is functionally identical to the ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB  
Module (Model Number 5104M-FB1) except for the Port-Switching  
Module's ability to set each port to an independent backplane network in  
the concentrator.  
The 5104M-FB1 is module-switching only. You can update the 10BASE-FB  
Module to a port-switching module by installing the ONline Ethernet  
10BASE-FB Upgrade Kit.  
The 10BASE-FB Modules provide:  
Fiber backbone connectivity for Ethernet local area networks  
Direct fiber to-the-desk connectivity  
You can directly connect the 10BASE-FB Modules to any other ONline fiber  
module as well as all of the products in the 3Com 10BASE-FB family,  
including the:  
3Com 10BASE-FB Star Coupler  
3Com 10BASE-FB Fiber Transceiver  
3Com Fault-Tolerant 10BASE-FB Transceiver  
The 10BASE-FB Modules:  
Provide up to 4.0 kilometers distance between any two concentrators  
Support network diameters up to 4.2 kilometers  
Contain built-in link redundancy for fault tolerance  
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Include diagnostics for troubleshooting  
Provide 10 Mbps performance with 100 percent collision detection  
using CSMA/CD  
Support 50, 62.5, 85, and 100 µm fiber cable  
Are shipped with either ST, SMA, or FC-type connectors  
Other benefits of the 10BASE-FB Modules include:  
3Com TriChannel Architecture - The 10BASE-FB Modules operate in  
an ONline System Concentrator with all ONline modules, including  
Token Ring and FDDI.  
Slot Independence - You can install modules into any available slot  
in the ONline Concentrator. This flexibility eliminates the need to shut  
down the network and rearrange the existing configuration of the  
concentrator when you install new modules into the concentrator.  
“Hot Sw ap” Capability - You can install or remove modules from  
the ONline System Concentrator when it is powered up without  
affecting the operation of any other modules in the concentrator.  
Independent Netw orks - You can assign each module to any of  
three independent Ethernet networks.  
Management Support - You can manage the module through the  
3Com ONdemand™ Network Control System. You may also manage  
the 10BASE-FB modules using terminal management through an  
ONline network management module.  
Compliance - The 10BASE-FB Modules comply with the IEEE  
10BASE-FB fiber standard to provide interoperability with other  
standards-based products.  
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10BASE-FB Compliance  
The ONline Ethernet Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Modules and the ONline  
Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module are fully compliant with the IEEE 10BASE-FB  
fiber standard. The IEEE ratification of the 10BASE-FB standard validates  
synchronous fiber Ethernet as the choice for backbone links. Synchronous  
technology provides robust transmission for fiber Ethernet backbones.  
Compliance with the 10BASE-FB standard allows 3Com fiber modules to be  
compatible with:  
Industry 10BASE-FB-compliant products  
Existing 3Com 10BASE-FB technology  
3Com 10BASE-FB Modules implement Ethernet/IEEE 802.3 physical layer  
functionality on a fiber optic medium. Full interconnection of all devices  
that comply with Ethernet V2.0 or IEEE 802.3 specifications are provided,  
including:  
Minicomputers  
Engineering workstations  
PC networking servers  
Bridges  
Theory of Operation  
The 10BASE-FB Modules serve mainly as network backbone links. Network  
backbone links connect concentrators together. You may also use the  
10BASE-FB Modules to connect directly to devices using the:  
3Com 5101T-FB Transceiver  
3Com 5102T-FBFT Fault-Tolerant Transceiver  
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Figure 1-1 illustrates a configuration using fiber transceivers and the  
10BASE-FB Modules to connect concentrators and devices  
.
Figure 1-1. 10BASE-FB Module Connections  
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Compatibility With Other Ethernet Fiber Products  
The 10BASE-FB Modules are compatible with the 3Com products outlined in  
Table 1-1.  
Table 1-1. 10BASE-FB Module Compatibility  
3Com Product  
10BASE-FB Star Coupler  
Part Number  
9308S-FB  
10BASE-FB Transceiver  
5101T-FB  
Fault-Tolerant 10BASE-FB Transceiver  
5102T-FBFT  
From the backplane interface, you can also connect the 10BASE-FB Modules  
to other Ethernet modules on the same network.  
Caution: The 10BASE-FB Modules are not compatible with the  
ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FL Module (Model Number  
5104M-FL1). The 4-port10BASE-FL Module faceplate is  
similar to the 10BASE-FB Modules, but the two modules  
cannot communicate.  
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Designing and  
Expanding the Network  
2
This chapter contains configuration information to help you design your  
network. It describes how to configure networks using the ONline System  
Concentrator and the ONline 10BASE-FB Modules. It also provides  
examples of network cabling structures and Ethernet network cabling  
solutions.  
This chapter contains the following sections:  
Understanding the General Rules  
Determining Maximum Fiber Link Distances  
Choosing a Network Backbone Cabling Structure  
10BASE-FB Module Configurations  
Fault-Tolerant Configurations  
Note: To ensure proper operation of your network, install all  
equipment using only approved cables. Refer to Appendix  
A for information on cable requirements.  
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Understanding the General Rules  
This section describes general rules for configuring an Ethernet network  
using fiber as the backbone medium. It also provides rules to ensure that  
your network configuration conforms to distance limitations imposed by  
Ethernet and networking equipment. Use these guidelines for building  
your network.  
Refer to the sections that follow for specific rules for:  
Determining maximum 10BASE-FB fiber link distances  
Connecting various horizontal media types (10BASE-FB, twisted pair)  
to a 10BASE-FB backbone  
Examples of recommended fault-tolerant configurations  
Rules for Configuring a Network  
This section outlines the network rules and recommendations for building  
an Ethernet network. For more hardware-specific information on the  
10BASE-FB, refer to Appendix A.  
Table 2-1. Basic Netw ork Rules  
Rule  
Definition  
Recommendations/ Notes  
1
Use 10BASE-FB as the  
backbone medium.  
Use 62.5 micron cable to  
conform with the IEEE 10BASE-F  
and ANSI FDDI standards.  
Use ST-type connectors.  
2
Wire the backbone in a  
star topology to isolate  
faults.  
Lay extra fiber cables. The extra  
cost is small and you will need  
them as your network grows.  
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Table 2-1. Basic Netw ork Rules (Continued)  
Rule  
Definition  
Recommendations/ Notes  
2
Wire the backbone in a  
star topology to isolate  
faults.  
The star topology conforms to  
FDDI wiring. Run at least two  
fiber strands to each backbone  
connection.  
(con’t)  
3
Do not exceed the  
The 4200 meters is the  
maximum Fiber Ethernet maximum distance between  
network diameter of  
4200 meters of fiber  
cable.  
any two transceivers on the  
network.  
The 4200 meters does not  
include the transceiver cable  
that connects a device with an  
external transceiver.  
Transceiver cable 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  
modes.  
4
Certain LAN products  
on the network shrink  
the maximum Fiber  
Ethernet network  
diameter to less than  
4200 meters.  
Each microsecond delay  
through a device on the  
network shrinks the network  
diameter by approximately 200  
meters of fiber cable. This  
reduction is known as  
equivalent distance. Table 2-2  
lists the equivalent fiber  
distances for 3Com ONline LAN  
products.  
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Table 2-1. Basic Netw ork Rules (Continued)  
Rule  
Definition  
Recommendations/ Notes  
5
Assume that one meter This is a conservative  
of coaxial or twisted  
pair cable is equal to  
one meter of fiber  
cable.  
equivalence. One meter of fiber  
is actually equal to 1.1 meters of  
coaxial. For simplicity, assume  
one meter.  
6
Verify that the  
10BASE-FB link  
In general, on 62.5 cable, use  
up to 4000 meters  
distances do not  
exceed the limits  
imposed by the optical  
power budget.  
point-to-point using the  
10BASE-FB Modules. If you  
have poor quality cable or  
numberous patch panels, you  
may have to sacrifice some  
distance.  
Some older Ethernet fiber optic  
products are less powerful than  
ONline 10BASE-FB Module  
optics. When connecting to  
these products, remember that  
they determine the maximum  
point-to-point distance.  
7
When in doubt, use a  
bridge.  
If you are not certain you have  
exceeded acceptable network  
distances, use a bridge to  
extend the network.  
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Equivalent Fiber Distances  
Equivalent fiber distance is the sum of both the incoming and outgoing  
module port signals. Different products, however, have different  
equivalent distances. Table 2-2 lists the equivalent fiber distance of 3Com  
ONline LAN products.  
