5202M FR PDF

ONline Token Ring Fiber
Repeater Module Installation

Guide
Document Number 17-00181-5

Printed February 1996
Model Number: 5202M-FR
3Com Corporation
118 Turnpike Road
Southborough, MA 01772-1886
U.S.A.
(508) 460-8900
FAX (508) 460-8950
Federal Communications Commission standards set by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference by
Information Technology Equipment aimed at preventing radio
Notice interference in commercial or industrial areas.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the Consequently, when the equipment is used in a residential area or
limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC in an adjacent area, radio interference may be caused to radio and
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection TV receivers, and so on.
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can Read the instructions for correct handling.
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment
Fiber Cable Classification Notice
in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which Use this equipment only with fiber cable classified by Underwriters
case you must correct the interference at your own expense. Laboratories as to fire and smoke characteristics in accordance
with Section 770-2(b) and Section 725-2(b) of the National
Canadian Emissions Requirements Electrical Code.
This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the

Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
UK General Approval Statement
Cet appareil numrique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences The ONcore Switching Hub, ONline System Concentrator, and
du Rglement sur le matriel brouilleur du Canada. ONsemble StackSystem Hub are manufactured to the International
Safety Standard EN 60950 and are approved in the UK under the
General Approval Number NS/G/12345/J/100003 for indirect
VDE Class B Compliance connection to the public telecommunication network.
Hiermit wird bescheinigt, dass der 5202M-FR in ebereinstimmung

mit den Bestimmungen der Vfg 243/1991 funkentstert ist. Disclaimer
Der Deutschen Bundespost wurde das Inverkehrbringen dieses The information in this document is subject to change without
Geraetes angezeigt und die Berechtigung zur eberprefung der notice and should not be construed as a commitment by 3Com
Serie auf Einhaltung der Bestimmungen eingereumt. Corporation. 3Com Corporation assumes no responsibility for any
errors that may appear in this document.
Einhaltung mit betreffenden Bestimmugen kommt darauf an, dass
geschirmte Ausfuehrungen gebraucht werden. Fuer die
Beschaffung richtiger Ausfuehrungen ist der Betreiber Copyright Statement
verantwortlich.
1996 by 3Com Corporation. Printed in U.S.A. All rights reserved.
This is to certify that the 5202M-FR is shielded against radio The information contained herein is the exclusive and confidential
interference in accordance with the provisions of Vfg 243/1991. property of 3Com Corporation. No part of this manual may be
disclosed or reproduced in whole or in part without permission
The German Postal Services have been advised that this equipment from 3Com Corporation.
is being placed on the market and that they have been given the
right to inspect the series for compliance with regulations.
Trademarks and Patents
Compliance with applicable regulations depends on the use of
shielded cables. The user is responsible for procuring the Because of the nature of this material, numerous hardware and
appropriate cables. software products are mentioned by name. In most, if not all
cases, these product names are claimed as trademarks by the
companies that manufacture the products. It is not the intent of
EN55022/CISPR22 Compliance 3Com Corporation to claim these names or trademarks as its own.
This equipment conforms to the Class A emissions limits for a 3Com, Artel, Boundary Routing, CardBoard, CardFacts, Galactica,
digital device as defined by EN55022 (CISPR22). EtherDisk, EtherLink, EtherLink II, EtherLink Plus, LANplex,
LANsentry, LinkBuilder, NETBuilder, NETBuilder II, NetFacts,
ONcore, ONsemble, ORnet, Parallel Tasking, SmartAgent,
VCCI Class 1 Compliance StarBridge, TokenLink, TokenLink Plus, TriChannel, and ViewBuilder
are registered trademarks of 3Com Corporation.
3Com Laser Library, 3Com OpenHub, 3TECH, FDDILink, FMS,

G-Man, MultiProbe, NetProbe, ONdemand, ONline, PowerRing,
StackJack, StackWay, Star-Tek, SwitchCentral, and Transcend are
trademarks of 3Com Corporation.
3ComFacts and Ask3Com are service marks of 3Com Corporation.

This equipment is in the 1st Class category (information equipment
to be used in commercial or industrial areas) and conforms to the
ii ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

The 3Com Multichannel Architecture Communications System is
registered under U.S. Patent Number 5,301,303.
IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines.

NetView is a trademark of International Business Machines.
3ComFacts, Ask 3Com, CardFacts, NetFacts, and CardBoard are
service marks of 3Com Corporation.
3Com, LANplex, BoundaryRouting, LanScanner, LinkBuilder,

NETBuilder, NETBuilderII, ParallelTasking, ViewBuilder, EtherDisk,
Etherl\Link, EtherLink Plus, EtherLink II, TokenLink, TokenLink Plus,
and TokenDisk are registered trademarks of 3Com Corporation.
3ComLaser Library, 3TECH, CacheCard, FDDILink, FMS, NetProbe,

SmartAgent, Star-Tek, and Transcend are trademarks of 3Com
Corporation.
CompuServe is a registered trademark of CompuServe, Inc.
3Com registered trademarks are registered in the United States,

and may or may not be registered in other countries. Other brand
and product names may be registered trademarks or trademarks of
their respective holders.
Restricted Rights
Use, duplication, or disclosure by the Government is subject to
restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1) (ii) of the Rights in
Technical Data and Computer Software clause at
DFARS 252.227-7013.
Printed on recycled paper.
ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide iii

iv ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide
Contents
How to Use This Guide

Audience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
Structure of This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiv
Document Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xv
Related Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvi
3Com Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvii
Reference Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvii
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Fiber Repeater Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Flexible Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Fiber Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Copper Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Lobe Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Backplane Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Enhanced Fault Tolerance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Chapter 2 Designing and Expanding the Network

General Configuration Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Cable Types and Ring Speeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Maximum Number of Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Fiber Repeater Station Count . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Maximum Lobe Lengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Lobe Cabling: STP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Lobe Cabling: UTP/Level 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Lobe Cabling: UTP/Level 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Maximum Copper Ring In/Ring Out Trunk Lengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Sample Valid Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Single and Multiple Wiring Closet Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide v

Single Closet Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Multiple Closet Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Backbone Configuration Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Traditional Backbone Ring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Collapsed Backbone Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Redundant, Load-Sharing Backbone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
Single Extended Ring Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22
Chapter 3 Installing and Operating the Module

Precautionary Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Unpacking Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Quick Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Setting the Dip Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Dip Switch SW1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Dip Switch SW2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Dip Switch Functionality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Backplane Enable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Single/Multiple Rings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Setting the Jumpers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Installing the Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Module Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
Fiber Ring In/Ring Out Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
Copper Ring In/Ring Out Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16
Lobe Port Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Backplane Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Configuring the Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
Port Enable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Trunk Enable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Copper Ring In/Ring Out Cable Monitor Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
Fiber Ring In/Ring Out 8230 Compatibility Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22
Ring Speed Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27
Network Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-28
Set Module for Internal/External Network Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-28
Saving Module Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-29
Showing Module Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-29
Show Network Map Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-31
Monitoring the Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32
LED and Network Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34
vi ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

Chapter 4 Troubleshooting
General Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Troubleshooting With the Ring In/Ring Out Status LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Troubleshooting With the Lobe Port and Backplane LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Problems Adding a New Node to an Operating Ring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Intermittent Errors on an Operating Ring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
Complete Ring Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Module Replacement Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Module Replacement with Cable Monitor Disabled . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Module Replacement with Cable Monitor Enabled . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Resetting the Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Technical Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Appendix A Specifications
General Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
Power Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
Mechanical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
Miscellaneous Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
Cables and Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
Fiber Optic Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
Fiber Cable Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
Transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
Fiber Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
Twisted Pair Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
Twisted Pair (Copper) Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
Twisted Pair Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5
ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide vii

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
viii ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

Figures
Figure 1-1. Fiber Repeater Module Front Panel Connections . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Figure 2-1. Invalid Fiber Repeater Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Figure 2-2. Valid Token Ring Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Figure 2-3. Interconnection of Fiber Repeater and MAU Modules
in a Single Closet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Figure 2-4. Fiber Repeater and Media Modules Connected
Via Backplane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Figure 2-5. Multiple Closet Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Figure 2-6. Traditional Backbone Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Figure 2-7. Collapsed Backbone Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
Figure 2-8. Redundant, Load-Sharing Backbone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21
Figure 2-9. Single Extended Ring Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22
Figure 3-1. Fiber Repeater Module Dip Switch Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Figure 3-2. Jumper Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Figure 3-3. Installing the Fiber Repeater Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
Figure 3-4. Sample Fiber Repeater Module Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
Figure 3-5. Multivendor Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Figure 3-6. Link Redundancy Between Token Ring Modules . . . . . . . . 3-20
Figure 3-7. Implementing Cable Monitor Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21
Figure 3-8. Normal Ring Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23
Figure 3-9. Wrapped Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24
Figure 3-10. Fiber Repeater Module Faceplate and ONline
System Concentrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32
Figure 4-1. Cable Monitor Mode Disabled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Figure 4-2. Cable Monitor Mode Enabled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
Figure A-1. RJ-45 Connector Pinouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide ix

x ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide
Tables
Table 2-1. Maximum Lobe Lengths (in Meters) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Table 2-2. Specifications for Shielded Twisted Pair 4 and 16 Mbps
Network Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Table 2-3. Specifications for Unshielded Twisted Pair 4 and 16 Mbps
Network Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Table 2-4. Maximum Trunk Lengths for 4 Mbps
Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Table 2-5. Maximum Trunk Lengths for 16 Mbps Networks . . . . . . . . 2-11
Table 3-1. Quick Installation Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Table 3-2. SW1 Dip Switch Settings and Interpretations . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Table 3-3. SW2 Dip Switch Settings and Interpretations . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Table 3-4. Ring/Slot Assignments for a 17-Slot Concentrator* . . . . . . 3-11
Table 3-5. Ring/Slot Assignments for a 6-Slot Concentrator . . . . . . . . 3-11
Table 3-6. Jumper Settings and Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Table 3-7. Compatibility Mode Wrapping Scenarios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25
Table 3-8. Interpretation of the Fiber Repeater Module
LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33
Table 3-9. Network Check Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35
Table 4-1. Troubleshooting With the Fiber Ring In/Ring Out Status
LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Table 4-2. Troubleshooting With the Copper Ring In/Ring Out
Status LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Table 4-3. Troubleshooting With the Lobe Port LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Table 4-4. Troubleshooting With the Backplane LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Table 4-5. Fiber Repeater Module Swap Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Table A-1. IBM Twisted Pair Cable Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5
ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide xi

How to Use This Guide
This guide describes the features, controls/indicators, and installation

procedure for the ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module.
Information on troubleshooting and diagnostics is included for operation
verification. This guide also contains a configuration section that will be
helpful when you plan your network configuration.
Audience
This guide is intended for the following people at your site:
Network manager or administrator
Hardware installer
ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide xiii

Structure of This Guide
This guide contains the following chapters:
Chapter 1, Introduction Introduces the principal features of the ONline

Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module and a theory of operation.
Chapter 2, Designing and Expanding the Network Provides and

explains examples of network configurations using the Token Ring Fiber
Repeater Module and other ONline Token Ring products.
Chapter 3, Installing and Operating the Module Illustrates

procedures for installing the Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module into the
ONline System Concentrator.
Chapter 4, Troubleshooting Provides help in isolating and correcting

problems you may experience during the installation process and during
normal operation.
Appendix A, Specifications Provides product dimensions, power

requirements, cable and connector specifications, and other module
specifications.
Appendix B, Technical Support Lists the various methods for

contacting the 3Com technical support organization and for accessing
other product support services.
Index
xiv ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

Document Conventions
The following document conventions are used in this manual:
Convention Indicates Example
Courier text User input In the Agent Information Form,

enter MIS in the New Contact
field.
System output After pressing the Apply
button, the system displays
the message
Transmitting data.
Bold command Path names Before you begin, read the
string readme.txt file located in
/usr/snm/agents.
Italic text in braces User-substituted Use the following command to
identifiers show port details:
SHOW PORT {slot.all} VERBOSE
Capitalized text in Keyboard entry Type your password and press
plain brackets by the user [ENTER].
Italics Text emphasis, Ensure that you press the Apply
document titles button after you add the new
search parameters.
ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide xv

Convention Indicates Example
Note: A Note. The Note: Use STP lobe

information is cables for your system.
important
Caution: A Caution. A Caution: Do not put
condition may your installation
damage diskettes on a
software or magnetic surface.
hardware This may damage the
diskettes.
Warning: A Warning. A Warning: Wear eye
condition may protection when
threaten performing these
personal safety maintenance
procedures.
Related Documents
This section provides information on supporting documentation, including:
3Com Documents
Reference Documents
xvi ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

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).
6-Slot ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation

Guide Explains how to install, operate, and manage the 3Com ONline
6-Slot System Concentrator.
ONline Token Ring Management Module Guide Explains how to install,

operate, and use the 3Com ONline Token Ring Management Module.
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., Scof fstall, 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 Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide xvii

