Cabletron Systems switches 사용자 설명서

다운로드
페이지 132
Ethernet Workgroup Design
6-13
Ethernet
Expandability
The simplicity and fluidity of expansion in a small office setting is of paramount 
importance. Every small office wants to expand, even if it is an addition of 
nothing more than a few additional networked computers. The ability to quickly 
and efficiently increase the number of available ports in the small office network 
must factor into any selection of devices for installation. In these situations, the 
stackable products excel, providing for expansion of the number of available 
ports without risking any of the networking limitations of their technologies other 
than the maximums placed on the number of stations in a network.
Port Count
The port count decision for a small office network is a simple comparison of 
expected station counts with supplied port counts. As the port count range from 
the smallest intelligent standalone device to the largest, maximum size intelligent 
stack of stackable hubs covers from 13 to 120 ports, there should be sufficient port 
availability to cover the vast majority of small offices without requiring links to 
other stacks or devices.
Price
As always, the price factor must be considered in the network design process for 
small offices. While there may be a temptation to always opt for the lowest-priced 
device that meets the minimum requirements, Network Designers must keep in 
mind that expandability, manageability, and internetworking capabilities all come 
at an increase to final expense. Even if you do not think a BRIM slot will be 
needed for another two years, it is less expensive to purchase a device with BRIM 
capability and not use it than it is to have to replace the networking hardware at a 
later date to meet additional needs.
Other Considerations
In some cases, there are special design issues that restrict Network Designers to 
particular hardware selections. Limited available space, for example, or the 
environmental conditions of the install location may play a part in the selection of 
a networking device for the home office. These specialized considerations are 
beyond the scope of this document, but a large amount of information can be 
found in the Cabletron Systems Networking Solutions Product Guide.