Table 2-2. Equivalent Fiber Distances of LAN Products  
Equivalent Fiber  
LAN Product  
Distance (meters)  
ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Modules  
(5104M-FB1, 5102M-FBP, 5104M-FBP)  
190  
Incoming signal to fiber port  
140  
50  
Outgoing signal from fiber port  
ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FL Module (5104M-FL1)  
Incoming signal to fiber port  
560  
330  
230  
585  
420  
165  
585  
Outgoing signal from fiber port  
ONline Ethernet 10BASE-T Module (5108M-TP)  
Incoming signal to TP port  
Outgoing signal from TP port  
ONline Ethernet 50-Pin Module  
(5112M-TPL, 5112M-TPPL)  
Incoming signal to TP port  
420  
165  
585  
420  
165  
Outgoing signal from TP port  
ONline Ethernet 24-Port Module (5124M-TPCL,)  
Incoming signal to TP port  
Outgoing signal from TP port  
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Table 2-2. Equivalent Fiber Distances of LAN Products (Continued)  
Equivalent Fiber  
LAN Product  
Distance (meters)  
ONline Ethernet Repeater Module (5102M-AUIF)  
Incoming signal to AUI port  
800  
600  
200  
900  
450  
450  
0
Outgoing signal from AUI port  
ONline Ethernet BNC Module (5106M-BNC)  
Incoming signal to BNC port  
Outgoing signal from BNC port  
ONline Ethernet Transceiver Module (5103M-AUIM)  
3Com 10BASE-FB Star Coupler (9308S-FB)  
10BASE-FB Star Coupler (9314S)  
IEEE Repeater  
180  
180  
800  
Determining Maximum Fiber Link Distances  
This section describes how to calculate the maximum allowable link  
distances between two fiber ports. To do this, you must know the  
following information:  
10BASE-FB optical power budget  
Fiber cable diameter (for example, 50 micron, 62.5 micron)  
Fiber cable light loss/km (for example, 3 dB loss/km)  
Number of patch panel connections and link splices  
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The following tables assist you in obtaining this information:  
Table 2-3 - Lists the optical power budget for the 10BASE-FB Module  
Table 2-6 - List typical losses for connector and splice insertion loss  
Table 2-7 - Lists typical losses for various fiber cables  
Calculating Maximum Link Distance  
To calculate the maximum link distance allowed:  
1. Determine the optical power budget for the 10BASE-FB  
port (Table 2-3).  
2. Subtract the optical power loss due to patch panels and splices  
(Table 2-6) from the optical power budget for the 10BASE-FB port.  
3. Subtract the dB loss/km rating of the fiber cable (Table 2-7) from the  
remainder of step 2. If the result is greater than 0, the link distance is  
valid.  
4. If the device connecting to the 10BASE-FB Module does not have the  
same optical budget as the 10BASE-FB Module, you must also  
calculate the maximum link distance for the connecting device.  
Determining Link Budget  
To ensure link integrity, you should plan for worst case losses through the  
end-to-end optical connection. The optical power budget represents a  
worst case that assumes the transmitter is transmitting at the low end of its  
range. When possible, 3Com recommends using Normal power.  
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Table 2-3 provides the transmit optical power ranges and required receiver  
optical power budget levels for the 10BASE-FB Modules.  
Table 2-3. ONline 10BASE-FB Module Optical Power Budget:  
Normal Power  
Link  
Link Loss  
Required  
(dB)  
(ONline to  
10BASE-FB)  
Cable  
Size  
Used  
Transmit Receive Optical  
Loss  
Required  
(dB)  
(ONline to  
ONline)  
Power  
Range  
(dBm)  
Power  
Range  
(dBm)  
Pow er  
Budget  
(dB)  
(micron)  
50/125  
NA  
0.20  
-21.5 ±  
-8.0 to  
-30.0  
5.5  
None  
None  
None  
None  
None  
None  
>3.0  
3.0  
62.5/125 -17.0±3.0  
NA  
0.275  
-8.0 to  
-30.0  
10.0  
13.0  
15.5  
85/125  
NA  
0.29  
-14.0 ±  
3.0  
-8.0 to  
-30.0  
100/140 -11.5±3.0  
-8.0 to  
-30.0  
>5.5  
NA  
0.29  
Table 2-4 provides 10BASE-FB Module optical power budget values for high  
power.  
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Table 2-5 provides information on the 10BASE-FB-specific optical power  
budget.  
Table 2-4. ONline 10BASE-FB Module Optical Power Budget:  
High Power  
Link Loss  
Link Loss  
Cable  
Size  
Used  
Required  
(dB)  
Transmit Receive Optical  
Required  
(dB)  
Power  
(dBm)  
Power  
(dBm)  
Power  
(ONline to  
10BASE-F  
B)  
Budget (ONline to  
(dB) ONline)  
(micron)  
50/125  
NA 0.20  
-14.25 ±  
2.25  
-8.0 to 13.5  
-30.0  
None  
>2.0  
62.5/125  
NA  
-10.0 ±  
2.25  
-8.0 to 17.75  
-30.0  
>0.25  
>6.25  
0.275  
85/125  
NA 0.29  
-7.0 ±  
-8.0 to 20.75  
-30.0  
>3.25  
>5.75  
>9.25  
2.25  
100/140  
NA 0.29  
-4.5 ±  
2.25  
-8.0 to 23.25  
-30.0  
>11.75  
Table 2-5. 10BASE-FB Optical Power Budget  
Transmit  
Power  
(dBm)  
Receive  
Power  
(dBm)  
Optical  
Power  
Budget (dB)  
Cable Size Used  
(micron)  
50/125 (NA 0.20)  
-20.0 ± 1.0  
-14.0 to 29.0  
-14.0 to 29.0  
-14.0 to 29.0  
-14.0 to 29.0  
8.0  
62.5/125(NA 0.275) -15.1 ± 1.0  
12.9  
14.9  
16.4  
85/125 (NA 0.29)  
100/140 (NA 0.29)  
-13.1 ± 1.0  
-11.6 ± 1.0  
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Attenuation  
It is possible for receivers to receive too much light when:  
Using 85/125 and 100/140 micron fiber cables  
Ports are close together on a link  
Receivers can also receive too much light on 62.5 micron fiber and High  
power on the 10BASE-FB Modules when:  
Connecting to an 10BASE-FB product (6.25 dB loss required)  
Connecting to another 10BASE-FB Module (.25 dB loss required)  
In these two situations, switch the 10BASE-FB Module to Normal power.  
In all of the cases listed above, some attenuation is required to prevent this  
problem. This attenuation is covered by:  
A moderate link length  
The fiber optic connectors  
Splicing  
Many fiber optic installations employ the use of patch panels to manage  
expansion and topological changes. A typical patch panel consists of a set  
of female to female bulkhead barrel connectors used to connect male fiber  
connectors on both sides. The optical power loss through a patch panel  
therefore includes two connectors and a bulkhead.  
If a fiber optic cable breaks, the break is usually fixed by splicing the broken  
ends together. Use one of the following types of splicing methods:  
Fusion – A fusion splice usually offers lower power loss, but the  
fusion equipment is often bulky and costly.  
Mechanical – A mechanical splice can be conveniently used in the  
field when a fusion splice is not available. If a repair is made, make  
sure that the fiber cable still meets the power loss guidelines.  
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Table 2-6 shows the range of loss and the typical loss as a result of splices.  
Table 2-6. Connector and Splice Insertion Loss  
Typical Loss  
Connector Type  
Range of Loss Per Pair (dB)  
(dB)  
SMA Patch Panel  
1.0 to 3.0  
2.0  
0.5  
ST or FC Patch Panel 0.1 to 0.75  
Splice Type Range of Loss (dB)  
Fusion  
Typical Loss  
(dB)  
0.01 to 0.1  
0.2 to 1.0  
0.05  
0.5  
Mechanical  
Optical Fiber Loss  
Even though fiber optic cable can carry light signals over a long distance,  
optical power loss is a significant factor. Check your cable manufacturer's  
rating of the loss characteristic of your fiber cable to determine the actual  
loss.  
Table 2-7 shows typical power losses in fiber optic cables.  
Table 2-7. Typical Fiber Loss Characteristics  
Typical Loss  
(dB/ km)  
Fiber Type  
Loss (dB/ km)  
3 to 5  
50/125 micron @ 820 nM  
3.75  
3.75  
4.0  
62.5/125 micron @ 820 nM 3 to 5  
85/125 micron @ 820 nM 3 to 6  
100/140 micron @ 820 nM 3 to 6  
5.0  
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Maximum Link Distance Calculation  
The following examples use the information provided in the previous pages  
to calculate the maximum allowable fiber optic link distance between two  
ports.  
Example: 1700 Meter Fiber Link With Mechanical Splice  
In the following example, two ONline concentrators are connected using  
10BASE-FB Module ports.  
Figure 2-1 shows an example of a 1700 meter fiber link with a mechanical  
splice using 62.5/125 fiber cable  
.
Figure 2-1. 1700 Meter Fiber Link With Mechanical Splice  
To calculate the maximum link distance:  
1. Use Table 2-3 to determine the optical power budget for 62.5/125  
cable (10.0 dB).  
2. Use Table 2-6 to determine the worst case loss for a mechanical splice  
(1.0 dB).  
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3. Use Table 2-7 to determine the worst case loss for the 62.5/125 fiber  
cable (1700 meters x 5 dB = 8.5 dB). Add the losses to determine  
total path loss. The total path loss is 9.5 dB. Because the overall  
power budget is 10.0 dB, this leaves .5 dB to spare, so the link can be  
made.  
Ensure you do not overdrive a receiver (that is, the received optical power  
level is not greater than the maximum received sensitivity level of the fiber  
connector). In this case, the maximum possible transmit power (-17 dB +  
3.0) is -14.0 dB (see Table 2-3). The power loss over the link is 9.5 dB. This  
means that the power level of the signal will drop to -23.5 dB by the time it  
reaches the receiver. Because the maximum receiver sensitivity is -8.0 dB,  
there is no overdrive problem.  
Example: 2000 Meter Fiber Link Through Two Patch Panels  
In this example, two ONline concentrators are separated by 2000 meters of  
fiber cable with two patch panels between them  
.
Figure 2-2. 2000 Meter Fiber Link Through Two Patch Panels  
To calculate the maximum link distance:  
1. Use Table 2-3 to determine the optical power budget for 50/ 125  
cable (5.5 dB).  
2. Use Table 2-6 to determine the worst case loss for two ST patch  
panels (1.5 dB).  
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3. Use Table 2-7 to determine the worst case loss for the 50/125 fiber  
cable (2000 meters x 5 dB = 10.0 dB). Add the dB losses to  
determine total path loss. The total path loss is 11.5 dB.  