1 Introduction
This chapter introduces you to the 3Com ONline Token Ring Fiber
Repeater Module, referenced throughout this manual as the Fiber Repeater
Module. Included is an overview of the features and a theory of operation
for the Fiber Repeater Module.
The Fiber Repeater Module

The Fiber Repeater Module provides fiber optic and copper trunk
connectivity between wiring closets in a 4 or 16 megabits-per-second
(Mbps) Token Ring Local Area Network (LAN). This module allows you to
connect to standard IEEE 802.5 Token Ring networks using both fiber and
copper media. Using the repeater function of the module's fiber Ring In
and Ring Out trunks, you can configure multi-floor and multi-building
networks with redundancy at the main ring path.
The Fiber Repeater Module works in the 3Com 6- or 17-Slot ONline System
Concentrator and provides the following features and benefits:
Contains built-in automatic wrap capability on the fiber and copper

ports to back up the ring in the event of a network failure
Provides automatic reconnection to the network when a break in the

fiber cable is repaired
Introduction 1 - 1
Contains two lobe ports for the connection of bridges or user
end-stations
Can be connected to one of seven token ring networks residing on

the backplane interface, or can be set to isolated mode (operate
independent of any backplane network)
Supports up to 2 km of 62.5/125 fiber cable, as well as other popular

sizes of fiber cable at adjusted distances
Supports hot-swap capability (the ability to insert and remove the

module in a live system)
Comes with AT&T's ST-type connectors
Includes extensive diagnostics for rapid troubleshooting
Theory of Operation
Every signal suffers attenuation as it travels from transmitting device to
receiving device. The longer the cable length between transmitting and
receiving devices, the weaker the signal becomes. To compensate for this,
repeaters are used to bolster the signal as it passes through the network.
The repeater reconstructs the signal (restores its original shape) and
retransmits it, thus improving data transmission. Thus, a Fiber Repeater
Module restores amplitude, phase, and frequency to the signal before it
reaches its destination.
Flexible Connections
The Fiber Repeater Module provides a variety of flexible connections via its
front panel and backplane interfaces. Figure 1-1 illustrates the Fiber
Repeater Module's faceplate.
1 - 2 ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

Figure 1-1. Fiber Repeater Module Front Panel Connections
Fiber Connections
The Fiber Repeater Module contains one pair of fiber receive/transmit ports
for Ring In and one pair of fiber receive/transmit ports for Ring Out. These
ports are primarily used to connect concentrators in different wiring closets
to the main trunk ring. Using the repeater function of the fiber Ring In and
Ring Out trunks, you can extend your network's maximum trunk distance
using 62.5/125 cable, as well as other sizes of fiber optic cable. You can
extend the distance between concentrators by up to two kilometers (via
62.5/125 cable) by installing a Fiber Repeater Module in each concentrator,
or by connecting the module to an IBM 8230 Controlled Access Unit (CAU).
Copper Connections
The module also provides a pair of copper RJ-45 Ring In and Ring Out
trunks for interconnecting the 3Com ONline Token Ring MAU Modules, or
Introduction 1 - 3
another vendor's Multistation Access Unit (MAU), via 150 ohm Shielded
Twisted Pair (STP) cable. For a wiring closet containing 3Com-only
equipment which is connected through the copper Ring In and Ring Out
trunks, complete fault tolerance is achieved through the use of Cable
Monitor Mode and 3Com TRCABLE-10 or TRCABLE-30 cable. For
configurations that use non-3Com equipment, fault tolerance is provided
using squelch detection. Squelch detection mode senses the loss of signal
on the RJ-45 connections and wraps the port if a fault condition occurs.
Lobe Ports
The Fiber Repeater Module provides two RJ-45 lobe ports to which you can
attach two additional 802.5-compliant stations such as bridges, routers, or
servers. A lobe port on the Fiber Repeater Module may be used in place of
a Media Module port to connect two distinct rings using a Token
Ring-to-Token Ring bridge.
Backplane Connections
Via the backplane interface, you can connect the Fiber Repeater Module to
other backplane-compatible 3Com Token Ring modules, such as the ONline
Token Ring Media Module. Network management or dip switch settings
determine which backplane Token Ring network will be used for data
transmission.
Enhanced Fault Tolerance

The Fiber Repeater Module provides three physical repeaters to ensure total
fault tolerance. The fiber main path, backup path, and the backplane
interface each contain a full repeater.
Fault tolerance is also achieved through the module's ability to

automatically loop back, or wrap, the network signal onto the backup path
when there is a network failure, such as a break in the fiber cable. In a
3Com-homogeneous environment, the module can sense when a cable
break has been repaired and automatically reroute the data back to the
main path.

In addition to implementing all the functions required by the 802.5
standard for copper ports, and following the recommendations of the
802.5 draft specification for fiber optic ports, this module provides the
following features above and beyond the standard:
Fault tolerance, via Cable Monitor Mode and squelch circuits, for
copper Ring In/Ring Out cabling between 3Com modules and
multivendor equipment
Fault tolerance, via 8230 Compatibility Mode, for fiber Ring In/Ring
Out cabling between the Fiber Repeater Module and an IBM 8230
CAU
The ability to connect to any ring on an ONline System Concentrator

backplane
Wrapping capability that allows ports on the module to be isolated

from the trunk ring
Management of the Fiber Repeater Module through ONline network

management
Introduction 1 - 5
2 Designing and
Expanding the Network
This chapter contains configuration information that will help you to design
your Token Ring network. Install all equipment using only approved cables
for proper operation. Refer to the IBM Token Ring Network Introduction
and Planning Guide for more information.
The following variables need to be considered when designing a network

for your Token Ring Fiber Repeater Modules:
Cable type
Ring speed
Maximum number of stations per ring
Maximum lobe and trunk cable lengths
Each of these variables is discussed in detail in the following sections. A

section on trunk topology contains guidelines for dealing with these
variables in both single and multiple wiring closet configurations. Also
included in this chapter is a section on typical backbone configurations
using the Fiber Repeater Module.
Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 1

General Configuration Information
The Fiber Repeater Module offers three types of connections: two pairs of
fully-repeated fiber Ring In/Ring Out trunks, a pair of non-repeated copper
Ring In/Ring Out ports, and two RJ-45 lobe ports. For maximum fault
tolerance, 3Com recommends using the fiber Ring In/Ring Out trunks to
connect wiring closets to the main trunk ring. Fiber Repeater Modules
must be used in pairs to connect two concentrators on the main ring, or a
Fiber Repeater Module may be connected to an IBM 8230 Controlled
Access Unit (CAU).
The copper Ring In/Ring Out connections should be used for

interconnecting 3Com Token Ring MAU Modules (model number
5208M-TP) or external multistation access units (MAUs), such as the IBM
8228 MAU. The copper ports may also be used to connect concentrators
that are in the same wiring closet. Since the copper ports do not contain
repeaters, they should not be used for connectivity between wiring closets.
Caution: Do not attempt to connect two Fiber Repeater Modules

using the fiber Ring In/Ring Out trunks and the copper
Ring In/Ring Out trunks simultaneously on both
modules. This type of configuration, which will
segment the ring into two distinct rings, is illustrated in
Figure 2-1. In addition, if both of the following two
conditions are true, the ring will become segmented if
you attempt to connect two Fiber Repeater Modules
within the same concentrator:
1. Both modules are configured for the same backplane ring.
2. The two modules are connected using the fiber trunks on both
modules OR the modules are connected using the copper trunks on
both modules.

Figure 2-1. Invalid Fiber Repeater Configuration
Keep the following additional guidelines in mind when planning your

network configuration:
The fiber trunk connections on the Fiber Repeater Module can extend
the distance between ONline System Concentrators by up to two
kilometers using 62.5/125 micron fiber optic cable. Refer to
Appendix A of this guide for optical specifications.
Use only Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) cable on the copper Ring
In/Ring Out ports. STP and Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cable may
be used on the lobe ports.
Two or more distinct rings can be bridged together using a Token

Ring-to-Token Ring bridge, such as the ONline Token Ring Bridge
Module. A lobe port on the Fiber Repeater Module will
accommodate such a connection in order to avoid having to use a
lobe port on the Token Ring Media Module. The lobe ports may be
used to attach any 802.5-compliant end station.

Cable Types and Ring Speeds
Cable type and length requirements vary depending on whether your
network ring is operating at 4 or 16 Mbps. If you are designing a 4 Mbps
network with the intent that you will not want to upgrade to 16 Mbps, use
the 4 Mbps cable configuration rules. If you are designing a 16 Mbps
network, or a 4 Mbps network that you plan to upgrade to 16 Mbps at a
later time, use the cabling configuration rules specific to 16 Mbps networks.
Maximum Number of Stations

The 1989 802.5 standard for Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) networks
recommends that no more than 250 stations be connected to a single ring.
This recommendation applies to both 4 Mbps and 16 Mbps networks.
The IEEE Recommended Practices for Use of Unshielded Twisted Pair Cable
(UTP) for Token Ring Data Transmission at 4 Mb/s specifies that no more
than 72 stations be connected to a single ring when using UTP wiring.
Although no IEEE standard currently governs the use of UTP cable for 16
Mbps networks, 3Com recommends a maximum of 150 stations. Note that
a mixed configuration of modules using STP and UTP in a 4 Mbps network
should comply with the UTP standard of 72 stations.
Note that the maximum station count is also affected by the types of
adapter cards used in your configuration. Refer to the documentation that
comes with your adapter card for more information.
Note: If the adapter card vendor supports a number of stations

less than 150 (as stated above), then the number specified
by the vendor must be used when determining the
maximum number of stations in your network.
When implementing Token Ring networks, it is desirable to configure the

rings with less than the specified maximum number of stations. Bridges
may be used to interconnect smaller rings into a single logical network.

3Com does not support the use of fan out devices that expand a lobe port
to allow multiple connections to one lobe port. These devices may cause
unpredictable results with certain network management applications.
Fiber Repeater Station Count

Because the Fiber Repeater Module contains a full repeater in the fiber
main path and a full repeater in the backplane interface, the module is
counted as two stations. If the fiber backup path is also used, the module
is counted as three stations. Since it's difficult to know whether the fiber
backup path is in use, 3Com recommends always counting the Fiber
Repeater Module as three stations.
Maximum Lobe Lengths

The 1989 802.5 standard specifies that the channel, defined as the
transmission path from the medium interface connector (MIC) of one
transmitter to the MIC of the next receiver in line, should not exceed a
maximum attenuation of 22 dB for 4 Mbps networks or 19 dB for 16 Mbps
networks. The recommended lobe lengths specified in this chapter are
based on the channel attenuation, cabling losses, and losses due to other
cabling components.
The horizontal lobe distance is the length of the furthest node from the
module. Determine the longest lobe cable that can be included in your
network and then verify that all additional lobe cables are shorter than the
maximum length. In situations where the network spans multiple wiring
closets via the copper Ring In/Ring Out ports, 3Com recommends that lobe
lengths be limited to 100 meters.
Table 2-1 identifies maximum lobe lengths for 4 Mbps networks using STP
and UTP cables in a single closet configuration.

Note: When attaching devices using UTP, you must use a media
filter to convert the output of the adapter from STP to UTP
operation. If your adapter card does not include a media
filter, you must use a media filter such as the 3Com Media
Filter (model number 5201F-UTP).
Table 2-1. Maximum Lobe Lengths (in Meters)
UTP/Level 4
Ring Speed STP Cable UTP/Level 3 Cable
and 5 Cables
4 Mbps 350 150 125

16 Mbps 175 100 Contact 3Com
Customer Support for
guidelines on using
UTP/Level 3 cable for 16
Mbps ring speeds.
Lobe Cabling: STP

Single concentrator configurations can achieve maximum distances for lobe
connections using IBM STP cable (types 1, 2, 6, or 9). For 4 Mbps rings,
horizontal lobes can be as long as 350 meters using STP cable. For 16 Mbps
rings, horizontal lobes may be as long as 175 meters. The horizontal lobe
distance is the length of the furthest node from the concentrator. To
maintain the performance of a robust network design, the wiring you use
should meet or exceed the specifications defined in Table 2-2.

Table 2-2. Specifications for Shielded Twisted Pair 4 and 16 Mbps
Network Cable
Characteristics 4 MHz 16 MHz
Impedance 150 + 15 ohm 150 + 15 ohm

Attenuation 2.2 dB 4.5 dB
(dB/100 m)
Crosstalk -40 dB -40 dB
(dB maximum)
Note: The attenuation listed in Table 2-2 applies to cables at a

temperature of 25 Celsius. The use of cables in an
environment with temperatures higher than 25 Celsius
may result in decreased distances. Refer to the Planning
and Installation Guide for Customer Premises Cabling to
Support Attachment of ISO 8802-5 Token Ring Stations for
more details.
For example, Table 2-2 specifies a maximum attenuation of 2.2 dB for every
100 meters of STP cable on a 4 Mbps network and, as specified in
Table 2-1, the maximum lobe length for a single concentrator operating on
a 4 Mbps network is 350 meters of STP cable. Multiplying 2.2 dB x 7
meters (350 meters for the transmit path + 350 meters for the receive path
= 700 meters) equals 15.4 dB. This loss is well below the 22 dB set by the
802.5 standard, and allows an adequate margin for losses incurred by other
devices, as well as a worst case scenario in which there is a break in the
network and the backup path must be used.

