Specifications

7-1
Chapter 7
Ethernet Network Design
Designing an Ethernet network must be approached with care. Many aspects of the network must be
considered before actual implementation can begin. A detailed plan must be laid out to ensure that all
the goals and obstacles are identified. In this chapter we will discuss many aspects of network design
by beginning with a single segment 10BASE5 Ethernet network and gradually building the single
segment into a large, multiple segment network. We will then discuss the design of a 10BASE2
network, a Fiber Optic network, and finally a 10BASE-T network.
10BASE5 Ethernet Network Design
Single Segment 10BASE5 Ethernet Network
A single segment of thick Ethernet cable can be a maximum of 500 m in
length. The cable must be terminated at both ends with N-type connectors
and 50 ohm N-type terminators. The cable should be marked with annular
rings by the cable manufacturer every 2.5 m indicating potential
transceiver tap points (see Figure 7-1).
Figure 7-1. Coaxial Annular Rings
The characteristics and test requirements of Ethernet 10BASE5 cables
are presented in the
Cabletron Systems Cabling Guide .
NOTE
2.5 m
(10BASE5)
Annular Rings
N-Type
Connector
Coaxial Cable
1913-18