The 11.5 dB optical loss exceeds the optical power budget of 5.5 dB.  
Therefore the link will not work and the 10BASE-FB Module Port  
Status LED will signal a Low Light condition.  
Thus, you must use High Power mode. When you use High power  
(see Table 2-4), the optical power budget of 13.5 dB is sufficient to  
handle the 11.5 dB path loss.  
Choosing a Network Backbone Cabling Structure  
Because of fiber's long-distance capabilities and immunity to noise, 3Com  
strongly recommends using fiber as the backbone. You can choose  
between two fundamental configuration topologies when connecting your  
network backbone using 10BASE-FB Modules in an ONline System  
Concentrator:  
Star Configuration  
Serial Configuration  
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Star Configuration  
Wire your network in a star configuration using an ONline System  
Concentrator as the central point in the network. Wiring in a star topology  
configuration has two major benefits:  
Faults in the cable plant affect only a piece of the network  
You can easily expand the size of your network.  
Figure 2-3 shows an example of a Star-wired configuration..  
Figure 2-3. Star-Wiring Configuration  
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Serial Configuration  
Use a serial configuration (shown in Figure 2-4) for smaller diameter  
networks that are not expected to grow. Serial configurations reduce the  
overall network diameter by 190 meters for each concentrator in any path)  
.
Figure 2-4. Serial Configuration Using 10BASE-FB Modules  
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10BASE-FB Module Configurations  
The theoretical maximum diameter of an all fiber Ethernet network is  
limited to 4.2 km as defined by the 51.2 µsec slottime that is specified for  
the round trip delay budget set by the IEEE 802.3 CSMA/CD protocol.  
(Thus, point-to-point link distances are limited to a maximum of 4.2 km.)  
This section describes how to define total network size based on the limits  
of IEEE 802.3 collision detection.  
This section describes the following scenarios:  
Fiber Backbone, Fiber-to-the-Desk  
Fiber Backbone, Unshielded Twisted Pair-to-the-Desk  
Fiber Backbone, Coaxial Connection  
Fiber Backbone, Fiber-to-the-Desk  
When designing an all-fiber network (Figure 2-5), keep the following rules  
in mind:  
1. Limit the longest path from one fiber optic transceiver to another to  
4.2 km (2.6 miles).  
2. Each 10BASE-FB Module in a serial path between two transceivers  
reduces the maximum cable distance between the transceivers by  
190 meters (623 feet). The equivalence is:  
140 meters for signals that externally enter a 10BASE-FB Module  
port  
50 meters for signals that internally enter a 10BASE-FB Module  
from the concentrator backplane  
For simplicity, use 190 meters per 10BASE-FB Module in the path when  
calculating fiber equivalent distances.  
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3. AUI cables of up to 50 meters are not included in Rule number 1, thus  
the total network diameter between fiber Ethernet nodes can be 4110  
meters (4200 m - 190 m + 50 m + 50 m = 4110 m) through a single  
concentrator  
.
Figure 2-5. All-Fiber Network  
The Ethernet four-repeater rule limits the number of repeaters between any  
two transceivers to four. In general, this restricts most vendor  
configurations to a maximum of four concentrators connected in series.  
This restriction does not apply to the ONline System Concentrators when  
using ONline 10BASE-FB Modules to connect concentrators. This is because  
the 10BASE-FB Modules use a synchronous (repeaterless) technology.  
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Network Distance Calculation Examples  
The following examples demonstrate how to calculate network distances  
for various all-fiber networks.  
Example: Netw ork With 3 Concentrators  
Figure 2-6 shows a network with 3 concentrators.  
Figure 2-6. Netw ork With 3 Concentrators  
To determine the maximum allowable link distance between Concentrators  
A and C:  
1. Use 4200 m as the maximum network diameter for a pure fiber  
network as defined by the 802.3 specification. (Rule 3).  
2. Subtract the fiber equivalent of the three concentrators with  
10BASE-FB Modules that occur on the path between the two  
transceivers:  
3 * 190 meters = 570 meters (Rule 4)  
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3. Subtract the known amount of fiber cable between the two  
transceivers:  
1 km + 1 km + 1 km = 3 km (Rule 5)  
4. The remainder is the maximum allowable distance of the link  
between Concentrators A and C:  
4200 m - 570 m - 3000 m = 630 meters  
5. Verify that the optical power budget is able to drive all the link  
distances in the example. Because all link distances are only 1 km or  
less, this is not a problem.  
Example: Netw ork with 8 Concentrators  
Figure 2-7 shows a network with eight connected concentrators. Use this  
example to determine if the distances between transceivers are all within  
the 4200 meter maximum network diameter restriction for Ethernet  
networks.  
100m  
500m  
1km  
Conc A  
Conc E  
Conc D  
Conc C  
Transceivers  
500m  
500m  
500m  
400m  
100m  
Conc E  
Conc F  
Conc G  
Transceivers  
100m  
1km  
Transceivers  
Conc H  
100m  
Note: All transceiver connections to concentrators are 100 meters  
Figure 2-7. Netw ork Configured With 8 Concentrators  
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In this example, the path between transceivers attached to Concentrators A  
and G has the greatest fiber equivalent distance (4240 meters), even  
though the link distance is less than the A to H path (3100 meters versus  
3200 meters). Because 4240 meters exceeds the 4200 meter maximum,  
this configuration is illegal and results in improper network operation.  
Because it is not always obvious which path between transceivers has the  
highest fiber equivalent distance, use Table 2-8 to help you determine the  
equivalent distances.  
Table 2-8. Fiber Equivalent Distances Between Transceivers  
Total Fiber  
Equivalent  
Fiber Distance  
of  
Concentrators  
(meters)  
Total  
Fiber  
Equivalent  
Distance  
(meters)  
Link  
Number of  
Concentrators  
Betw een  
Distance  
Betw een  
Transceivers  
(meters)  
Path  
Transceivers  
A - D 2700  
A - H 3200  
A - G 3100  
D - H 1700  
D - G 1600  
G - H 2100  
5
5
6
3
4
4
950  
950  
1140  
570  
760  
760  
3650  
4150  
4240  
2270  
2360  
2860  
Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 21  
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Fiber Backbone, Unshielded Twisted Pair to-the-Desk  
Configuring a network with unshielded twisted pair cabling to-the-desk is  
similar to an all-fiber network because the cabling is star-wired in both  
cases.  
Be aware of the following additional rules for configuring a network:  
The four-repeater rule in Ethernet limits the number of 10BASE-T  
modules between any two transceivers. The path from the TP port to  
the backplane counts as 1/2 of a repeater and the path from the  
backplane to the TP port counts as 1/2 of a repeater. You must add  
a bridge if the path from one transceiver to another exceeds the  
four-repeater rule.  
The equivalent fiber distance for the 10BASE-T Modules is defined in  
“Understanding Network Configuration” in this chapter:  
420 meters for signals that externally enter a 10BASE-T  
Module port  
165 meters for signals that internally enter a 10BASE-T  
Module through the ONline concentrator backplane  
For each pair of 10BASE-T Modules that a signal goes through, there is a  
fiber equivalent distance of 585 meters (420 m + 165 m =585 m). In  
addition, if a signal makes a roundtrip through a 10BASE-T Module, (that is,  
enters a 10BASE-T port externally and exits through another port on the  
same 10BASE-T Module) that counts as 585 meters of fiber equivalent  
distance, and as a full repeater.  
Example: Sample Configuration Distance Calculation  
Use the following example to determine if the 10BASE-T Transceivers in  
Figure are within legal Ethernet limits. Identify the two transceivers that  
are likely to be the greatest fiber equivalent apart in Figure 2-8. In this  
case, they are 10BASE-T Transceivers A and B.  
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Figure 2-8. Sample Configuration Distance Calculation  
To determine if your network configuration is legal:  
1. Use 4200 m as the maximum network diameter for a pure fiber  
network as defined by the 802.3 specification.  
2. Calculate the equivalent distances for each concentrator, and  
subtract the total from 4200 (see figures for details).  
3. Subtract all cable lengths between the two transceivers and if the  
result is greater than zero, the configuration is within legal Ethernet  
limits (Rule 5).  
For the configuration shown in Figure 2-8 to work, ensure the fiber  
equivalent distance between Transceiver A and Transceiver B is less than  
4200 meters. As shown in the calculation, there are still 1510 meters left for  
expansion in this configuration. Therefore, this configuration is legal.  
Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 23  
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Fiber Backbone, Coaxial Connection  
When connecting Thick or Thin Ethernet segments to an ONline network,  
use an:  
ONline Ethernet Bridge Module  
ONline Ethernet Repeater Module  
External bridge or repeater  
If you use a repeater or the ONline Ethernet Repeater Module, remember  
that these products have an equivalent fiber distance of 800 meters.  
Example: Connecting a Thin Ethernet (10BASE2) Segment  
Figure 2-9 shows an example of a Thin Ethernet segment connected to an  
ONline System Concentrator using an IEEE Repeater  
.
Figure 2-9. Thin Ethernet Segment Connected to an ONline  
10BASE-FB Module  
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To determine if the configuration meets Ethernet distance limitations for  
Transceivers A and B:  
1. Use 4200 m as the maximum network diameter for a pure fiber  
network as defined by the 802.3 specification (Rule 3).  
2. Subtract the fiber equivalent distance of 420 m for the signal entering  
the 10BASE-T Module from Transceiver B and 50 meters for the signal  
exiting the 10BASE-FB Module within the same concentrator (Rule 4).  