Lobe Cabling: UTP/Level 4
Level 4 unshielded twisted pair (UTP) may be used for horizontal wiring in 4
Mbps and 16 Mbps Token Ring networks. For 4 Mbps rings, horizontal
lobes can be as long as 150 meters. For 16 Mbps rings, horizontal lobes
should not exceed 100 meters. To maintain maximum performance of your
network design, wiring used should meet or exceed the specifications
defined in Table 2-3. For additional in-formation on UTP cable
specifications, refer to the EIA/TIA Bulletin: Technical Systems Bulletin,
Additional Cable Specifications for Unshielded Twisted Pair Cables, TSB-36,
November 1991, Electronic Industries Association.
Table 2-3. Specifications for Unshielded Twisted Pair 4 and 16 Mbps

Network Cable
Characteristics 4 MHz 16 MHz
Impedance 90 - 110 ohms 90 - 110 ohms

Attenuation 4.2 dB 8.2 dB
(dB/100 m)
Crosstalk -32 dB -32 dB
(dB maximum)
Lobe Cabling: UTP/Level 3

If you are using UTP/Level 3 cable, horizontal wiring should not exceed 125
meters in length when operating at 4 Mbps.
Contact your 3Com distributor or 3Com Customer Support for guidelines

and specifications on using UTP/Level 3 cable for 16 Mbps ring speeds.

Maximum Copper Ring In/Ring Out Trunk Lengths
The maximum recommended copper Ring In/Ring Out trunk lengths vary
depending on ring speed, the number of concentrators (MAUs) on the ring,
and the type of lobe cable being used (STP or UTP).
Note: Use only STP cabling to connect devices through the copper
Ring In and Ring Out trunks.
Table 2-4 and Table 2-5 define the maximum copper trunk lengths for 4
Mbps networks and 16 Mbps networks, respectively. The trunk lengths
identified in these tables assume that no lobe cable in the network exceeds
100 meters.
As previously stated, these recommendations are based on the 22 dB

maximum attenuation allowance specified by the 802.5 standard. If, for
example, you are using STP cable to connect five concentrators on a 4
Mbps network, you will need to limit your trunk length to 300 meters to
ensure data integrity in a worst case scenario. Multiplying 2.2 dB x 6 (300
meters for the transmit path + 300 meters for the receive path = 600
meters) equals 13.2 dB. This loss is well below the 22 dB set by the 802.5
standard, and allows adequate margin for communication between
stations with 100 meter lobe lengths. This calculation also includes
adequate margin for losses incurred by other devices and a worst case
scenario in which there is a break in the network and the backup path must
be used

.

Networks
Maximum Trunk Lengths Using:

Number of
Concentra- STP Lobe UTP Level 5 UTP Level 4 UTP Level 3
tors/MAUs Cable Lobe Cable Lobe Cable Lobe Cable
2 355 264 264 205

3 336 245 245 186
4 318 227 227 168
5 300 209 209 150
6 282 191 191 132
7 264 173 173 114
8 245 155 155 95
9 227 136 136 77
10 209 118 118 59
11 191 100 100 41
12 173 82 82 23
13 155 64 64 5
14 136 45 45
15 118 27 27
16 100 9 9
17 82
18 64

Networks (Continued)

Number of
Concentra- STP Lobe UTP Level 5 UTP Level 4 UTP Level 3
tors/MAUs Cable Lobe Cable Lobe Cable Lobe Cable
19 45
20 27
Table 2-5. Maximum Trunk Lengths for 16 Mbps Networks

Number of
Concentrators/ STP Lobe UTP Level 5 UTP Level 4
MAUs Cable Lobe Cable Lobe Cable
2 111 29 16
3 102 20 7
4 93 11
5 84 2
6 76
7 67
8 58
9 49
10 40
11 31
12 22
13 13
14 4

Note: The use of UTP Level 3 cable in 16 Mbps networks is not
recommended.
Sample Valid Configuration

Figure 2-2 provides an example of a valid configuration using the rules
outlined in the previous section. In this example, three concentrators and
one external MAU are connected together using the copper trunk
connections. The longest lobe in the network is 100 meters of STP cable.
For a 4 Mbps network, the maximum trunk length for connecting four
concentrators/MAUs using STP cable is 318 meters, as defined in Table 2-4.
If you add the cable lengths shown in Figure 2-2, the total trunk distance is
245 meters. Thus, the configuration is legitimate.
Figure 2-2. Valid Token Ring Configuration

Single and Multiple Wiring Closet Networks
This section provides examples of recommended configurations using the
Fiber Repeater Module in single and multiple wiring closet networks.
Single Closet Configurations

This section provides recommendations for connecting the Fiber Repeater
Module to other Token Ring products in a single wiring closet
configuration.

Figure 2-3 illustrates how a Fiber Repeater Module in one concentrator can
be used to interconnect multiple Token Ring MAU Modules in the same
wiring closet via the copper Ring In/Ring Out ports. In this example, the
fiber trunk connections are used for attachment to the main trunk ring.
Concentrator A
TRCABLE-10 or
TRCABLE-30
Concentrator B
Figure 2-3. Interconnection of Fiber Repeater and MAU Modules in a

Single Closet
The Fiber Repeater Module can be connected to 3Com Token Ring Media
Modules via the backplane interface. Figure 2-4 provides an example of a
highly fault tolerant single wiring closet configuration in which the
backplane connects the Fiber Repeater and Media Modules.

Backplane Ring 2
Concentrator A
Fiber
Media Modules Backplane Ring 2
Repeater
Concentrator B
Fiber
Repeater Media Modules
Figure 2-4. Fiber Repeater and Media Modules Connected Via

Backplane
In the above example, the fiber Ring In on the Fiber Repeater Module in
Concentrator A and the fiber Ring Out on the Fiber Repeater Module in
Concentrator B are used to connect both concentrators to the main trunk.
In addition, both concentrators share the same backplane ring.
Multiple Closet Configurations

This section provides examples of common configurations using the Fiber
Repeater Module in multiple wiring closet configurations.

To achieve maximum distance between wiring closets and the greatest
amount of fault tolerance, it is recommended that the fiber trunks on the
Fiber Repeater Module be used to connect wiring closets to the main trunk
ring. In the configuration shown in Figure 2-5, if there is a fault in the fiber
cable (such as a break), the signal will wrap to the backup path and the
ring will be automatically reconfigured when the cable has been repaired.
FLOOR 1 FLOOR 2
Fiber Trunk
Figure 2-5. Multiple Closet Configuration

Backbone Configuration Examples
This section describes and illustrates typical configurations in which the
Fiber Repeater Module is used to provide backbone connectivity. The
following configurations are covered:
Traditional Backbone Ring
Collapsed Backbone
Redundant, Load-Sharing Backbone
Extended Ring
Traditional Backbone Ring

The traditional backbone ring configuration assumes that each floor or
department in an organization forms its own Token Ring LAN. A Token
Ring-to-Token Ring Bridge connects each LAN to a backbone LAN, thereby
allowing communication between users on different LANs. The backbone
LAN extends through the riser of the building through the Fiber Repeater
Modules.
In this scenario, the backbone ring consists of a Fiber Repeater Module in

each ONline Concentrator. All Fiber Repeater Modules must be assigned to
the same backplane ring or set to isolated mode. The Token Ring Bridge
Modules and Token Ring Media Modules communicate over the same
backplane ring. Figure 2-6 is an illustration of a fiber backbone network
connecting three ONline Concentrators on different floors of a building.

Ring 2
Ring 1
A
I
1
Ring 2
TR Bridge Module
Ring 1 Ring 5
A
I
1
Ring 5
TR Bridge Module
Ring 1 Ring 4
A
I
1
Ring 4
TR Bridge Module
Figure 2-6. Traditional Backbone Configuration
Collapsed Backbone Configuration

Networks that use a collapsed backbone result in reduced costs, enhanced
security, and controlled access to networking equipment. This architecture
enables a network manager to centralize major networking devices such as
departmental file servers, protocol analyzers, bridges, routers, and more, in
one controlled area, such as in a computer room.

In Figure 2-7, a master ONline Concentrator is located in the central
computer room on Floor 1 of a three-story building. The concentrators on
Floors 2 and 3 both contain Fiber Repeater Modules that extend through
the vertical riser of the building into the Fiber Repeater Module in the
master concentrator. The master concentrator in this example has two
Fiber Repeater Modules; one for each departmental ring floor. The traffic
that is sent by the departmental LANs travels directly to the master
concentrator.
Management Modules Finance Department - Ring 1

Token Ring
Fiber
Repeater 17-Slot ONline System
Module Concentrator
Token Ring Media Modules

Engineering Department - Ring 2
17-Slot ONline
System
Concentrator
Central Computer Room - Ring 3

Management
Protocol
Analyzer
Token Ring Network

Bridge Modules Management
Station
AS/400 Corporate
Database
Finance File Engineering Accouting System
Server File Server
Figure 2-7. Collapsed Backbone Configuration

Figure 2-7 shows how the departmental LAN servers are located in the
centralized network room and connect directly to the lobe ports on the
Fiber Repeater Modules in the master concentrator (each module is
configured with a specific floor ring). In addition, instead of having to
rack-mount bridges on the different floors, each two-port bridge can be
attached directly to the master concentrator by connecting one port to a
lobe port on the Fiber Repeater Module and one port to a lobe port on a
Token Ring Media Module. The Token Ring Media Module (and possibly
other modules on the backplane) is now the backbone LAN. A shared
minicomputer, such as an AS/400, can be connected to a lobe port on the
Media Module for access by all departments.
Redundant, Load-Sharing Backbone

The load-balancing capabilities provided by the ONline Token Ring Bridge
Module help build higher-capacity, fault-tolerant backbone networks. The
combination of the Token Ring Bridge Module and a Fiber Repeater
Module connects the local ring to the backbone ring. In each concentrator,
a Token Ring Bridge Module uses its backplane connection to enter a ring
of ONline Token Ring Media Modules on one of the concentrator's
backplane networks. The Token Ring Bridge Module's front panel port
connects to a lobe port on the front panel of a Fiber Repeater Module. The
Fiber Repeater Module increases the transmission distance of the signal,
allowing it to reach the backbone ring. An example of the load-sharing
backbone architecture is provided in Figure 2-8.

16 M bps 16 M bps
F iber Backbo ne F iber Bac kbo ne
Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module

Token Ring Bridge Module
20-Port Token Ring Media Module
Fault-Tolerant Controller Module
Token Ring Management Module
Figure 2-8. Redundant, Load-Sharing Backbone

Single Extended Ring Configuration
The single extended ring configuration connects users on distant points of
a network to one extended local area network. This configuration
accommodates organizations that have users dispersed in different areas of
a building and want them configured into one Token Ring LAN. The role of
the Fiber Repeater Module in this configuration is to provide main trunk
connectivity between distant ONline Concentrators.
For example, Figure 2-9 shows an extended ring spanning concentrators in

a building. The Token Ring Media Modules in each concentrator on Floor 1
and Floor 2 are configured on the same backplane ring (in this case, all
modules are assigned to Ring 1). The Fiber Repeater and Media Modules
should be assigned to the same backplane ring in both concentrators so
that a single data path is used for data transmission.
Ring 1
A
I
1
Floor 2
Ring 1
Modules assigned to
backplane Ring 1
A
I
1
Floor 1
Ring 1
Ring 1
Figure 2-9. Single Extended Ring Configuration

3 Installing and
Operating the Module
This chapter describes the installation procedures for the Fiber Repeater
Module. Please read the precautionary procedures before unpacking the
module.
For your convenience, a quick reference installation chart has been

included. The remainder of the chapter describes:
Dip switch and jumper settings
Module installation into the ONline System Concentrator
Module configuration
Module LED interpretations
LED and network verification
Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 1

Precautionary Procedures
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage static-sensitive devices on circuit
boards. To avoid this kind of damage, use the following precautions when
handling the Fiber Repeater Module:
Do not remove the board from its anti-static shielding bag until you
are ready to inspect it.
Handle the board by the faceplate only.
Use proper grounding techniques when you inspect and install the
module. These techniques include using a foot strap and grounded
mat or wearing a grounded static discharge wrist strap. An alternate
method is to touch the grounded rack or other source of ground just
before you handle the module.
Unpacking Procedures
Use the following procedure when unpacking your Fiber Repeater Module.
1. Verify that the module is the correct model by matching the model
number listed on the side of the shipping carton to the model
number you ordered (5202M-FR).
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 the
module for damage. Always handle the module by the faceplate,
being careful not to touch the components.
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.

