Preparing the Ethernet Network

The Enterprise 6500/5500/4500 systems follow the IEEE standard for 10/100BASE-T Ethernet (twisted-pair) or MII (Media Independent Interface).

Twisted-pair cables used with Sun Microsystems products have RJ-45 connectors that resemble the smaller RJ-11 connectors used for modular telephone cables. For twisted-pair cable length, see Chapter 2, Table 2-1.

A MII to AUI converter cable, available from Sun, enables the 10/100 Mbps Ethernet interface to run over 10 Mbps coaxial Ethernet networks. Other MII Ethernet connectivity products are available from third parties.

Figure 1-3 and Figure 1-4 illustrate types of network cables and possible implementations of 10/100BASE-T Ethernet.

Set up the network using Sun or third-party components. To obtain the best results, read any applicable manufacturer instructions. Be aware that Sun Microsystems cannot guarantee the performance of any components that are not purchased from Sun.

Figure 1-3 Types of Network Cables Used

Figure 1-4 Example of 10/100BASE-T (Twisted-Pair) Ethernet

Multiplexer boxes require a transceiver when used with the Ethernet applications described in this manual. Although these transceivers are compatible with Sun equipment, Sun Microsystems does not guarantee the performance of any component that was not purchased from Sun.

Many transceivers are compatible with both level-1 and level-2 Ethernet. To operate these transceivers with Sun equipment, set the device for level-2 operation following the manufacturer's instructions.

Sun equipment conforms to the Ethernet 10/100BASE-T standard, which states that the 10/100BASE-T Link Integrity Test function should always be enabled on both the host and the hub. If you have problems verifying connection between Sun equipment and your hub, verify that your hub also has the link test function enabled. See "Failure of Network Communications", and refer to the manual provided with your hub.