3. Subtract the fiber equivalent distance of 190 m for the signal  
entering the 10BASE-FB Module in the top concentrator, and exiting a  
different port on the same 10BASE-FB Module.  
4. Subtract the fiber equivalent distance (800 m) of the IEEE Repeater  
(Rule 4).  
Note: In the reverse direction, a signal originating at Transceiver  
A loses 165 m of fiber equivalent distance when it exits the  
10BASE-T Module to which Transceiver B is connected and  
140 meters for the signal entering the 10BASE-FB Module in  
the lower concentrator. Because the overall fiber  
equivalence of the path is greater for signals going from  
Transceiver B to A, the fiber equivalence of this path  
determines whether the link meets the 4200 m Ethernet  
link maximum.  
5. Subtract the sum of intervening cable lengths:  
150 m + 50 m + 200 m + 2000 m + 100 m = 2500 m  
6. The remainder is 4200 m - 420 m - 50 m - 190 m - 800 m - 2500 m =  
240 m.  
Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 25  
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Fault-Tolerant Configurations  
This section contains descriptions of the redundancy features built into the  
ONline 10BASE-FB Modules. You can implement link redundancy between  
concentrators using the port redundancy switch settings on the 10BASE-FB  
Modules or through ONline network management.  
This section contains the following topics:  
Configuring Ports for Fault Tolerance  
Implementing Total Backbone Fault Tolerance  
Configuring Ports for Fault Tolerance  
You can configure the 10BASE-FB Module ports in one of four different  
ways:  
Normal Configuration – Ports 1 through 4 operate as independent  
cable ports.  
Standard Redundant Configuration – In this configuration:  
Port 1 acts as the primary port and port 2 as the backup  
for 1  
Port 3 acts as the primary port and port 4 as the backup  
for 3  
Flexible Redundant Configuration You can arbitrarily assign  
primary and backup ports to any pair of ports. You can configure  
this mode only through the advanced management commands  
provided with EMM V3.0 or greater.  
Normal and Redundant Configuration You can enable  
redundancy between one set of ports and have the remaining two  
ports operate as independent ports.  
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Setting Redundancy  
When you enable redundancy between two ports, the ports are  
automatically enabled.  
Port 1 (or 3) as the primary link, which passes data.  
Port 2 (or 4) as the redundant link, which does not pass data in either  
direction. However, the link is monitored for any failures (the Port  
Status LED indicates any problems).  
For maximum cable plant fault tolerance, connect both the primary and  
backup ports back to the central concentrator (Figure 2-10). This  
configuration allows the backup port to automatically take over if the  
primary link fails  
Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 27  
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Figure 2-10. Redundant Fiber Backbone Configuration  
Note: Always enable redundancy in the lower level concentrators  
(those connecting to the central concentrators in the  
star-wired topology).  
In any redundant link path, only one end can be designated (that is,  
activated) as a redundant port pair (ports 1 and 2 or ports 3 and 4). If you  
enable 10BASE-FB Module ports at both ends as redundant, improper  
operation of the redundant switchover mechanism occurs (see Figure 2-11).  
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If the primary link experiences a local or remote fault (except Low Light):  
The backup link activates within 10 milliseconds  
The primary ports disconnect (that is, they do not pass data to and  
from the concentrator)  
However, primary port diagnostics continue to operate. When the fault  
clears, the primary port is enabled automatically. Once a switchover occurs,  
the redundancy status indicators blink.  
Each redundancy status LED (located beneath the Activity LEDs):  
Is off - If you disable redundancy  
Is on - If you enable redundancy and both ports are operational  
Blinks - If a switchover occurs due to a link failure  
Implementing Total Backbone Fault Tolerance  
You can add a backup ONline System Concentrator to provide total  
backbone tolerance and link redundancy for your backbone network. As  
shown in Figure 2-11, if the primary concentrator or any primary links fail,  
the backup concentrator takes over. In this configuration:  
One port on the 10BASE-FB Module connects to the primary  
concentrator  
The other port connects to the backup concentrator  
You must also have a direct connection between the two concentrators.  
Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 29  
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Figure 2-11. Total Backbone Fault-Tolerant Configuration  
Example: Fiber Netw ork w ith 3 Concentrators and a Fourth  
Concentrator in Full Redundancy Configuration  
In Figure 2-12, three concentrators are active where Concentrator B is a  
redundant concentrator for Concentrator A.  
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.
Figure 2-12. Fiber Network With 3 Concentrators  
In Figure 2-12, the fiber equivalent distance between transceivers attached  
to Concentrators C and D is:  
3 * 190 m + 1000 m + 1000 m + 500 m + 1000 m = 4070 m  
Because this is less than 4200 meters, the configuration is legal.  
In Figure 2-12, if the main link from Concentrator A to Concentrator C  
faults, the signal path (enabled through redundancy) includes Concentrator  
B. By adding Concentrator B, the fiber equivalent distance has become too  
great and the network cannot work because the path between  
Concentrators C and D is C-B-A-D:  
4 * 190 + 1000 m + 2000 m + 500 m + 500 m + 1000 m = 5760 m  
Because the sum is greater than 4200 meters, this configuration is not  
legal. When designing a redundant network, be sure to consider the  
backup route distance.  
Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 31  
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Installing and  
Operating the Module  
3
This chapter describes the installation procedures for the:  
ONline Ethernet Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Module  
ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module  
For your convenience, a quick reference installation chart is included. This  
chapter includes the following sections:  
Precautionary Procedures  
Unpacking Procedures  
Quick Installation  
Setting the Dip Switches  
Installing the Module  
Configuring the Module  
Showing Module Configuration  
Monitoring the Front Panel  
Verifying the LEDs and Network Assignments  
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Note: Read the precautionary procedures before unpacking the  
module.  
Precautionary Procedures  
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage static-sensitive devices on circuit  
boards. Follow these precautions when you handle the 10BASE-FB  
Modules:  
Do not remove the board from its anti-static shielding bag until you  
are ready to inspect it.  
Handle the board by the faceplate.  
Use proper grounding techniques when you install a 10BASE-FB  
Module. These techniques include:  
Using a foot strap and grounded mat or wearing a  
grounded static discharge wrist strap.  
Touching the grounded rack or other source of ground  
just before you handle a 10BASE-FB Module.  
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Unpacking Procedures  
When unpacking your 10BASE-FB Module:  
1. Verify that the 10BASE-FB Module is the correct model by matching  
the model number listed on the side of the shipping carton to the  
model number you ordered (Model Numbers 5102M-FBP, 5104M-FBP,  
or 5104M-FB1).  
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 module from the shipping carton.  
3. Remove the module from the anti-static shielding bag and inspect it  
for damage. If the module appears to be damaged, replace it in the  
anti-static shielding bag, return it to the shipping carton, and contact  
your local supplier.  
4. Keep the shipping carton and anti-static shielding bag in which your  
module was shipped for repackaging the module for storage or  
shipment.  
5. Record the serial number of your 10BASE-FB Module. A log for this  
and other information specific to your modules is included in the  
ONline SystemConcentrator Installation and Operation Guide,  
Appendix B, Slot Usage Chart.  
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Quick Installation  
Table 3-1 outlines the steps for installing your 10BASE-FB Module.  
Table 3-1. Quick Installation Procedures  
Step  
Procedure  
Section Title  
Chapter 2,  
Designing and  
Expanding the  
Network  
1
Verify that your network complies with  
the basic rules for network design.  
2
3
Unpack the module.  
Unpacking  
Procedures  
If you do not have a management module Setting the Dip  
installed in the concentrator, configure the Switches  
dip switch settings to your specifications.  
4
5
Insert the module into a blank slot in the  
concentrator and tighten the faceplate  
screws.  
Installing the  
Module  
Establish connections from the 10BASE-FB Installing the  
Module to another 10BASE-FB Module or Module  
10BASE-FB Transceiver using the  
appropriate connectors and cabling.  
6
7
If you have a management module  
Configuring the  
installed in the concentrator, configure the Module  
module using the management  
commands.  
Verify LED status for normal operation.  
Note: To correct problems, consult the  
troubleshooting techniques in Chapter 4.  
Verifying LED and  
Network  
Assignments  
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Setting the Dip Switches  
The 10BASE-FB Modules have two 10-position dip switches (S1 and S2)  
located on the board. Figure 3-1 shows the dip switches on the 10BASE-FB  
Modules and the factory settings.  
Dip switch S1 on the Port-Switching Module differs from dip switch  
S1 on the Module-Switching Module. Figure 3-1 contains examples  
of both dip switches.  
Dip switch S2 is identical for both the Port-Switching Module and  
Module-Switching Module except the Module-Switching Module does  
not provide High power optics.  
You may need to reconfigure one or more of these switches depending on  
your configuration requirements.  
The dip switch settings for the 10BASE-FB Modules are ignored if an ONline  
management module is installed in the concentrator. For this reason, use  
the management commands (rather than the dip switches) to configure  
the 10BASE-FB Modules. If you have an installed management module,  
install the 10BASE-FB Module first and then refer to the Configuring the  
Module section in this chapter for more information.  
This section describes:  
Setting Dip Switch S1  
Setting Dip Switch S2  
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Figure 3-1. 10BASE-FB Module Dip Switch Locations  
Note: The Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Module is also available as a  
two-port module (Model Number 5102M-FBP) for  
installations that do not require four fiber ports. When  
using the switches for the two-port module, all switches  
operate identical to the switches on the four-port module  
with the exception of port 3 and port 4 switches. These  
switches do not perform any operation.  
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Setting Dip Switch S1  
The S1 dip switch on the 10BASE-FB Modules have 10 switches. These  
switches allow you to enable or disable redundancy between ports 1 & 2  
and 3 & 4.  