3Com suggests you keep the shipping carton and anti-static shielding bag
in which your module was shipped in case you later want to repackage the
module for storage or shipment.
We also suggest that you record the serial number of your Fiber Repeater
Module. We have provided a log for this and other information specific to
your modules under the Slot Usage Chart in Appendix B of the ONline
System Concentrator Installation and Operation Guide.
Quick Installation
Table 3-1 outlines the steps necessary to complete the installation of your
module. If you are familiar with these instructions, you may want to use
this table as a checklist. Otherwise, consult the remainder of this chapter.
Table 3-1. Quick Installation Procedures
Step Procedure Reference
1. Verify that your network complies with Designing and

the basic rules for network design. Expanding the
Network (Chapter 2)
2. Unpack the module. Unpacking
Procedures
3. If you do not have a management Setting the Dip
module installed in the concentrator, Switches
configure the dip switch settings to
your specifications.
4. Configure the jumpers on the module Setting the Jumpers
to the appropriate setting. The jumper
settings must be configured manually
since network management cannot
override them.

Table 3-1. Quick Installation Procedures (Continued)
Step Procedure Reference
5. Insert the module into a blank slot in Installing the Module

the concentrator and tighten the
faceplate screws.
6. Establish connections from the Fiber Module Connections
Repeater Module to other modules or
devices using the appropriate
connectors and cabling.
7. If you have a management module Configuring the
installed in the concentrator, configure Module
the module using the management
commands.
8. Verify LED status for normal operation. LED and Network
Note: For potential problems, consult Verification
the troubleshooting techniques in
Chapter 4.
Setting the Dip Switches

The Fiber Repeater Module has two eight-position dip switch components
(SW1 and SW2). All of the dip switch settings on this module are ignored if
an ONline network management module is installed in the same
concentrator. For this reason, 3Com recommends that you use the network
management commands, rather than the dip switches, to configure the
module. Refer to the Configuring the Module section in this chapter for
more information.
Two of the dip switches, backplane enable and single/multiple rings, are
described in the section, Dip Switch Functionality. The remaining functions
are covered in the Configuring the Module section.

Figure 3-1 shows the location and default settings of the dip switches and
jumpers (refer to the section in this chapter, Setting the Jumpers, for more
information on the jumper settings). You may need to reconfigure one or
more of these switches, depending on your configuration requirements.
Indicators
Copper RO Enable
RO Cable Monitor
Copper RI Enable
RI Cable Monitor
Fiber RO Enable
Fiber RI Enable
Fiber RI/RO
Labe1 Enable
Labe2 Enable
Copper RI/RO
Lobe Ports 1&2
Backplane
SW1
Fiber RI 1
ON
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
SW2
Fiber RO 1 JP1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
S ingle/Multiple R ings
4/16 Mbps
Backplane Enable
Ring In 8230 Mode
Res erved
R in g Out 82 30 Mode
R eserved
R eserved
Lobe Port 1
Lobe Port 2 JP2
Copper RI 2
Backplane DIN
Copper RO 2
Connector
Figure 3-1. Fiber Repeater Module Dip Switch Locations
Note: All dip switches labeled Reserved are factory-set to the

appropriate default position and should not be changed.

Dip Switch SW1
The SW1 component on the Fiber Repeater Module contains eight dip
switches. These switches allow you to:
Enable or disable the two lobe ports
Enable or disable the copper Ring In and Ring Out ports
Enable or disable the fiber Ring In and Ring Out trunks
Enable or disable Cable Monitor Mode for the copper Ring In and
Ring Out ports
Table 3-2 lists and describes the dip switch settings on SW1.
Note: All functions are enabled with the relevant switch in the ON
(up) position.
Table 3-2. SW1 Dip Switch Settings and Interpretations
Switch Setting
Factory
Switch Label Function
Default
Off On
1 Lobe 1 Enable/disable Enable Disable Enable

Enable Lobe Port 1
2 Lobe 2 Enable/disable Enable Disable Enable
Enable Lobe Port 2
3 Copper Enable/disable Enable Disable Enable
RI Enable Copper Ring In
4 Copper Enable/disable Enable Disable Enable
RI Enable Copper Ring In
5 Fiber RO Enable/disable Enable Disable Enable
Enable Fiber Ring Out

Table 3-2. SW1 Dip Switch Settings and Interpretations (Continued)
Switch Setting
Factory
Default
Off On
6 Fiber RO Enable/disable Enable Disable Enable

Enable Fiber Ring Out
7 RI Cable Enable/disable Disable Disable Enable
Monitor Cable Monitor
Mode on
copper Ring In
8 RO Cable Enable/disable Disable Disable Enable
Monitor Cable Monitor
Mode on
copper Ring
Out
Dip Switch SW2

Like SW1, the SW2 component on the Fiber Repeater Module contains
eight dip switches. Note that dip switches 6 through 8 are not used. The
remaining dip switches allow you to:
Set the ring speed for the module
Configure the module to operate on one backplane ring or on

multiple rings
Enable or disable use of the backplane interface
Enable or disable 8230 Compatibility Mode on the fiber Ring In/Ring

Out ports
Table 3-3 lists and describes the dip switch settings on SW2.

Note: All functions are enabled with the relevant switch in the ON
(up) position.
Table 3-3. SW2 Dip Switch Settings and Interpretations
Factory Switch Setting

Default Of f On
1 4/16 Mbps Select 4 or 16 16 4 16

Mbps ring Mbps Mbps Mbps
speed
2 Single/Multiple Configure One One Multiple
Rings module for ring ring rings
one ring or
multiple rings
3 Backplane Enable/disable Enable Disable Enable
Enable backplane
4 Fiber Ring Out Enable/disable Disable Disable Enable
Compatibility IBM 8230
Mode Compatibility
Mode on fiber
Ring Out port
5 Fiber Ring In Enable/disable Disable Disable Enable
Compatibility IBM 8230
Mode Compatibility
Mode on fiber
Ring In port
6-8 Reserved Not used

Dip Switch Functionality
Most of the functions available through the dip switches on the Fiber
Repeater Module can also be set through network management. These
functions include enabling/disabling lobe ports and Ring In/Ring Out
trunks, enabling/disable Cable Monitor Mode, enabling/disabling
Compatibility Mode, and setting the ring speed. These functions are
described in the Configuring the Module section of this chapter. Two
features, however, are unique to the dip switches. These include:
Enabling or disabling the backplane
Setting the module for one or multiple backplane rings
Backplane Enable
In an unmanaged environment, you can enable or disable use of the
backplane interface on the Fiber Repeater Module using dip switch 3 on
SW2. The backplane is used to establish cable-less connections from the
Fiber Repeater Module to other 3Com Token Ring modules, such as the
ONline Token Ring Media Module. When enabled, the backplane interface
enables you to configure the module to operate on a single backplane ring
or on multiple rings. When network management is available, the module
can be configured for one of seven internal rings or set to isolated mode.
It is important to note that when the backplane is enabled, a new module

that is inserted into an unmanaged concentrator will not be recognized by
other modules on the backplane until you force a ring reconfiguration. In
addition to its other functions, the LED check button on the ONline
Controller Module is used to perform this function (refer to the section, LED
and Network Verification, for a discussion about the button's other
functions).
Use the following procedure anytime you add a new module to an

unmanaged concentrator that is expected to communicate over the
backplane. Perform the following steps to re-initialize the backplane:
Press the LED button three times, quickly. The second and third
presses must be within one second of each other.

A clicking sound indicates that the backplane is being re-initialized. The
module is now ready to recognize and communicate with other modules
over the backplane. If a module failure should occur in an unmanaged
concentrator, you must also use this procedure to re-initialize the module
once the problem has been corrected.
Single/Multiple Rings
If network management is not available, dip switch 2 on SW2 enables you
to create one backplane ring or multiple rings. If the module is set to one
ring, all modules in the concentrator are configured to operate on the same
backplane ring. Thus, the Fiber Repeater Module can repeat and transmit
data to any of the modules on the ring.
The modules in the concentrator can be segmented into three rings by

configuring the dip switch for multiple rings, if you have a 17-Slot
Concentrator, or for two rings if you have a 6-Slot Concentrator. The slot in
which the module resides determines its network (ring) assignment.
It is not necessary for you to place modules directly next to one another in
order for them to communicate on the same ring. However, you must
place them in the appropriate slots that correspond to that ring. Table 3-4
defines the slot assignments for multiple rings in a 17-Slot Concentrator
and Table 3-5 defines the slot assignments in a 6-Slot Concentrator.

Note: Token Ring modules in an unmanaged concentrator must
all be set to one ring or must all be set to multiple rings via
the dip switch. There may be unpredictable results if the
settings are not the same.
Also note that in a concentrator that does not contain a

management module, the concentrator may be occupied
only by Token Ring modules. That is, Token Ring and
Ethernet modules cannot coexist in an unmanaged
concentrator.
Table 3-4. Ring/Slot Assignments for a 17-Slot Concentrator*
Ring Number Slot Assignments
One 1, 2, and 3
Two 4 through 9
Three 10 through 15
*Modules in slots 16 and 17 are isolated.
Table 3-5. Ring/Slot Assignments for a 6-Slot Concentrator
Ring Number Slot Assignments
One 1, 2, and 3
Two 4, 5, and 6
For example, a Fiber Repeater Module in slot 4 of a 17-Slot ONline System

Concentrator can communicate with all modules on Ring 2; this would
include the modules in slots 5 through 9.

Setting the Jumpers
The Fiber Repeater Module has two on-board jumpers: JP1 and JP2. These
jumpers enable you to select the appropriate cable impedance for Lobe
Ports 1 and 2, respectively. You must manually change the jumper settings
since network management cannot override them.
With a jumper in the left position, the port is selected for 150 ohm
impedance. With a jumper in the right position, the port is selected for 100
ohm impedance. Table 3-6 defines selection of these jumpers and
Figure 3-2 shows the correct left and right jumper positions.
Table 3-6. Jumper Settings and Functions
Jumper Position Port Impedance Station Cable Types
Left 150 ohms IBM STP types 1, 2, 6, or 9

Right 100 ohms UTP types 3, 4, or 5 100
ohm cable, such as AT&T
2261
Setting for STP Setting for UTP
Figure 3-2. Jumper Settings

Installing the Module
You do not need to power down the ONline System Concentrator to install
the Fiber Repeater Module. You can insert or remove the module while the
concentrator is operating (this is called a hot swap). Follow the steps below
to install the Fiber Repeater Module.
1. Perform one of the following steps:

If a network management module is installed in the concentrator,
perform Steps 2 through 5 and follow the guidelines provided in the
section, Module Connections. After you have installed and connected
the module, use the information in the Configuring the Module
section to configure the appropriate settings.
If network management is not available, set the dip switches on the
board to the settings you want, if different than the default values.
Refer to Tables 3-2 and 3-3 for an explanation of the dip switch
settings. Also, refer to Tables 3-4 and 3-5 for information about slot
dependencies, if applicable. Then proceed to Step 2.
2. Set the jumpers to the appropriate position. The two jumpers, JP1
and JP2, are used to set the cable impedance for the two lobe ports
on the module. The jumper settings must be changed manually (that
is, cable impedance cannot be set through network management).
Refer to Table 3-6 for an explanation of the jumper settings.
3. Locate a blank slot in the concentrator. If there is no blank slot, you

must remove a blank panel on the concentrator to expose a slot for
the module.
4. Insert the module into the board guides at the top and bottom of the
slot and slide it into the concentrator. Make sure the connector is
well seated into the backplane of the concentrator.

Figure 3-3 shows the installation of the Fiber Repeater Module.
Figure 3-3. Installing the Fiber Repeater Module
5. Fasten the spring-loaded screws on the front of the module faceplate

to the concentrator with your fingers (do not overtighten).
Module Connections
The Fiber Repeater Module can be connected to other modules and devices
in a variety of ways, depending on the requirements of your network. Refer
to Chapter 2, Designing and Expanding the Network, for examples of
recommended configurations.
Use the following general guidelines when establishing physical

connections from the Fiber Repeater Module to other devices.
Fiber Ring In/Ring Out Connections

In a typical configuration, Fiber Repeater Modules in separate wiring closets
are connected to the trunk ring through the fiber Ring In and Ring Out
ports. Perform the following steps to establish this connection.

1. Remove the plastic fiber covers from the cable ports that will be used.
Keep the unused cable ports capped to keep the optics clean.
2. Attach the fiber cables to the fiber ports on the front panel of the
module as shown in Figure 3-4. Make sure the transmit and receive
cables are clearly marked or color coded and that they are connected
to the appropriate ports on the module (i.e., the fiber Ring In receive
is connected to a fiber Ring Out transmit and the fiber Ring In
transmit is connected to a fiber Ring Out receive). Also, make certain
these cables have been properly cleaned with an appropriate fiber
optic cleaning solution before installing them.
Figure 3-4. Sample Fiber Repeater Module Connection
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.

