5Connecting Another OfficeConnect HubYou may wish to connect another OfficeConnect hubto your Dual Speed Hub 8. Alternatively, you maywish to add your Hub to an existing 10Mbpsnetwork. When extending your network, you shouldbe aware of the configuration rules given below.If you connect two Dual Speed Hub 8 units directlytogether, the link between them operates at 100Mbps.Fast Ethernet (100Mbps) Configuration RulesThe Dual Speed Hub 8 is a Class II hub. You canconnect directly two Class II Fast Ethernet hubs(Class I Fast Ethernet hubs cannot be connecteddirectly to other Fast Ethernet hubs). The total lengthof cable (A + B + C below) between twoworkstations, or between a workstation and anon-repeater piece of equipment (such as a switch),must not exceed 205m (672ft). Each cable (A, B, orC) must not exceed 100m (328ft).3Com recommends that the cable (B) between theFast Ethernet hubs is no longer than 5m (16.4ft).This allows the maximum hub-to-workstation cablelength (A or C) of 100m (328ft) to be used, as shownin the example.Configuration Rules and Example of a Fast Ethernet (100Mbps) NetworkEthernet (10Mbps) Configuration RulesYou can connect a maximum of four Ethernet(10Mbps) hubs in series between workstations, orbetween a workstation and a non-repeater piece ofequipment (such as a switch). Each cable must notexceed 100m (328ft). An example is shown below.Example of Ethernet (10Mbps) NetworkMaking the Connection to Another HubYou can connect a 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, oranother 10/100BASE-TX OfficeConnect hub to anyport on the Dual Speed Hub 8. Use the followingmethod:1 Using a straight-through cable, connect theMDI/MDIX port of the Dual Speed Hub 8 to any ofthe ports on the other hub (as shown in the diagrambelow). If using port 8 on the other hub, set itsMDI/MDIX switch to MDIX (out).2 Set the MDI/MDIX switch for the MDI/MDIX port onthe Dual Speed Hub 8 to MDI (in).Correct Connections for OfficeConnect HubsPowering Up and Checking ConnectionsWhen you have connected all the appropriateworkstations and other equipment to the Hub, poweron the Hub. For each port with a connection, a PortStatus LED should be on. If the port is operating at100Mbps, the corresponding LED in the upper row ofPort Status LEDs is on. If the port is operating at10Mpbs, the corresponding LED in the lower row ison. If neither LED is on, check your connections.CAUTION: Do not power the Hub off and on quickly.Wait about 5 seconds between power cycles.Spot ChecksAt frequent intervals, visually check that:Q The Alert LED is off — this is the best way to find outif there are problems with your networkQ Case vents are not obstructedQ Cabling is secure and not pulled tautIf you suspect a problem, refer to “Problem Solving”on page 7.