The S1 dip switch on the:  
Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Module allows you to - assign each port to  
a backplane channel  
Module-Switching 10BASE-FB Module allows you to - assign the  
module to a backplane channel  
For a definition of each dip switch function, refer to the Configuring the  
Module section.  
Table 3-2 lists the functions and settings for switches 1 and 2.  
Table 3-2. Dip Switch S1 Settings for Sw itches 1 and 2  
Factory  
Default  
Switch Setting  
Switch  
Label  
Function  
Off  
On  
1
REDN12 Enable/ disable  
redundancy  
disable  
disable  
enable  
between ports 1  
and 2  
2
REDN34 Enable/ disable  
redundancy  
disable  
disable  
enable  
between ports 3  
and 4  
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Table 3-3 lists the functions and settings for switches 3 through 10.  
Table 3-3. Dip Switch S1 Settings for Sw itches 3 to 10  
CHA0  
CHA1  
Channel Selection  
1 (factory default)  
Switch Setting  
On  
Off  
On  
Off  
On  
On  
Off  
Off  
2
3
Isolated  
Port-Sw itching Module: Port  
operates independent of any  
backplane channel.  
Module-Switching Module:  
Module operates independent of  
any backplane channel.  
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Setting Dip Switch S2  
Dip switch S2 on the 10BASE-FB Modules have 10 switches. These switches  
allow you to:  
Enable high or normal optical power for each port  
Enable or disable any of the four ports  
Enable or disable low light detection for the module  
Table 3-4 lists the functions and settings for dip switch S2. Switch 10 is not  
used.  
Table 3-4. Dip Switch S2 Settings  
Factory  
Default  
Switch Setting  
Switch  
Label  
Function  
Off  
On  
1
P1 HIPWR Port 1 High or  
Normal power  
disable  
(normal)  
disable  
enable  
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
P2 HIPWR Port 2 High or  
Normal power  
disable  
(normal)  
disable  
disable  
disable  
disable  
disable  
disable  
disable  
enable  
enable  
enable  
enable  
enable  
enable  
enable  
P3 HIPWR Port 3 High or  
Normal power  
disable  
(normal)  
P4 HIPWR Port 4 High or  
Normal power  
disable  
(normal)  
P1 EN  
P2 EN  
P3 EN  
P4 EN  
Enable/disable  
Port 1  
enable  
enable  
enable  
enable  
Enable/disable  
Port 2  
Enable/disable  
Port 3  
Enable/disable  
Port 4  
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Table 3-4. Dip Switch S2 Settings (Continued)  
Factory  
Default  
Switch Setting  
Switch  
Label  
Function  
Off  
On  
9
LOL EN  
Enable/disable  
module Low  
enable  
disable  
enable  
Light Detection  
10  
Not Used  
Installing the Module  
You do not need to power down the ONline System Concentrator to install  
the 10BASE-FB Modules. You can insert or remove the module while the  
concentrator is operating (this is called a hot swap).  
To install a 10BASE-FB Module:  
1. Do one of the following:  
If you do not have a management module installed in the  
concentrator, set the dip switches on the board (if different from  
the default setting). After you complete the installation  
procedure, go to the Monitoring the Front Panel section to verify  
the installation.  
If you have a management module installed in the concentrator,  
complete this installation procedure and then configure the  
module using the commands as described in the Configuring the  
Module section.  
2. Locate a blank slot in the concentrator. If there is no blank slot,  
remove a blank panel on the concentrator to expose a slot for a  
10BASE-FB Module.  
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3. Insert the module into the board guides at the top and bottom of the  
slot and slide it into the concentrator. Make sure that the connector  
is well-seated into the backplane of the concentrator.  
Figure 3-2 shows the installation of a 10BASE-FB Module  
.
Figure 3-2. Installing the 10BASE-FB Module  
4. Fasten the spring-loaded screws on the front of the 10BASE-FB  
Module faceplate to the concentrator using your fingers (do not  
overtighten).  
5. Remove the plastic fiber optic covers from the cable ports. Keep  
unused cable ports capped to keep the optics clean.  
6. Attach the fiber cables to the fiber ports on the front of the  
10BASE-FB Module as shown in Figure 3-3.  
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.
Figure 3-3. 10BASE-FB Module Connection  
7. Make sure transmit and receive cables are:  
Clearly marked or color-coded.  
Connected to the appropriate ports on the 10BASE-FB Module.  
Properly cleaned with an appropriate fiber optic cleaning solution  
before installation.  
Note: Do not exceed the bend radius for the fiber cable when  
directing the cables under the concentrator. Refer to the  
cable manufacturer's specifications for minimum bend  
radius.  
8. Attach the other ends of the cables to either:  
Another 10BASE-FB module  
3Com 10BASE-FB Star Coupler port  
3Com 10BASE-FB Transceiver  
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3Com Fault-Tolerant 10BASE-FB Transceiver  
Make sure that the transmit fiber at one end always connects to a  
receive port at the other end.  
Caution: Do not connect this module to an ONline 10BASE-FL  
Module or to any other product that is not compatible  
with the 10BASE-FB modules. These illegal connections  
may cause network failure.  
Configuring the Module  
The ONline management modules can configure the following settings on  
the 10BASE-FB Modules:  
Enable and disable each port on the module  
Set the ports to independent Ethernet networks within the  
concentrator (Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Module)  
Set the module to independent Ethernet networks within the  
concentrator (10BASE-FB Module)  
Set redundancy between two ports on the module or between ports  
on another 10BASE-FB Module (using Advanced EMM V4.01 or  
higher)  
Enable and disable the low light warning  
Set the fiber optic transmission power for each port  
The following ONline management modules provide network management  
capabilities for the ONline System Concentrator and its modules:  
Ethernet Management Module V4.01  
Token Ring Management Module V3.10  
FDDI Management Module V2.00  
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When an ONline management module is installed in a concentrator, all of  
the dip switch settings on the 10BASE-FL Module are overridden.  
When you first install the module:  
1. The network (channel) defaults to isolated mode. The ports are  
automatically disabled so that unapproved users cannot be added.  
Therefore, you must enable the ports you wish to use and set the  
ports to the appropriate Ethernet network through the management  
commands.  
2. All other module settings retain the same default values as the dip  
switch default values. Therefore, you only need to changes these  
values through management if you do not want the default values.  
This section describes the management commands to set these features.  
For additional information on the available network management features,  
refer to:  
The appropriate ONline management module installation and  
operation guide  
ONline Management Commands Guide  
Enabling Ports  
You can enable or disable each of the four ports on the module. When a  
port is enabled, it can transmit data onto and receive data from the  
network to which the module is assigned. Disable all unused ports on the  
10BASE-FB Modules to prevent the Status indicators from flashing a No  
Light condition.  
To enable or disable a specific port, use the following management  
command:  
SET PORT {slot.port} MODE {enable}  
{slot.all}  
{disable}  
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Selecting a Network  
Both models of the Port-Switching Module (Model Numbers 5102M-FBP or  
5104M-FBP) support Port-Switching technology. This feature enables you to  
assign each port on the module to any of three Ethernet networks (or  
isolated) on the ONline System Concentrator backplane.  
To set a port to a network or to isolated mode, use the following  
management command:  
SET PORT {slot.port} NETWORK {ethernet_1}  
{slot.all}  
{ethernet_2}  
{ethernet_3}  
{isolated}  
The 10BASE-FB Module (Model Number 5104M-FB) enables you to assign  
the module to any of the three Ethernet networks (or isolated) on the  
ONline System Concentrator backplane.  
To set a module to a network or to isolated mode, use the following  
management command:  
SET MODULE {slot} NETWORK {ethernet_1}  
{ethernet_2}  
{ethernet_3}  
{isolated}  
Note: The dip switch settings on the module refer to the  
backplane connection as the “channel” connection. The  
channel setting and the network setting are the same.  
Modules or ports set to the same network communicate  
with each other.  
Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 15  
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Enabling Port Redundancy  
You can enable port redundancy in one of the following ways:  
If you have network management, you can enable or disable main  
port redundancy between any two ports on the 10BASE-FB Module.  
If you do not have management, you can use the dip switches on the  
module to configure redundancy between ports 1 and 2 on the  
module or ports 3 and 4.  
For example, when you enable redundancy:  
1. Port 1 becomes the primary link and port 2 is the redundant link.  
2. If the primary link (port 1) fails, the redundant link (port 2) is engaged  
automatically, thus preventing a network failure.  
3. When you disable redundancy, each port works independently.  
Note: Enabling port redundancy for two ports automatically  
enables the ports, even if the ports were previously  
disabled.  
The redundancy status LEDs, located between the sets of port LEDs and the  
port connectors on the 10BASE-FB Module, are:  
Off - When you disable redundancy (default setting)  
On - When you enable redundancy  
To set redundancy between ports, use the following management  
command:  
SET PORT {slot.port} MODE REDUNDANT {slot.port}  
To turn off redundancy between ports, use the MODE NON_REDUNDANT  
option. Redundancy configurations are shown in Chapter 2, Designing and  
Expanding the Network.  
3 - 16 ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation and Operation Guide  
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When you set redundancy between two ports on the same 10BASE-FB  
Module and the primary port and the redundant port experience a link  
failure simultaneously, and you disable redundancy:  
The primary port is disabled  
The redundant port is enabled  
Enabling Low Light Warning  
You can enable or disable low light warning for all ports on the module.  
When you enable low light warning, the Status LED of the port which  
detects the low light condition blinks 6 times. (A low light condition is  
defined as power received between -26.0 dBm and -30.0 dBm peak power.)  