3. Attach the other end of the cable to the fiber ports on a Fiber
Repeater Module in a concentrator in another wiring closet. Make
sure the transmit fiber at one end of the cable is always connected to
a receive port at the other end, and that a Ring In port always
connects to a Ring Out port on the other end.
If you connect two Fiber Repeater Modules together, verify that 8230
Compatibility Mode has been disabled. If you connect the Fiber Repeater
Module to an IBM 8230 Controlled Access Unit (CAU), 8230 Compatibility
Mode must be enabled. Refer to the section in this chapter titled
Configuring the Module for more information about 8230 Compatibility
Mode.
Copper Ring In/Ring Out Connections

The primary purpose for the copper Ring In and Ring Out ports is
interconnecting the Fiber Repeater Module and ONline Token Ring MAU
Modules in a concentrator. This configuration is reflected in Figure 3-4.
To connect the Fiber Repeater Module to a MAU Module in the same

concentrator, attach one end of the twisted pair cable (STP-type only) to
the copper Ring Out port on the front of the Fiber Repeater Module.
Attach the other end to the copper Ring In port on the MAU Module.
Interconnect any remaining MAU Modules using each module's Ring
In/Ring Out ports. Be sure to make connections using both the copper Ring
In and Ring Out ports to form a full ring. For maximum fault tolerance
between the Fiber Repeater and MAU Modules, Cable Monitor Mode
should be enabled on the modules and you should use the special 3Com
TRCABLE-10 or TRCABLE-30 cables.
To provide maximum fault tolerance for configurations that use

multivendor equipment, the local ring should always start and end with the
copper Ring In and Ring Out ports. In addition, Cable Monitor Mode must
be disabled for the modules. The configuration illustrated in Figure 3-5
shows how the copper ports are used to connect two IBM 8228 MAUs.

8228 8228
IBM MAUs
Figure 3-5. Multivendor Configuration
Lobe Port Connections

The two lobe ports on the Fiber Repeater Module let you attach up to two
additional end stations such as bridges, routers, or servers. Note that these
ports cannot be used to interconnect modules. The lobe ports should also
not be used to connect fan out devices as this could cause unpredictable
results.
Backplane Connections
Use the backplane interface to connect the Fiber Repeater Module to other
ONline Token Ring modules on the same Token Ring network or to other
Fiber Repeater Modules.

Configuring the Module
An ONline network management module provides network management
capabilities for the ONline System Concentrator and its modules. With a
network management module, all the dip switch settings on the Fiber
Repeater Module are ignored.
You can configure the following settings on the module using network
management:
Enable/disable the lobe ports on the module
Enable/disable any trunk (copper or fiber Ring In/Ring Out) on the

module
Enable/disable Cable Monitor Mode on the copper Ring In/Ring Out

ports
Enable/disable 8230 Compatibility Mode on the fiber Ring In/Ring

Out trunks
Set the ring speed
Set the module to a specific Token Ring network
Configure the module as an internal or external network map source
When you first install the module in a managed concentrator, the ports and
trunks are automatically disabled so unapproved users cannot be added.
Therefore, you must enable the ports you wish to use through
management commands. All other module settings retain the same default
values as the dip switch default values, so you will only need to change
these values through management if you do not want the default values.
This section briefly describes the management commands to set these

features. Refer to the appropriate network management module
installation and operation guide for additional information on available
network management features.

Note: If network management is not available, configure the
module using the dip switches as previously described in
the Setting the Dip Switches section.
Port Enable
You can enable or disable the lobe ports on the Fiber Repeater Module.
When a port is enabled, it can transmit data onto and receive data from
the network to which the module is assigned.
Use the following network management command to enable or disable a

lobe port:
SET PORT {slot.port} MODE {enable}
{slot.all} {disable}
Trunk Enable
You can enable or disable any of the fiber or copper Ring In or Ring Out
trunks on the module. For the following commands, enter 1 as the trunk
variable for fiber Ring In or Ring Out trunks or 2 as the trunk variable for
copper Ring In or Ring Out trunks. Use the following network management
command to enable or disable fiber or copper Ring In trunks:
SET TRUNK {slot} RING_IN. {trunk} MODE {enable}
{disable}
Use the following command to enable or disable fiber or copper Ring Out
trunks:
SET TRUNK {slot} RING_OUT. {trunk} MODE {enable}
{disable}

Copper Ring In/Ring Out Cable Monitor Mode
The Fiber Repeater Module incorporates a special mode for copper Ring
In/Ring Out cables when connecting 3Com modules within the same
concentrator. When Cable Monitor Mode is enabled, and the module
senses a cable fault, it automatically disables the trunk and wraps the ring
to keep it up and running. The module is shipped from the factory with
Cable Monitor Mode disabled.
For example, normal operation of the ring shown in Figure 3-6 is clockwise
along the solid line. However, if the copper Ring Out trunk on Module B
fails (or if the cable is broken), that trunk and the copper Ring In trunk on
Module C are shut down. The ring is maintained by wrapping the signal
with Modules B and C and sending the network data frames along the
unused backup wire pairs in the trunk cable as shown in the second part of
Figure 3-6.
Note: You must use 3Com TRCABLE-10 or TRCABLE-30 cable to

connect two modules when using Cable Monitor Mode.
Other RJ-45 cables will not support this feature.
Normal Operation Wrapped Operation
Break in Cable
Figure 3-6. Link Redundancy Between Token Ring Modules

When you use the copper Ring In/Ring Out trunks to connect the ONline
Fiber Repeater Module to another vendor's Token Ring product (for
example, a Token Ring MAU), Cable Monitor Mode must be disabled for
the copper trunks. You must also disable Cable Monitor Mode if you are
using copper to connect concentrators in different wiring closets, even if
you are connecting 3Com modules. Figure 3-7 shows an example in which
ports must have Cable Monitor Mode disabled.
Wiring Closet A Wiring Closet B
Disabled Enabled Disabled Ena b ed

Enabled Enabled
Enabled Enabled D isabled D isabled
R J45 to IBM D ata conn ector cable only, D O NOT use

C able Monitor M ode.
Figure 3-7. Implementing Cable Monitor Mode
Use the following network management command to enable or disable

Cable Monitor Mode on the copper Ring In trunk:
SET TRUNK {slot} RING_IN.2 CABLE_MONITOR {enable}
{disable}
Use the following command to enable or disable Cable Monitor Mode on

the copper Ring Out trunk:
SET TRUNK {slot} RING_OUT.2 CABLE_MONITOR {enable}
{disable}

Fiber Ring In/Ring Out 8230 Compatibility Mode
The Fiber Repeater Module supports compatibility between the fiber trunks
on the module and the fiber trunks on the IBM 8230 Controlled Access
Unit (CAU). For full compatibility between the Fiber Repeater Module and
the 8230 CAU, it is recommended that an ONline Token Ring Management
Module (TRMM) be installed in the concentrator. Note that the TRMM
must be assigned to the same network as the Fiber Repeater Module, but
does not need to be located in a slot immediately adjacent to the Fiber
Repeater Module.
When 8230 Compatibility Mode is enabled and the module senses a cable
fault on the primary or secondary data path, the module automatically
wraps the signal to the backup path to keep the ring up and running. 8230
Compatibility Mode must be enabled when connecting the Fiber Repeater
Module to an 8230 CAU using the fiber Ring In and Ring Out trunks. You
must disable 8230 Compatibility Mode when connecting the module to
another ONline Token Ring module.
Use the following command to enable or disable Compatibility Mode on

the fiber Ring In trunk:
SET TRUNK {slot} RING_IN.1 COMPATIBILITY_MODE {enable}
{disable}
Use the following command to enable or disable Compatibility Mode on

the fiber Ring Out trunk:
SET TRUNK {slot} RING_OUT.1 COMPATIBILITY_MODE {enable}
{disable}
Figure 3-8 illustrates a typical configuration in which an 8230 CAU and two
Fiber Repeater Modules are interconnected. This figure shows normal
operation of the ring with data flowing along the primary path.

IBM 8230
Controlled
IO
Ac cess Unit
4 16 1 RI RO
RI 2 RO
OK 3
4
ON line Con centrator A

8230 Optica l Fiber
C o n ve rte r Mo du le s
RI
R
To Backplane
T
R
Ring
T
RO
ONline Concentrator B
RI
R
T
To Backplane
R
T
Ring
RO
P rim a ry Pa th E xte rn al C a b lin g
Secondary Path External Cabling
Figure 3-8. Normal Ring Operation
Figure 3-9 illustrates how a cable break in the 8230 Ring In primary path
will cause the 8230 Ring In trunk to automatically wrap. The ring is
maintained by sending the data frames along the unused backup wires in
the trunk cable. The break shown in Figure 3-9 causes the ring to segment.
Once the cable is repaired and the 8230 unwraps, the ring is restored.

IB M 8230
1
Controlle d
IO
4 16
2 RI RO
RO Ac c es s U n it
RI 3
O K
4
O Nlin e C onc entrator A

8230 O ptic al Fiber
RI
R
T
To Backp lane
R
T
R ing
RO
Break in
C able
ON line C onc entrator B
RI
R To Back plane
T
R
T
R ing
RO
Primary Path External C abling
Sec on da ry Path Extern al Cablin g
Figure 3-9. Wrapped Operation
When Compatibility Mode is enabled, the fiber trunk(s) on the Fiber

Repeater Module and 8230 CAU will wrap the signal as described in
Table 3-7.

Note: In Cases 1, 4, and 7, a TRMM must be present and
configured to the same network as the Fiber Repeater
Module. Compatibility Mode is not supported in these
cases without a TRMM.
Table 3-7. Compatibility Mode Wrapping Scenarios
User Action
Case Scenario Result
Required
1. 8230 Ring In The 8230 Ring In trunk After the cable

Primary Path automatically wraps to failure is repaired,
Failure the backup ring path. you must
(TRMM The Fiber Repeater re-enable both
Required) reports a link failure to trunks on the
the TRMM. After a few Fiber Repeater in
seconds, the TRMM order to
disables the Ring Out re-establish
trunk (and the Ring In communication
trunk, if it was enabled) with the 8230.
on the Fiber Repeater Once the trunks
thereby repairing the ring. are enabled, the
8230 unwraps and
communication is
re-established.
2. 8230 Ring The 8230 Ring Out and None.
Out Primary the Fiber Repeater Ring
Path Failure In trunks automatically
wrap. When the cable is
replaced, both the 8230
and the Fiber Repeater
unwrap and the link is
re-established.

Table 3-7. Compatibility Mode Wrapping Scenarios (Continued)
User Action
Required
3. 8230 Ring In The 8230 Ring In and the None.

Secondary Fiber Repeater Ring Out
Path Failure trunks automatically
wrap. When the cable is
replaced, both the 8230
and the Fiber Repeater
unwrap and the link is
re-established.
4. 8230 Ring The 8230 Ring Out trunk After the cable
Out automatically wraps. The failure is repaired,
Secondary Fiber Repeater reports a you must
Path Failure link failure to the TRMM. re-enable both
(TRMM After a few seconds, the trunks on the
Required) TRMM disables the Fiber Fiber Repeater
Repeater Ring In trunk Module in order to
(and the Ring Out trunk, re-establish
if it was enabled) thereby communication
repairing the ring. with the 8230.
Once the trunks
are enabled, the
8230 unwraps and
communication is
re-established.
5. 8230 Ring In Both the 8230 Ring In None.
Dual Path trunk and the Fiber
Failure Repeater Ring Out trunk
wrap as in Case 3. When
the cable is replaced, both
the 8230 and the Fiber
Repeater unwrap and the
link is re-established.

Table 3-7. Compatibility Mode Wrapping Scenarios (Continued)
User Action
Required
6. 8230 Ring The 8230 Ring Out and None.

Out Dual Path the Fiber Repeater Ring
Failure In trunks automatically
wrap as in Case 2. When
the cable is replaced, both
the 8230 and the Fiber
Repeater unwrap and the
link is re-established.
7. Failure on an In this scenario, a station After the
8230 Ring on the 8230 ring segment beaconing
Segment beacons due to a problem problem on the
(TRMM other than a physical 8230 ring segment
Required) cable break. The TRMM is repaired, you
senses beaconing from must re-enable the
the 8230 and disables trunks on the
the trunks on the Fiber Fiber Repeater
Repeater Module. Module in order to
re-establish
communication
with the 8230.
Ring Speed Selection

Via network management or a dip switch, you can set the module to
operate at a transmission rate of 4 or 16 Mbps, depending on the
network's ring speed.
Use the following TRMM or EMM command to change the ring speed for
the Fiber Repeater Module:
SET MODULE {slot} RING_SPEED {4mbps}
{16mbps}

Network Selection
If a network management module is installed in the concentrator, you can
use network management commands to assign the Fiber Repeater Module
to one of seven Token Ring backplane networks or set the module to
isolated mode.
Use the following management command to set the module to a Token

Ring network:
SET MODULE {slot} NETWORK {token_ring_1}
{token_ring_2}
{token_ring_3}
{token_ring_4}
{token_ring_5}
{token_ring_6}
{token_ring_7}
{isolated}
Set Module for Internal/External Network Map

You must set the Fiber Repeater Module to be internal or external in the
network map if you establish a trunk connection using the copper Ring In
trunk and 3Com TRCABLE-10 or TRCABLE-30. You do not need to set this
command if you have made your connections using standard RJ-45 cable.
This command, in part, determines what is displayed when you use the
SHOW NETWORK MAP command.
Configure the Fiber Repeater Module to be internal when the module to

which you are connecting resides within the same concentrator. If the
copper Ring In connection is made to a module or device external to the
concentrator, set the module to external.
Use the following network management command to set the module to

internal:
SET TRUNK {slot} RING_IN.2 NETWORK_MAP {internal}
Use the following command to set the module to external:

SET TRUNK {slot} RING_IN.2 NETWORK_MAP {external}

Saving Module Configurations
Use the following network management command, from the ONline>
prompt, to save the module and ports settings configured through the
network management commands:
SAVE MODULE_PORT
Showing Module Configurations

You can display status information about the Fiber Repeater Module using
the following network management commands:
SHOW MODULE/SHOW MODULE VERBOSE
SHOW PORT/SHOW PORT VERBOSE
SHOW TRUNK/SHOW TRUNK VERBOSE
These commands enable you to show certain types of information about

the module such as:
Fiber Ring In/Ring Out status
Copper Ring In/Ring Out status
Backplane status
Ring speed

For example, the following command displays detailed information about
both lobe ports on the Fiber Repeater Module in slot 6 of the concentrator.
ONline> show port 6.all verbose
Port Display for Module 5202M-FR :
Port Mode Status Network General Information
-----------------------------------------------------------------
06.01 DISABLED NO PHANTOM TOKEN_RING_5
Port Connector: RJ45S
Mode Dip Setting: ENABLED
Cable Impedance Dip Setting: 150 OHM
06.02 ENABLED OKAY TOKEN_RING_5
Port Connector: RJ45S
Mode Dip Setting: ENABLED
Cable Impedance Dip Setting: 150 OHM
The following example shows what is displayed about the Ring In, Ring
Out, and backplane connections when you use the SHOW TRUNK VERBOSE
command for a Fiber Repeater Module in slot 9 of a concentrator.
ONline> show trunk 9 all verbose
Trunk Display for Module 5202M-FR :
Slot Trunk Mode Status Type General Information
------------------------------------------------------------------
09 RING_IN.1 ENABLED OKAY FIBER
Trunk Connector: FIBER
Trunk Mode Dip Setting: ENABLED
Compatibility Mode Setting: DISABLED
Compatibility Mode Dip Setting: ENABLED
09 RING_OUT.1 ENABLED LOST LOCK FIBER
Trunk Connector: FIBER
Compatibility Mode Setting: DISABLED
Compatibility Mode Dip Setting: ENABLED
09 RING_IN.2 ENABLED OKAY COPPER
Trunk Connector: RJ45S
Cable Monitor: DISABLED
Cable Monitor Dip Setting: ENABLED
Network Map State: INTERNAL

09 RING_OUT.2 ENABLED NO SQUELCH COPPER
Trunk Connector: RJ45S
Cable Monitor: DISABLED
Cable Monitor Dip Setting: ENABLED
09 BACKPLANE_IN ENABLED OKAY BACKPLANE TR_PATH_9
Trunk Connector: BACKPLANE
09 BACKPLANE_OUT ENABLED OKAY BACKPLANE TR_PATH_9
Trunk Connector: BACKPLANE
Show Network Map Command

The SHOW NETWORK MAP command lets you display a physical ring map
of all the Token Ring modules in a concentrator. This feature shows the
status of the trunks (Ring In, Ring Out, and Backplane) on all connected
modules in the concentrator and the modules to which they are connected.
You implement this command using the SHOW NETWORK_MAP
TOKEN_RING command.
For example:
ONline> show network_map token_ring
Physical wiring map for modules in TOKEN_RING_1:
Upstream Connection Downstream
Slot ID Type Slot ID
-----------------------------------------------------------
External Fiber 9
9 Copper 3
4 Copper 4
4 Copper 9
9 Backplane 9
9 Fiber External

Monitoring the Front Panel
The LEDs on the front panel of the Fiber Repeater Module allow you to
monitor the status of each port and trunk. The Fiber Repeater Module has
seven status LEDs. Figure 3-10 shows the location of the LEDs. Each LED
indicates the state of its port/trunk as described in Table 3-8. (Chapter 4,
Troubleshooting, explains the LED diagnostic codes in more detail).
R ing In 1 Ring Out 1

Ring In 2 Ring Out 2
Lobe Port 1 Lobe Port 2
Backplane
Rx
Tx Fiber Ring In 1
Rx
Fiber Ring Out 1
Tx
Lobe Port 1
Lobe Port 2
C opper Ring In 2
C opper Ring Out 2
Figure 3-10. Fiber Repeater Module Faceplate and ONline

System Concentrator

LEDs
LED Name State Indicates
Fiber Ring In 1; Off Port disabled.

Fiber Ring Out 1
On Port enabled and functioning properly
(light
detected).
1 blink Port enabled but no light detected.*
2 blinks Signal frequency acquisition error
detected on the port (refer to Chapter 4
for more information).
3 blinks Hardware error detected on the port.*
Copper Ring In Off Port disabled.
2; Copper Ring
Out 2 On Port enabled and functioning properly.
1 blink Cable Monitor Mode is enabled and a
cable break is detected.*
2 blinks Squelch error detected.*
Lobe Port 1; Off Port disabled.
Lobe Port 2
On Port enabled and functioning properly.
1 blink No station detected (i.e., no phantom
current present).*

LEDs (Continued)
LED Name State Indicates
Backplane Off Module is isolated from the backplane

and is operating without error.
On Module is operating on the backplane
without error.
1 blink Module is operating on the backplane,
but its configuration has changed as a
result of an error recovery.
2 blinks A frequency acquisition error has
occurred on the module.
3 blinks A hardware error is detected on the
module and has resulted in the module
shutting down.
*This condition causes the signal to wrap automatically.
LED and Network Verification

The ONline Controller Module and the ONline Fault-Tolerant Controller
Module are equipped with an LED check button on the front panel. The
LED check button is used to:
verify LED operation
verify network assignment
A secondary function of this button is its ability to force a ring

reconfiguration for modules in an unmanaged concentrator. Refer to the
section in this chapter, Backplane Enable, for an explanation of this
function.

When you press the LED check button, it causes all module LEDs to light for
approximately five seconds. Any LED that does not light is defective.
After the five seconds elapse, the diagnostic continues with a network
check of all modules. This network check causes each module's Status LEDs
to blink a number of times corresponding to the network to which it is
assigned. If the module is in isolated mode, the Status LEDs on the module
will remain off. The network check sequence repeats five times. Table 3-9
explains the network check codes.
Table 3-9. Network Check Codes
LED State Module Configured fo . .
1 Blink Token Ring Network 1

2 Blinks Token Ring Network 2
Off Module is isolated (operates
independent of any network)

4 Troubleshooting
This chapter describes troubleshooting procedures for the Fiber Repeater

Module. These procedures should assist network installers and users in
isolating faults and verifying operation. Typical fault conditions are
addressed in this chapter.
A section on general troubleshooting tips provides a list of actions you

should take to verify proper operation of the Fiber Repeater Module.
Diagnostic features using the Port Status LEDs on the module are covered
in Table 3-8 and explained further here in Table 4-1 through Table 4-4. The
remainder of this chapter consists of the following sections:
Intermittent errors on an operating ring
Complete Ring Failure
Module Replacement Procedure
Resetting the Module
Technical Assistance
Troubleshooting 4 - 1
General Troubleshooting Tips
Improper configuration of the Fiber Repeater Module may result in faulty
operation of the module. The LEDs on the module provide a good
indication of these errors and are described in subsequent sections of this
chapter. If you experience a problem with your Fiber Repeater Module, you
should also verify that:
the Fiber Repeater Module is set to the proper ring speed. It must be
set to the same ring speed as all other modules on the ring.
any attaching device or station is set to the same ring speed as the
Fiber Repeater Module.
the impedance jumpers have been set to the appropriate position for
the cable type used on the lobe ports (STP or UTP).
only STP cabling is used used on the copper Ring In/Ring Out ports.
the fiber cabling is connected properly (that is, transmit always

connects directly to receive).
the fiber Ring In port connects to a fiber Ring Out port.
the fiber ports on the module are used to connect only to other
ONline devices or to an IBM 8230 Controlled Access Unit (CAU).
Troubleshooting With the Ring In/Ring Out Status

LEDs
A blinking Ring In/Ring Out Status indicator may be 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. The blinks
are timed so that you can easily determine the number of blinks. Table 4-1
provides troubleshooting suggestions for the fiber Ring In/Ring Out ports

on the Fiber Repeater Module. Table 4-2 provides procedures for
troubleshooting the copper Ring In/Ring Out ports.
LEDs
LED Troubleshooting
Indication Possible Problem
State Suggestions
Off Port is disabled. Port disabled. Enable port.

Repeater Module Check the
not powered. Controller
Module Power
LEDs.
Broken LED. Press the LED
check button on
the Controller
Module to see if
LED lights.
Bad Repeater Replace module.
Module.
On Port is enabled and
functioning
properly.
1 blink Port is enabled but The Reverse the
no light is receive/transmit receive/transmit
detected.* fiber cable was cables (i.e., make
installed in reversed sure a receive only
order. connects to a
transmit).
LEDs (Continued)
LED Troubleshooting
State Suggestions
1 blink A Ring In at one Verify that a Ring

(cont) end of the cable is In at one end of
connected to the connection
another Ring In at always connects
the other end. Or, to a Ring Out at
a Ring Out is the other end.
connected to
another Ring Out.
No cable installed. Install the cable or
disable the port.
Faulty cable or Replace or repair
connector. the cable or
connector.
2 Ring In/Ring Out Faulty cable. Replace or repair
blinks port is enabled but the cable.
signal frequency
acquisition error is Incorrect ring Change the ring
detected.* speed setting. speed to the
correct setting via
network
management or
a dip switch.
No stations on the Verify that the
ring. module is
configured
properly on the
ring.

LEDs (Continued)
LED Troubleshooting
State Suggestions
2 Trunk path too Check trunk

blinks long. cable and refer to
(cont) Chapter 2 to
verify that your
configuration is
legal. Also, ensure
that the received
power is always at
least -31 dBm at
the fiber receive
port.
3 Hardware error Bad hardware. Replace the
blinks detected on the module.
port. The signal is
wrapped
automatically.
*A frequency acquisition error (indicated by the LED blinking twice) may
be the result of the phase lock loops not successfully remaining locked.
This may occur when there are no stations on the network path and,
therefore, the phase lock loops do not have any datato lock onto.
Status LEDs
LED Troubleshooting
State Suggestions

Fiber Repeater Check the
Module not Controller Module
powered. Power LEDs.
Broken LED. Press the LED
check button on
the Controller
Module to see if
LED lights.
Bad Fiber Repeater Replace module.
Module.
On Port is enabled
and functioning
properly.
1 blink Port is enabled No cable installed. Install the
and Cable appropriate cable
Monitor Mode is or disable the
enabled, but a port.
cable break is
detected. This
condition causes
the signal to
wrap.

Status LEDs (Continued)
LED Troubleshooting
State Suggestions
2 blinks Port is enabled Faulty cable. Replace or repair

but a squelch the cable.
error is
detected. This
condition causes
the signal to
wrap.
No cable installed. Install the cable
or disable the
port.
No stations on the Verify that the
ring. module is
configured
properly on the
ring.
Troubleshooting With the Lobe Port and Backplane
LEDs
Table 4-3 and Table 4-4 describe troubleshooting procedures using the lobe
port LEDs and backplane LED on the front panel of the Fiber Repeater
Module.
Table 4-3. Troubleshooting With the Lobe Port LEDs
LED Possible Troubleshooting

Indication
State Problem Suggestions

Fiber Repeater Check the Controller
Module not Module Power LEDs.
powered.
Broken LED. Press the LED check
button on the
Controller Module to
see if LED lights.
Bad Fiber Replace module.
Repeater Module.
On Port is enabled
and functioning
properly.
1 blink Port is enabled Station not Turn on the PC or
but no station is powered. other connected
detected (no device.
phantom current
is detected). Faulty cable. Replace the cable.
No cable to port. Disable the port.