You may have a legal configuration in which low light is acceptable to span  
a long distance. In this case, you may want to disable the low light  
warning so the Status LED does not blink for this connection.  
To enable or disable low light warning for a port, use the following  
management command:  
SET PORT {slot.port} LOW_LIGHT_WARNING {enable}  
{slot.all}  
{disable}  
Enabling Optical Power  
High-power optics are standard in all 3Com ONline fiber optic products.  
The higher power allows you to directly connect buildings as far as 4.0  
kilometers apart without the additional expense of signal-boosting  
equipment. However, it is necessary to set a port to the normal power  
setting when it is connected to a 3Com 10BASE-FB fiber optic product.  
Each port on the Port-Switching 10BASE-FB module can be set to high or  
normal power through the dip switches or through management  
commands. To set a port to high or normal power, use the following  
management command:  
SET PORT {slot.port} HIGH_POWER {enable}  
{slot.all}  
{disable}  
Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 17  
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The 10BASE-FB Module-Switching Module can be set to high or normal  
power through the dip switches (see Table 3-4).  
Saving Module Configuration  
To save the module and port settings to management module memory, use  
the following command:  
SAVE MODULE_PORT  
Showing Module Configuration  
You can display status information about the 10BASE-FB Modules using the  
following commands:  
SHOW MODULE  
SHOW MODULE VERBOSE  
SHOW PORT  
SHOW PORT VERBOSE  
For example, the following command displays detailed information about  
port 1 on the Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Module in slot 8 of the  
concentrator.  
ONline> show port 8.1 verbose  
[ENTER]  
Port Display for Module 5104M-FBP:  
Port Mode  
Status  
Network  
General Information  
_____________________________________________________________  
08.01 ENABLED OKAY  
ETHERNET_2  
Network Dip Setting:  
Mode Dip Setting:  
Low Light Warning:  
ETHERNET_2  
ENABLED  
ENABLED  
Low Light Warning Dip Setting: ENABLED  
High Power Optics: ENABLED  
High Power Optics Dip Setting: DISABLED  
3 - 18 ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation and Operation Guide  
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This display tells you the status of the specific port. It includes the  
management and dip switch settings from the board.  
The following command displays detailed information about the 10BASE-FB  
Module in slot 8 of the concentrator.  
ONline> show module 8 verbose  
[ENTER]  
Port Display for Module 5104M-FB1:  
Slot Module  
Version  
Network  
General Information  
ETHERNET_2  
08 5104M-FB1 00x  
ISOLATED  
5104M-FB1: ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module  
Network Dip Setting:  
Low Light Warning:  
ETHERNET_1  
DISABLED  
Low Light Warning Dip Setting: DISABLED  
This display tells you the status of the specific module. It includes the  
management and dip switch settings from the board.  
For more information on the SHOW commands, refer to the:  
Appropriate ONline management module installation and operation  
guide  
ONline Management Commands Guide  
Monitoring the Front Panel  
The LEDs on the front panel of the 10BASE-FB Module allow you to monitor  
the status of each port. The 10BASE-FB Module has 10 LEDs on the front  
panel that allow you to monitor diagnostic, activity, and redundancy status  
for each port. Figure 3-4 shows the locations of these indicators.  
Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 19  
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Figure 3-4. 10BASE-FB Port-Switching Module Faceplate and  
ONline System Concentrator  
3 - 20 ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation and Operation Guide  
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Table 3-5 describes how to interpret the 10BASE-FB Module LEDs.  
Table 3-5. Interpreting the 10BASE-FB Module LEDs  
LED Name  
Color  
State  
Off  
Indicates  
Activity  
yellow  
No packets are received on the  
fiber segment.  
(Ports 1-4)  
On  
Constant activity on the fiber  
segment.  
Blinking Module receives packets from  
segment to which it is attached.  
Status  
green  
Off  
On  
Port disabled.  
(Ports 1-4)  
Port enabled or in standby and link  
integrity is OK.  
1 blink  
No light detected.  
Jabber.  
2 blinks  
3 blinks  
4 blinks  
5 blinks  
6 blinks  
Partition.  
Remote fault.  
Invalid data received.  
Low light received (you can disable  
it using Low Light switch setting).  
Redundancy green  
(Ports 1-2)  
(Ports 3-4)  
Off  
On  
Redundancy is disabled; ports are  
independent of each other.  
Redundancy is enabled between  
ports 1 & 2 and 3 & 4.  
Blinking Switchover has taken place or there  
has been a link failure.  
Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 21  
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Verifying LED and Network Assignments  
Once you install the module, verify its operation through the front panel of  
the ONline Controller Module. The Controller Module is equipped with an  
LED check button on the front panel. Use the LED check buttonto:  
Verify LED operation  
Verify network (channel) assignment  
When you press this button, the Controller Module initiates a test to all  
modules in the concentrator. All LEDs should respond by lighting  
continuously for approximately five seconds. Any LED that does not light is  
defective.  
After the 5 seconds elapse, the diagnostic continues with a network  
(channel) check of all modules. Each Status LED should respond by blinking  
the number of times to correspond with the network to which the module  
is assigned. The network check sequence repeats 5 times. Table 3-6  
explains the network check codes.  
Table 3-6. Network Check Codes  
LED State  
Netw ork Configuration  
1 Blink  
2 Blinks  
3 Blinks  
Off  
Module or port is configured for network 1  
Module or port is configured for network 2  
Module orport is configured for network 3  
Module or port is isolated (operates independent of any  
network)  
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Troubleshooting  
4
This chapter describes fault conditions and troubleshooting procedures for  
the ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Modules.  
This chapter contains the following sections:  
Troubleshooting Using the Port Activity LEDs  
Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs  
Technical Assistance  
Troubleshooting 4 - 1  
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Troubleshooting Using the Port Activity LEDs  
If a port Activity LED does not light, use Table 4-1 to help troubleshoot the  
problem.  
Table 4-1. Troubleshooting Using the Port Activity LEDs  
LED  
State  
Possible Cause  
Corrective Action  
Off  
There is no traffic received None.  
from the segment.  
Port is disabled.  
Use the EMM to check if the  
port is enabled or check the port  
dip switch setting.  
Power is off.  
Check the Controller Module  
Power LEDs.  
Activity LED has burned  
out.  
Press the LED check button on  
the Controller Module.  
10BASE-FB Module port is Connect the cable to a different  
faulty.  
port.  
10BASE-FB Module is  
faulty.  
Try a different 10BASE-FB  
Module.  
Backplane connection is  
bad.  
Reinsert the 10BASE-FB  
Module. If this fails, try another  
concentrator slot.  
4 - 2 ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation and Operation Guide  
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Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs  
A blinking Port Status indicator is always a sign that the port detects a  
potential problem. Once a port detects a problem, you can further analyze  
the problem by counting the number of blinks. Table 4-2 provides  
troubleshooting suggestions for each of the blinking sequences.  
Table 4-2. Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs  
LED State  
Indication  
Possible Cause  
Corrective Action  
Off  
Port Disabled Port disabled.  
Enable port.  
10BASE-FB  
Module not  
powered up.  
Check concentrator  
power status.  
Reinsert the  
10BASE-FB Module.  
Broken LED.  
Press the LED check  
button on Controller  
Module.  
Bad 10BASE-FB  
Module.  
Replace module.  
Troubleshooting 4 - 3  
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Table 4-2. Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs (Continued)  
LED State  
Indication  
Possible Cause  
Corrective Action  
1 Blink  
No Light  
Received  
Cables crossed.  
Verify TX on remote  
device is connected to  
RX on 10BASE-FB  
Module.  
Insufficient  
optical power  
received.  
Check 10BASE-FB  
Module optical power  
using a light meter.  
Try High power on  
remote device.  
Check optical power of  
remote device.  
If optical power levels  
are OK, check cable; it  
may be bad or too  
long.  
Broken fiber  
cable.  
Check and fix RX fiber  
link.  
Bad fiber  
connections.  
Clean and reconnect  
fiber (both ends).  
Bad remote  
device or port.  
Replace remote device  
or try another port.  
Bad 10BASE-FB  
Module.  
Replace module.  
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Table 4-2. Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs (Continued)  
LED State  
Indication  
Possible Cause  
Corrective Action  
2 Blinks  
Jabber  
Loop in network. Disconnect each link  
in the network one at  
a time to isolate the  
loop.  
Bad 10BASE-FB  
Module.  
Replace module.  
3 Blinks  
4 Blinks  
Partition  
Looped fiber  
cable.  
Remove looped cable.  
Remote Fault Remote device  
detects a  
Check remote device's  
status LEDs to identify  
problem.  
problem.  
Bad remote  
device.  
Try another port or  
replace device.  
Bad 10BASE-FB  
Module.  
Replace the module.  
Troubleshooting 4 - 5  
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Table 4-2. Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs (Continued)  
LED State  
Indication  
Possible Cause  
Corrective Action  
5 Blinks  
Invalid Data  
Receive light  
intensity too  
high.  
Verify that received  
optical power level is  
correct. Refer to  
Chapter 2 (Link  
Distances).  
Connection  
made to  
10BASE-FL  
Module.  
Unplug the  
connection. 10BASE-FL  
is not compatible with  
this 10BASE-FB  
Module.  
Bad fiber  
connections.  
Clean and reconnect  
fiber (both ends).  
Broken or  
cracked fiber.  
Check and fix RX fiber  
link.  
Bad remote  
device.  
Try another port or  
replace device.  
Bad 10BASE-FB  
Module.  
Replace the module.  