Table 4-4. Troubleshooting With the Backplane LED
LED Troubleshooting
State Suggestions
Off The module is not The module is not If desired, use

configured onto configured for a network
the backplane network. This is management to
and is operating not considered a set the module to
without error. problem if you one of seven
want the module to networks or use
be isolated. the Backplane
Enable dip switch.
On Module is
operating on the
backplane
without error.
1 blink Module is Another module in Check the other
running on the the ring has failed. modules' LEDs to
backplane, but its verify proper
configuration has operation.
changed as a
result of an error
recovery (this is
not necessarily a
problem).
2 blinks A frequency No stations are on Verify that the
acquisition error the ring. module is
has occurred. configured
properly on the
ring.
Table 4-4. Troubleshooting With the Backplane LED (Continued)
LED Troubleshooting
State Suggestions
2 blinks Incorrect ring speed Change the ring

(cont) setting or the speed to the
module is correct setting via
connected to a network
ring operating at a management or a
different speed. dip switch.
3 blinks Module has shut Incorrect ring speed Use dip switch or
down as a result setting. network
of an error management to
recovery. set the correct ring
speed.
Bad hardware. Replace the
module.
Problems Adding a New Node to an Operating Ring

Problems may be experienced when adding a new station to an operating
ring using the lobe ports. Usually the symptom will be that the station does
not initialize itself properly on the ring and reports that it has failed
diagnostic testing. Problems of this type are generally caused by the
horizontal cabling attaching the station to the concentrator. You should
also ensure that the module and the station are set for the correct ring
speed.
Follow the steps listed below to resolve this type of problem:
1. Verify that the port is enabled on the Fiber Repeater Module to which
the failing station is attached. The front panel LED corresponding to
this port should be on or blinking. If the LED is off, the port is
disabled and must be enabled to allow the station to attach to the
ring.

2. Verify that the DC phantom current generated by the station when
requesting attachment to the ring is present. Observe the front panel
LED corresponding to the port connected to the failing station. The
LED should be blinking when no cable is attached, or when the
station has not yet requested attachment to the ring. Once the
station attaches to the ring, the LED should be continuously on. If the
LED does not stay on continuously, the station is not requesting
attachment or is unable to attach to the ring. Check the cabling (see
Step 3) and confirm that the station is operating properly.
3. Verify that the cables being used to connect the station to the
concentrator are secure. Be sure not to exceed the maximum lobe
cable distances recommended in Chapter 2. Also, verify that the
pinout of the attaching cables meets the requirements described in
Appendix A.
4. Verify that the station is set to the same data rate as the ring (4 or 16
MBits/sec). If the data rate of the station and the ring do not match,
the station will not be able to insert onto the ring and may cause
severe problems when attempting to insert onto the ring.
5. Verify the node is within the allowable distance of the concentrator.

See Chapter 2 for distance guidelines.
Intermittent Errors on an Operating Ring

An operating ring may experience occasional soft errors. These may be
reported by stations as CRC errors, lost tokens, or soft errors, or they may
simply be indicated by poor performance of the network. Usually this is an
indication of excessive jitter or noise on the network, generally caused by
faulty cables or by exceeding configuration limits.
1. Verify that your cable configuration meets the specifications and

guidelines described in Chapter 2 and Appendix A.
2. Verify that the Ring In/Ring Out indicators on the front panel of the
Fiber Repeater Module are on. If either of these indicators is blinking
between pauses, it indicates that there may be a problem.
Specifically, this may indicate excessive trunk cable lengths or
intermittent connections, either of which will cause occasional errors
on the network.
Complete Ring Failure

In some situations, an operating ring may fail completely. This may be
reported by stations as Ring Beaconing, or stations may simply fail to
attach to the ring at all. Usually this is an indication of problems in the
trunk cabling or a ring speed that has been incorrectly set for the module.
1. Verify that all Ring In/Ring Out cables are connected. Under some
circumstances, a broken Ring In/Ring Out copper cable may cause
the ring to fail completely.
2. Verify that any other devices in the trunk path (e.g., repeaters) are
operating properly. If a trunk repeater fails, it may disable the entire
ring.
3. Verify that all stations and ONline Token Ring modules are configured
for the same data rate.
4. If the trunk ring appears to be operating, the problem may in fact be

at higher software layers. If your network is based around a single file
server, problems in the server or its network attachment may cause
the entire ring to fail. By bypassing the Fiber Repeater Module to
which the server is attached, you can attempt to set up a smaller test
ring to verify proper server operation.

Module Replacement Procedure
When replacing a module in a concentrator you need to follow the correct
procedure so you do not take the entire ring down. Basically, you need to
be concerned with the module you are removing and with the modules on
each side, on both the fiber and copper Ring In and Ring Out. If the Fiber
Repeater Module you are replacing is connected to a 3Com Token Ring
MAU Module (model number 5208M-TP), it is important to note whether
Cable Monitor Mode on the MAU Module is enabled or disabled. Table 4-5
explains the general rule when replacing Fiber Repeater Modules.
Table 4-5. Fiber Repeater Module Swap Procedure
If Cable
Monitor Enabled Disabled
Mode Is. . .
Remove the Ring In Disable the Ring In and Ring

and Ring Out cables Out ports first (through
first management commands)
The procedure for replacing Fiber Repeater Modules differs slightly

depending on whether Cable Monitor Mode is enabled or disabled on the
modules. The following sections describe both procedures and will help you
replace and add modules to your ring without incurring network
downtime.
Note: In both examples, replace only one module at a time into

the ring to confirm operation and prevent segmenting the
ring. Also, note that you may want to plug critical stations
into other available ports in the same ring before
disconnecting the module from the ring.
Module Replacement with Cable Monitor Disabled
If Cable Monitor Mode is disabled on the modules to which the Fiber
Repeater Module is connected, you must disable the copper Ring Out port
of the upstream module in the ring and disable the copper Ring In port of
the downstream module using network management (TRMM, software
version 1.0 or greater, or EMM, version 3.0, or greater). Figure 4-1 provides
an illustration of this scenario.
A B C
Cable Monitor Mode is

disabled for all modules
and you need to replace
Module B.
Figure 4-1. Cable Monitor Mode Disabled
Refer to Figure 4-1 and follow the steps below to replace a Fiber Repeater
Module that is connected to MAU Modules that have Cable Monitor Mode
disabled.
1. Disable the Ring In port of Module C so the network will wrap at that
module (SET TRUNK 8 RING_IN MODE DISABLE).
2. Disable the Ring Out port of Module A so the network will wrap at
that module (SET TRUNK 2 RING_OUT MODE DISABLE).
3. Unplug the Ring In and Ring Out cables from Module B.

4. Unplug Module B from the concentrator.
5. Configure the replacement module and plug it into the concentrator.
6. Reconnect the lobe cables from the original module to the new
module.
7. Reconnect the Ring In and Ring Out cables to Module B.
8. Enable the Ring In port of Module C so the network will include the
new module (SET TRUNK 8 RING_IN MODE ENABLE).
9. Enable the Ring Out port of Module A so the network will return to
the normal ring configuration (SET TRUNK 2 RING_OUT MODE
ENABLE).
Note: Do not unplug the Ring In or Ring Out cables before

disabling the Ring In and Ring Out ports as explained in
Steps 1 and 2. This would take the ring down until the Ring
In and Ring Out ports are disabled.
Module Replacement with Cable Monitor Enabled

If all concerned MAU Modules have Cable Monitor Mode enabled, you
must unplug the Ring In and Ring Out cables from the module before
removing the module. Follow the steps below and refer to Figure 4-2.
A B C
Cable Monitor Mode is

disabled for all modules
and you need to replace
Module B.
Figure 4-2. Cable Monitor Mode Enabled
1. Unplug the Ring In and Ring Out cables from Module B.
2. Unplug Module B from the concentrator.
3. Configure the new module and plug it into the concentrator.
4. Reconnect the lobe cables from the original module to the new
module.
5. Reconnect the Ring In and Ring Out cables to Module B.
Note: Do not pull the module out before unplugging the Ring In
or Ring Out cables. This would take down the ring until
both the Ring In and Ring Out cables are unplugged.

Resetting the Module
If a squelch error is detected on the copper ports, the copper Ring In/Ring
Out LEDs on the module will blink twice. This problem is most likely the
result of a faulty cable. In this case, the signal is wrapped from the primary
to the backup path to keep the ring operational. When the cable is
replaced, there may be instances in which the copper Ring In/Ring Out
ports get shut down. If this occurs, you must issue the RESET MODULE
management command to re-openthe Ring In/Ring Out ports.
Technical Assistance
You can receive assistance for installing and troubleshooting the Fiber
Repeater 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 Fiber Repeater 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.
A Specifications
This appendix lists specifications for the Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module.
There are five subsections:
General Specifications
Power Requirements
Environmental Specifications
Mechanical Specifications
Miscellaneous Specifications
This appendix also contains a section on fiber and twisted pair cables and
connectors.
General Specifications
Data Rate: 4 or 16 Mbps (million bits per second)
Data Modulation: Differential Manchester
Maximum Number of Stations: 250 at 4 or 16 Mbps on STP

72 at 4 Mbps on UTP; 150 at 16 Mbps on UTP
Specifications A - 1
Power Requirements
2A@5V
Fuse: 4.0 Amps, Fast blow
10 Watts
Environmental Specifications
Operating Temperature: 0 to 50 C (32 to 122 F)
Storage Temperature: -30 to 65 C (-22 to 149 F)
Humidity: Less than 95%, non-condensing
BTU/hour: 34.13
Mechanical Specifications
Dimensions: 1.0" W x 10.25" L x 8.5" H
(2.54 cm x 26.04 cm x 21.6 cm)
Weight: 1.25 lb (0.57 kg)
Miscellaneous Specifications
Host Interface: 3Com ONline System Concentrator bus interface standard
Backplane Interface: 96-pin edge connector, compatible with 3Com's

ONline System Concentrator
Installation Attachment: Two thumbscrews on the mounting bracket
A - 2 ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

Cables and Connectors
This section contains information on fiber and twisted pair cables and
connectors. Use the information in this section to ensure that the cables
and connecting hardware meet requirements.
Fiber Optic Requirements
Fiber Cable Requirements

62.5/125 (or 50/100, 85/125, or 100/140 with distance limitations) m
diameter graded index, duplex fiber, 150 MHz-Km rating or better
Transmitter
Light Source: LED at wavelength 850 nm
Transmit Power: -13 to -19 dBm average
Receiver
Light Detector: Silicon PIN photodiode
Input Range: Optical power input of -12 to -31 dBm
Dynamic Range: 19 dBm
Bit Error Rate: 1 in 10-10 over dynamic range
Fiber Connectors
ST-type
Twisted Pair Requirements
Note: Use only STP cabling to connect devices through the copper
Ring In and Ring Out ports.
Twisted Pair (Copper) Connectors

The IEEE 802.5 Token Ring standard for pinouts must be used. The
following cable standard must be used for an 8-pin connector. Token Ring
uses 2 pairs of wire: pins 3 & 6 and pins 4 & 5. If the pairs are not
configured this way, the connection will not work properly. An 8-pin
connector on datagrade cable should have the following pin pairings:
pins 4 and 5 are pair 1
pins 3 and 6 are pair 2
pins 1 and 2 are pair 3 (not used)
pins 7 and 8 are pair 4 (not used)
Station Transmit
Not Used Station Receive Not Used
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
W-G G W-O BL W-BL O W-BR BR
Jack Positions
Figure A-1. RJ-45 Connector Pinouts

Some installations may have 50-pin Telco connectors at the wiring closet.
3Com recommends using a patch panel that converts from 50-pin to
RJ45-type connectors. This allows direct connection to the Token Ring
module in your ONline System Concentrator.
Twisted Pair Cables

The cables that are supported must meet the following qualifications:
22, 24, or 26 gauge twisted pair cable
100 or 150 ohm impedance
minimum of 2 pairs
Table A-1 lists the specifications for IBM cable types 1, 2, 6, and 9. These
cable types are IEEE 802.5 compliant and are ETL (ETL Testing Laboratories)
verified.
Table A-1. IBM Twisted Pair Cable Specifications
No. of Nominal
IBM Type AWG Shielding
Pairs Impedance
1 2 22 Data pairs 150 Ohms

(non-plenum) (solid individually foil
bare shielded plus
copper) 65% tinned
copper braid
2 6 22 Data pairs Data 150
(non-plenum) (data 2) (solid individually foil Ohms
(voice bare shielded plus
4) copper) 65% tinned Voice 105
copper braid. Ohms
Voice pairs
non-shielded*
Table A-1. IBM Twisted Pair Cable Specifications (Continued)
6 2 26 Overall foil 150 Ohms

(non-plenum) (7x34 shielded pairs
bare plus 65% tinned
copper) copper braid
9 2 26 Individually foil 150 Ohms
(plenum) (7x34 shielded plus
bare 65% tinned
copper) copper braid.
*Voice pairs in the IBM Type 2 cable cannot be used for Token Ring data
transmission.
Note that the non-plenum type 1, 2, and 6 cables are insulated with
polyethylene. The plenum type 9 cable is insulated with polyvinylchloride.

B Technical Support
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
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 Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module

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 Telephone Number Country Telephone Number

Belgium 0800 71429 Netherlands 06 0227788
Denmark 800 17309 Norway 800 11376
Finland 0800 113153 Spain 900 983125
France 05 917959 Sweden 020 795482
Germany 0130 821502 U.K. 0800 966197
Ireland 1 800 553117 U.S. 800 876-3266
Italy 1678 79489
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

U.S. and Canada (800) 724-2447 (508) 787-3400
Europe (44) (1442) 275860 No Fax
Asia Pacific (508) 787-5296 (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 Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module

3. Enter your full Internet e-mail address as the password
(for example, jdoe@company.com).
4. Change to the mib or schema directory using the cd /pub/mibs or

cd /pub/mibs/schemas command.
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 quit command.
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.
Index
Numerics Cable Monitor Mode, 4-14

Cable Pinouts, A-4
3Com Bulletin Board Service (3ComBBS), B-3 Cabling
8230 Controlled Access Unit Connectors, A-4, A-5
IBM 8230 Controlled Access Unit (CAU), Wire Types, A-5
1-5 CAU
IBM 8230 Controlled Access Unit, 3-22
A IBM 8230 Controlled Access Unit (CAU),
1-5
Adapter Cards, 2-4 Collapsed Backbone Architecture, 2-18, 2-19
Add a New Station to a Ring, 4-10 Compatibility Mode, 3-22
Assign a Network, 3-28 Wrapping Scenarios, 3-25
Audience of Manual, xiii Configuration Guidelines, 2-2, 2-3
Configuration Rules
B Cable Types, 2-4
Maximum Copper Trunks, 2-9, 2-10, 2-11
Backbone Configurations Maximum Lobe Lengths, 2-5, 2-6, 2-7, 2-8
Collapsed Backbone, 2-18, 2-19 Maximum Station Count, 2-4, 2-5
Redundant Load-Sharing Backbone, 2-20, Ring Speed, 2-4
2-21 Connections, 1-2, 2-2, 3-17
Single Extended Ring, 2-22 Connectors, A-3
Traditional Backbone Ring, 2-17, 2-18 Controlled Access Unit
Backplane Interface, 1-4 IBM 8230 Controlled Access Unit, 3-22
Connections, 3-17 Copper
Enable/Disable, 3-8, 3-9 Lobe Ports, 2-2
Re-initializing, 3-9, 3-10 Ring In/Ring Out Ports, 2-2, 2-3
Troubleshooting Using LED, 4-9 Copper Ring In/Ring Out Status LEDs
Backup Path, 1-4, 3-22, 3-23 Troubleshooting With, 4-6
Bridge Token Ring Networks, 2-3 Copper Trunk Connections, 1-3, 3-16
bulletin board service, B-3 Enable/Disable, 3-6, 3-19
CRC Errors
C Intermittent Errors, 4-11
Cable
Requirements, A-3
Index 1
Single Closet Configurations, 2-13, 2-14,
D 2-15
Designing the Network, 2-1 Specifications, A-1
Dip Switches, 3-4, 3-18 Theory of Operation, 1-2
Location of, 3-5 Troubleshooting, 4-1
SW1 Switches, 3-6 Unpacking, 3-2
SW2 Switches, 3-7, 3-8 Fiber Ring In/Ring Out Status LEDs
Troubleshooting With, 4-2
E Fiber Trunk Connections, 1-3, 3-14, 3-15, 3-16
Enable/Disable, 3-7, 3-19
Electrostatic Discharge, 3-2 Front Panel, 1-3, 3-32
Enable/Disable
8230 Compatibility Mode, 3-22 G
Backplane Interface, 3-8, 3-9
Cable Monitor Mode, 3-21 General Specifications, A-1
Copper Ring In/Ring Out, 3-6 Grounding Techniques, 3-2
Fiber Ring In/Ring Out, 3-6
Lobe Ports, 3-6, 3-19 H
Trunk Connections, 3-19
Environmental Specifications, A-2 Hardware Requirements
Fiber Optic, A-3
Twisted Pair, A-4
F Hot-Swap Feature, 1-2, 3-13
Fan Out Devices, 2-5
Fault Tolerance, 1-4, 3-16 I
FCC notice, ii
Fiber IBM 8230 Compatibility Mode, 1-5, 3-16, 3-25
Ring In/Ring Out Trunks, 2-2 IBM 8230 Controlled Access Unit, 3-22
Fiber Optic IBM 8230 Controlled Access Unit (CAU), 1-5
Cable Requirements, A-3 IEEE 802.5 Standard, 1-5, 2-4, 2-9
Connectors, A-3 Install the Module, 3-13
Fiber Repeater Module Intermittent Errors, 4-11
Connections, 1-2, 1-3, 2-2, 3-14, 3-16
Distance Limitations, 2-3 J
Fault Tolerant Features, 1-4
Features, 1-1 Jitter, 4-11
Installing, 3-13
LEDs, 3-33 L
Monitoring, 3-32
Multiple Closet Configurations, 2-16 LAN Servers, 2-20
Replacement Procedure, 4-13, 4-14, 4-15 LED Check Button, 3-9, 3-34
Setting the Dip Switches, 3-4 LEDs, 3-33
2 Index
Backplane, 3-34, 4-9 Enable/Disable Trunks, 3-19
Copper Ring In/Ring Out, 3-33, 4-6 Save Module, 3-29
Fiber Ring In/Ring Out, 3-33, 4-3 Set Ring Speed, 3-27
Lobe Ports, 3-33, 4-8 Show Module Configuration, 3-29
Load-Sharing Backbone, 2-20, 2-21 Show Network Map, 3-28
Lobe Cabling, 2-5 SHOWS NETWORK MAP Command, 3-31
Maximum Distances, 2-6 network supplier support, B-2
STP, 2-6, 2-7
UTP/Level 3, 2-8
UTP/Level 4, 2-8
O
Lobe Ports, 1-4 ONline Controller Module, 3-9, 3-34
Connecting, 3-17 ONline Network Management Module, 3-18
Enable/Disable, 3-6, 3-19 on-line technical services, B-1
Troubleshooting Using LEDs, 4-8 ONline Token Ring Bridge Module, 2-3, 2-17,
2-20
M ONline Token Ring Management Module, 3-22
ONline Token Ring MAU Module, 1-3, 3-16
Maximum ONline Token Ring Media Module, 2-14, 2-15,
Attenuation, 2-7 2-20, 2-22
Copper Trunk Lengths, 2-6, 2-9 ONline Token Ring Media Modules, 2-22
Lobe Lengths, 2-5, 2-6
Number of Stations, 2-4, 2-5
Trunk Lengths, 2-10
P
Mechanical Specifications, A-2 Power Requirements, A-2
Medium Interface Connector (MIC), 2-5
MIB, B-4 R
Multiple Closet Configurations, 2-15
Multistation Access Unit (MAU), 2-2 Re-initialize the Backplane, 3-9, 3-10
Multivendor Equipment, 2-2 Replace the Module, 4-13, 4-14
With Cable Monitor Disabled, 4-14, 4-15
N With Cable Monitor Enabled, 4-15
Reset Module Command, 4-17
Network Check, 3-35 returning products for repair, B-4
Network Check Codes, 3-35 Ring Beaconing, 4-12
Network Design, 2-1 Ring Failure, 4-12
Network Management Commands, 3-4, 3-18 Ring Speed, 2-4, 3-27
Assign a Network, 3-28
Enable/Disable 8230 Compatibility S
Mode, 3-22
Enable/Disable Cable Monitor Mode, Save
3-21 Module Configurations, 3-29
Enable/Disable Lobe Ports, 3-19 Set
Index 3
Jumpers, 3-13 Traditional Backbone Configuration, 2-17, 2-18
Ring Speed, 3-7, 3-27 Troubleshooting
SET Commands Adding a New Station to a Ring, 4-10
Set Port Enable/Disable, 3-19 Intermittent Errors, 4-11
Set Trunk Cable_Monitor Enable/Disable, Resetting the Module, 4-17
3-21 Ring Failure, 4-12
Set Trunk Compatibility_Mode Technical Assistance, 4-17
Enable/Disable, 3-22 With Backplane LED, 4-9
Set Trunk Enable/Disable, 3-19 With Copper Ring In/Ring Out Status
Set the Dip Switches, 3-3 LEDs, 4-6
Shielded Twisted Pair With Fiber Ring In/Ring Out Status LEDs,
Maximum Stations Allowed, 2-4 4-3
Shielded Twisted Pair Cable, 2-3 Trunk Lengths
Specifications, 2-7, A-5, A-6 16 Mbps Rings, 2-11
Show 4 Mbps Rings, 2-10
Module Configurations, 3-29 Twisted Pair
SHOW Commands Cable Requirements, A-4, A-5
Show Network Map, 3-28, 3-31 Cables, A-5
Show Port, 3-30 Connectors, A-4, A-5
Show Trunk, 3-30 Twisted Pair Cables, A-5
Single Closet Configurations, 2-13
Single Extended Ring Configuration, 2-22 U
Single/Multiple Rings Dip Switch, 3-7, 3-10
SNMP Commands, B-4 Unshielded Twisted Pair
Soft Errors Level 3 Cable, 2-8
Intermittent Errors, 4-11 Level 4 Cable, 2-8
Specifications Lobe Lengths, 2-8
Environmental, A-2 Maximum Stations Allowed, 2-4
General, A-1
Mechanical, A-2 V
Miscellaneous, A-2
Power Requirements, A-2 VDE compliance, ii
T W
Technical Assistance, 4-17 Wrapping Capability, 1-5
Technical Support, 4-17
technical support, B-1
Theory of Operation, 1-2
Token Ring MAU Module, 2-2
Token Ring-To-Token Ring Bridge, 2-3
Token Ring-to-Token Ring Bridge, 1-4
4 Index

5202M FR PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

5202M FR PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

ONline Token Ring Fiber

Repeater Module Installation

Document Number 17-00181-5

Model Number: 5202M-FR

This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the

Hiermit wird bescheinigt, dass der 5202M-FR in ebereinstimmung

3Com Laser Library, 3Com OpenHub, 3TECH, FDDILink, FMS,

3ComFacts and Ask3Com are service marks of 3Com Corporation.

ii ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines.

3Com, LANplex, BoundaryRouting, LanScanner, LinkBuilder,

3ComLaser Library, 3TECH, CacheCard, FDDILink, FMS, NetProbe,

CompuServe is a registered trademark of CompuServe, Inc.

3Com registered trademarks are registered in the United States,

ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide iii

How to Use This Guide

Chapter 2 Designing and Expanding the Network

ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide v

Chapter 3 Installing and Operating the Module

vi ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide vii

viii ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide ix

ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide xi

This guide describes the features, controls/indicators, and installation

Network manager or administrator

ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide xiii

Chapter 1, Introduction Introduces the principal features of the ONline

Chapter 2, Designing and Expanding the Network Provides and

Chapter 3, Installing and Operating the Module Illustrates

Chapter 4, Troubleshooting Provides help in isolating and correcting

Appendix A, Specifications Provides product dimensions, power

Appendix B, Technical Support Lists the various methods for

xiv ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

Convention Indicates Example

Courier text User input In the Agent Information Form,

ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide xv

Note: A Note. The Note: Use STP lobe

xvi ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

17-Slot ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation

6-Slot ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation

ONline Token Ring Management Module Guide Explains how to install,

ONline Management Commands Guide Provides an alphabetized

For a complete list of 3Com documents, contact your 3Com representative.

Rose, M., and K. McCloghrie, Structure and Identification of

ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide xvii

The Fiber Repeater Module

Contains built-in automatic wrap capability on the fiber and copper

Provides automatic reconnection to the network when a break in the

Can be connected to one of seven token ring networks residing on

Supports up to 2 km of 62.5/125 fiber cable, as well as other popular

Supports hot-swap capability (the ability to insert and remove the

Comes with AT&T's ST-type connectors

Includes extensive diagnostics for rapid troubleshooting

1 - 2 ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

Enhanced Fault Tolerance

Fault tolerance is also achieved through the module's ability to

1 - 4 ONline Token Ring Fiber Repeater Module Installation Guide

The ability to connect to any ring on an ONline System Concentrator

Wrapping capability that allows ports on the module to be isolated

Management of the Fiber Repeater Module through ONline network

The following variables need to be considered when designing a network

Maximum number of stations per ring