6 Blinks  
Low Light  
Received  
Low light  
received.  
Verify optical power  
received is at low end  
of optical power  
budget by doing an  
optical power  
calculation. If value is  
acceptable, disable low  
light detection.  
Legal  
Disable low light  
detection or enable  
High power at remote  
end.  
configuration  
with acceptable  
low light.  
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Technical Assistance  
You can receive assistance for installing and troubleshooting the 10BASE-FB  
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 ONline network management  
module being used  
Version of software installed on your 10BASE-FB Module  
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 on contacting Technical Support for  
your product.  
Troubleshooting 4 - 7  
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Specifications  
A
This appendix lists specifications for the Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Module  
and the 10BASE-FB Module. Specification differences between the  
Port-Switching 10BASE-FB Module and the 10BASE-FB Module are indicated.  
Specifications for the modules include:  
General Specifications  
Optical Specifications  
Power Specifications  
Environmental Specifications  
Mechanical Specifications  
Miscellaneous Specifications  
3Com 10BASE-FB Network Products  
10BASE-FB Cables and Connectors Specifications  
Specifications A - 1  
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General Specifications  
Table A-1 lists general specifications for the 10BASE-FB Module.  
Table A-1. General Specifications  
10BASE-FB Module Model Numbers 5102M-FBP  
5104M-FBP  
5104M-FB1  
Collision Detection  
Configuration Rules  
100% deterministic  
Compliant with IEEE 802.3  
10BASE-FB specifications  
Jabber Protection  
10.8 ± 1 msec  
Maximum Number of Nodes  
Backplane Interface  
1024  
96-pin edge connector,  
compatible with the ONline  
System Concentrator  
External Connector  
Host Interface  
4 pairs of fiber ports (ST, SMA, or  
FC connectors)  
ONline System Concentrator bus  
interface standard  
Installation Attachment  
Two thumbscrews on the  
mounting bracket  
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Optical Specifications  
This section lists the optical specifications for the 10BASE-FB Module,  
including:  
Transmitter Specifications  
Receiver Specifications  
Supported Fiber Optic Cables  
Fiber Optic Interface  
Transmitter Specifications  
Light Source: GaA1As LED at wavelength 820 ± 20 nm. Power coupled into  
fiber cable inclusive of ST, SMA, or FC connector loss.  
Table A-2 lists normal and high power transmit specifications.  
Table A-2. Transmit Power  
Cable Type  
Normal Power  
High Power  
100/140 micron, - 11.5 dBm (± 3.0 dBm) - 4.5 dBm (± 2.25 dBm)  
0.29 NA fiber  
85/125 micron,  
0.29 NA fiber  
- 14.0 dBm (± 3.0 dBm) - 7.0 dBm (± 2.25 dBm)  
62.5/125 micron, - 17.0 dBm (± 3.0 dBm) - 10.0 dBm (± 2.25 dBm)  
0.275 NA fiber  
50/125 micron,  
0.20 NA fiber  
- 21.5 dBm (± 3.0 dBm) - 14.25 dBm (± 2.25 dBm)  
Specifications A - 3  
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Receiver Specifications  
Table A-3 lists receiver specifications for the 10BASE-FB Module.  
Table A-3. Receiver Specifications  
Light Detector  
Input Range  
Silicon PIN photodiode  
Optical power input of -8.0 dBm to -30.0 dBm  
-10  
Bit Error Rate  
Dynamic Range  
1 in 10 over dynamic range  
22.0 dB  
Supported Fiber Optic Cables  
You can use the following fiber optic cables with the 10BASE-FB Module:  
50/125  
62.5/125  
85/125  
100/140  
The fiber optic cable must be:  
Micron diameter graded index  
Duplex fiber  
150 MHz km rating or better  
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Fiber Optic Interface  
Table A-4 lists specifications for the fiber optic interface.  
Table A-4. Fiber Optic Interface Specifications  
Data Rate  
10 Mbps (million bits per second)  
Data Modulation  
Diagnostic Modulation  
Fiber Optic Interface  
Signaling  
Manchester  
Pulse Width  
ST-, SMA-, and FC-type  
Compatible with all 10BASE-FB  
and 10BASE-FB products  
Power Requirements  
Table A-5 lists power requirements for the 10BASE-FB Module.  
Table A-5. Power Requirements  
Power Requirements  
Fuse  
1.7 Amp @ 5 V  
4.0 Amps for 5 V, Fast blow  
8.5 Watts  
Power Consumption  
BTU/hour  
29.0  
Specifications A - 5  
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Environmental Specifications  
Table A-6 lists electrical specifications for the 10BASE-FB Module.  
Table A-6. Electrical Specifications  
Operating Temperature  
Storage Temperature  
Humidity  
0° to 50° C (32° to 122° F)  
-30° to 65° C (-22° to 149° F)  
Less than 95%, non-condensing  
Mechanical Specifications  
Table A-7 lists mechanical specifications for the 10BASE-FB Module.  
Table A-7. Mechanical Specifications  
Dimensions  
Weight  
1.0" W x 10.25" L x 8.5" H  
(2.54 cm x 26.04 cm x 21.6 cm)  
1.25 lb. (0.57 kg.)  
3Com 10BASE-FB Network Products  
This section describes the fiber Ethernet products available from 3Com. In  
addition to the Ethernet 10BASE-FB Modules described in this guide, the  
following fiber products are available from 3Com:  
3Com 10BASE-FB Transceiver - The 3Com 10BASE-FB Transceiver  
(Model Number 5101T-FB) connects a device to the fiber network.  
The 10BASE-FB Transceiver has an AUI port and a fiber port. The AUI  
port connects to the device through the transceiver cable. The fiber  
port connects to the fiber network.  
A - 6 ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation and Operation Guide  
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3Com Fault-Tolerant 10BASE-FB Transceiver - The 3Com  
Fault-Tolerant 10BASE-FB Transceiver (Model Number 5102T-FBFT)  
provides fault tolerance to-the-desktop. The transceiver connects an  
existing network to a fault-tolerant fiber backbone network. It also  
provides a fault-tolerant network connection for a mission-critical  
device.  
3Com 10BASE-FB Star Coupler - The 3Com 10BASE-FB Star Coupler  
(Model Number 9308S-FB) is a pure fiber hub that provides both  
backbone and to-the-desk connectivity.  
10BASE-FB Cable and Connector Specifications  
This section contains information on 10BASE-FB cables, and connectors.  
Use the information in the following sections to ensure that the cables and  
connecting hardware meet requirements.  
You can use many types of fiber cables and connectors to link your  
10BASE-FB Module to your network. These cables and connectors are  
explained in the sections that follow. For proper operation, use only  
approved cables when you install all equipment.  
10BASE-FB Cables  
The fiber optic cable diameters that the 10BASE-FB Module supports must  
meet the following qualifications:  
50/125, 62.5/125, 85/125, or 100/140 µm graded index fiber  
duplex fiber with a 150 MHzKm rating or better  
Note that network link distances are affected by the grade of cable you  
choose. The quality of fiber cable varies significantly. Typically, measure  
quality in terms of the signal loss per km. The less amount of loss, the  
better the cable quality. Good quality 62.5 µm fiber typically has a 3 to 4  
dB loss per kilometer.  
Specifications A - 7  
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The 10BASE-FB Modules are available in both SMA-type, ST-type, and  
FC-type fiber connectors for direct connection to a Fiber Ethernet LAN.  
When you order a 10BASE-FB Module, use the part numbers listed in  
Table A-8 for the correct connector type.  
Table A-8. 10BASE-FB Module Part Numbers  
Port-Switching  
Connector Type  
10BASE-FB Fiber  
Module  
10BASE-FB Fiber Module  
ST-type  
5104M-FBP-ST  
5102M-FBP-ST  
5104M-FB1-ST  
5104M-FB1-SMA  
5104M-FB1-FC  
SMA-type  
FC-type  
5104M-FBP-SMA  
5102M-FBP-SMA  
5104M-FBP-FC  
5102M-FBP-FC  
Connecting Fiber Cables  
If you use a concentrator in your network setup, connect cables first at the  
active concentrator location. Refer to the ONline System Concentrator  
Installation and Operation Guide for more information about the  
concentrator connections and configuration rules.  
A - 8 ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation and Operation Guide  
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Technical Support  
B
3Com provides easy access to technical support information through a  
variety of services. This appendix describes the following services:  
On-line Technical Support  
Support from Your Network Supplier  
Support from 3Com  
Returning Products for Repair  
Accessing the 3Com MIB  
3Com Technical Publications  
On-line Technical Support  
3Com offers worldwide product support through the following on-line  
systems:  
Email Technical Service  
World Wide Web Site  
Technical Support B - 1  
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Email Technical Support  
You can contact the Integrated Systems Division (formerly Chipcom) on the  
Internet for technical support using the e-mail address  
techsupp@chipcom.com.  
World Wide Web Site  
You can access the latest networking information on the 3Com World  
Wide Web site by entering our URL into your Internet browser:  
http://www.3Com.com/  
This service features news and information about 3Com products,  
customer service and support, the 3Com latest news releases, selected  
articles from 3TECH , the 3Com award-winning technical journal, and  
more.  
You can contact the Integrated Systems Division on the World Wide Web  
by entering our URL into your Internet browser:  
http://www.chipcom.com/  
There are links between both WWW pages to view information from all  
3Com divisions.  
Support from Your Network Supplier  
If additional assistance is required, contact your network supplier. Many  
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.  
B - 2 ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation Guide  
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When 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, see the following  
section on how to contact 3Com.  
Support from 3Com  
If you are unable to receive support from your network supplier, technical  
support contracts are available from 3Com.  
For direct access to customer service for Integrated Systems Division  
products in:  
U.S.A. and Canada - call (800) 724-2447  
Asia Pacific - call (508) 787-5151  
Europe - refer to the table below. For European countries not listed,  
call 31 30 60 299 00.  
Country  
Belgium  
Denmark  
Finland  
France  
Telephone Number  
0800 71429  
800 17309  
Country  
Netherlands  
Norway  
Spain  
Telephone Number  
06 0227788  
800 11376  
0800 113153  
05 917959  
900 983125  
Sweden  
U.K.  
020 795482  
Germany  
Ireland  
Italy  
0130 821502  
1 800 553117  
1678 79489  
0800 966197  
800 876-3266  
U.S.  
Technical Support B - 3  
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For access to customer service for all 3Com products, call (800) 876-3266.  
You can also contact the Integrated Systems Division (ISD) on the Internet  
by using the e-mail address techsupp@chipcom.com.  
Returning Products for Repair  
A product sent directly to 3Com for repair must first be assigned a Return  
Materials Authorization (RMA) number. A product sent to 3Com without  
an RMA number will be returned to the sender unopened, at the senders  
expense.  
To obtain an RMA number for Integrated Systems Division products  
(formerly Chipcom), use the following numbers.  
Country  
Telephone Number  
Fax Number  
(508) 787-3400  
No Fax  
U.S. and Canada (800) 724-2447  
Europe  
(44) (1442) 275860  
(508) 787-5296  
Asia Pacific  
(508) 787-3400  
Accessing the 3Com MIB  
The 3Com Management Information Base (MIB) for the Integrated Systems  
Division 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.chipcom.com(151.104.9.65).  
2. Enter the login name anonymous.  
B - 4 ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module Installation Guide  
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3. Enter your full Internet e-mail address as the password  
(for example, [email protected]).  
4. Change to the mib or schema directory using the cd /pub/mibsor  
cd /pub/mibs/schemascommand.  
5. To view the 3Com MIB, OID, or schema entries, enter the dir  
command.  
To pause the display, press [CTRL-S].  
To continue the display, press [CTRL-Q].  
6. Copy the MIB, OID, or schema files to your current directory using the  
appropriate command (for example, get chipcom.mib).  
7. To exit the FTP session, invoke the quitcommand.  
3Com Technical Publications  
If you have comments or questions on 3Com Integrated Systems Division  
Technical Publications documents, please contact the Technical Publications  
group by FAX (508) 229-1551.  
Technical Support B - 5  
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Index  
Numerics  
10BASE-FB  
A
Activity Indicator, 3-21  
All Fiber Network, 2-17  
Assign a Network, 3-15  
Compliance, 1-4  
Standard, 1-4  
10BASE-FB Fiber Transceiver, 1-2  
10BASE-FB Links  
Using Dip Switches, 3-7  
Attenuation, 2-10  
Determine Maximum Distance, 2-6  
10BASE-FB Module  
B
Assign a Network, 3-15  
Backbone Cabling, 2-14  
Configuring, 3-13  
Serial Wiring, 2-16  
Descriptions, 1-2  
Star Wiring, 2-15  
Backbone Fault Tolerance, 2-29  
Bend Radius, 3-12  
Enable and Disable Ports, 3-14  
Fault-Tolerant Configuration, 2-26  
Features, 1-2  
Broken Cables  
Splicing, 2-10  
bulletin board service, B-3  
Fiber Backbone, Coaxial Connection, 2-24  
Fiber Backbone, Fiber-to-the-Desk, 2-17  
Fiber Backbone, UTP-to-the-Desk, 2-22  
Link Redundancy, 1-2  
Model Numbers, A-8  
C
Network Independence, 1-3  
Optical Power Budget, 2-9  
Port Redundancy, 2-26  
Compatibility With Other Products, 1-6, A-6  
Connecting  
the 10BASE-FB Module, 3-12  
Connecting Fiber Cables, A-8  
Redundancy Features, 2-26  
Serial Configuration, 2-16  
Specifications, A-6  
Star Configuration, 2-15  
Theory of Operation, 1-4  
TriChannel Architecture, 1-3  
Used as Network Backbone, 1-4  
10BASE-FB Network Configurations  
Fiber Backbone, Coaxial Connection, 2-24  
10BASE-FB Star Coupler, 1-2  
3Com Bulletin Board Service (3ComBBS), B-3  
D
Dip Switch Settings  
S1 Dip Switch, 3-7  
S2 Dip Switch, 3-9  
Dip Switches, 3-5  
Channel Setting, 3-8  
Low Light Warning Enable/ Disable, 3-10  
Index 1  
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Optical Power, 3-9  
G
Port Enable/Disable, 3-9  
Redundancy Enable/Disable, 3-7  
Disable Redundancy, 3-16  
Distance Limitations, 2-5  
Grounding Techniques, 3-2  
H
Hot Swap Capability, 1-3  
E
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD), 3-2  
Enable Redundancy, 3-16  
I
IEEE 802.3 CSMA/ CD Protocol, 2-17  
Installing the Module, 3-1, 3-10  
Connecting Fiber Cables, 3-11  
Grounding Techniques, 3-2  
Precautions, 3-2  
Enable/Disable Ports, 3-14  
Equivalent Fiber Distance, 2-5  
Ethernet 10BASE-FB Module  
Front Panel LEDs, 3-19  
Ethernet Distance Limitations, 2-2  
Ethernet Management Module, 3-13  
L
LEDs  
F
Activity, 3-21  
Fault-Tolerant 10BASE-FB Transceiver, 1-2  
Interpreting, 3-21  
Port Status, 3-21  
Redundancy, 3-21  
Verifying Operation, 3-22  
Link Budget, 2-7  
FCC notice, ii  
FDDI Management Module, 3-13  
Features  
Hot Swap Capability, 1-3  
Slot Independence, 1-3  
Standard Compliance, 1-3  
Fiber Cables, A-7  
Low Light  
Dip Switch Setting, 3-10  
Management Command Syntax, 3-17  
Warning, 2-14  
Connector and Splice Loss, 2-7, 2-11  
Connectors, A-8  
Low Light Condition, 3-17  
Installing, 3-11  
Link Budget, 2-7  
Loss Characteristics, 2-11  
Fiber Connector Types, 1-3  
Fiber Equivalent Distances  
Between Transceiver, 2-21  
Fiber Link Distances, 2-6  
Fiber Module Configurations, 2-17  
Fiber Optic Cable  
M
Management Commands  
SAVE MODULE_PORT, 3-18  
SET PORT HIGH_POWER, 3-17  
SET PORT LOW_LIGHT_WARNING, 3-17  
SET PORT MODE, 3-14  
SET PORT MODE REDUNDANT, 3-16  
SET PORT NETWORK, 3-15  
SHOW MODULE, 3-18  
Bend Radius, 3-12  
Front Panel  
LEDs, 3-19  
Monitoring, 3-19  
SHOW PORT, 3-18  
MIB, B-4  
2 Index  
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Module Configuration  
Saving, 3-18  
Port LEDs, 3-21  
Port Redundancy  
Showing, 3-18  
Dip Switch Setting, 3-7  
Management Command Syntax, 3-16  
Ports  
N
Disabling, 3-14  
Network Configuration Rules, 2-2  
Enabling, 3-14  
Network Selection  
Port-Switching Fiber Module  
Dip Switch Locations, 3-6  
Fiber Compatibility, 1-6  
Precautionary Procedures, 3-2  
Primary Link, 3-16  
Dip Switch Setting, 3-8  
network supplier support, B-2  
No Light Condition, 3-14  
O
R
ONdemand Network Control System, 1-3  
Management Support, 1-3  
ONline Controller Module, 3-22  
ONline Ethernet 10BASE-FL Module, 1-6  
ONline Ethernet Management Module, 3-13  
ONline FDDI Management Module, 3-13  
on-line technical services, B-1  
ONline Token Ring Management Module,  
3-13  
Redundant Link, 3-16  
Redundancy LED, 2-29  
returning products for repair, B-4  
S
Serial Configuration, 2-16  
Setting Dip Switches, 3-5  
SNMP Commands, B-4  
Specifications  
Optical Fiber Loss, 2-11  
Optical Power  
Dip Switch Setting, 3-9  
Environmental, A-6  
General, A-2  
Mechanical, A-6  
High and Normal Power, 2-7, 2-10  
Management Command Syntax, 3-17  
Optical Power Budget  
Optical, A-3  
High Power, 2-9  
Normal Power, 2-8  
ORnet, 2-9  
Power Requirements, A-5  
Splice Insertion Loss, 2-11  
Star Configuration, 2-15  
ORnet Products  
Attenuation, 2-10  
Optical Power Budget, 2-9  
T
Technical Assistance, 4-7  
Technical Support, 4-7  
technical support, B-1  
P
Patch Panel, 2-11  
Port Enable  
Theory of Operation, 1-4  
Token Ring Management Module, 3-13  
To-the-Desk Cabling  
Dip Switch Setting, 3-9  
Management Command Syntax, 3-14  
Twisted Pair, 2-22  
Index 3  
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TriChannel Architecture, 1-3  
Troubleshooting  
Technical Assistance, 4-7  
Using the Activity LEDs, 4-2  
Using the Status LEDs, 3-21, 4-3  
U
Unpacking Procedures, 3-3  
Unshielded Twisted Pair Cable, 2-22  
V
VDE compliance, ii  
Verifying  
LED Operation, 3-22  
Network Assignment, 3-22  
4 Index  
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