Connect Ethernet Cables

1. Install the switch in the rack, attach the management cables, and power on the switch.

   See:

   • Install the Switch in the Rack

   • Connecting Management Cables

   • Powering On the Switch

2. Identify the Ethernet cable that you are going to connect.

   See Connecting Ethernet Cables.

3. Loosen the two captive thumbscrews that secure the cover to the cable management bracket.
   
4. Lift the cover off.
   
5. Visually inspect the cable connector.

   The shell should not be bent and should be parallel to the inner boards. If the connector is bent or damaged, use a different cable.

6. Ensure that the retraction strap/lever is in the attached position.
7. Determine if you are installing a dual-part assembly or a single-part assembly.

   Some optical transceiver modules are dual-part assemblies, where the module and the cable are two separate pieces, while other optical transceiver modules are single-part assemblies, where the module and the cable are a single combined unit.

   • If you are installing a dual-part module, go to Step 8.

   • If you are installing a single-part module, go to Step 9.

8. Install the dual-part optical transceiver module.
   1. Remove the protective end cap from the module.
   2. Pull the locking handle into the full horizontal position until you feel the handle click into position.
   3. Verify that you have the transceiver module in the correct alignment before inserting it into the slot.

      The following figure shows the correct alignment for the transceiver module.

      
      
   4. Holding the optical transceiver module by the edges, align the optical transceiver module with the slot in the switch and slide it into the opening.
   5. Applying even pressure at both corners of the optical transceiver module, push the module until it is firmly seated in the slot.
   6. Push the handle closed to lock the optical transceiver module in place.

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      Note - If you pull the locking handle down when the SFP+ or QSFP optical transceiver module is installed, you should remove the optical transceiver module entirely and reinstall it. The handle operates an internal lock. Pulling the handle down can disconnect the module, even though it might appear to be connected.

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9. If you are plugging in a single-part cable assembly (tranceiver and cable combined), orient the cable connector horizontally.

   Esure that the L groove is up for the top row of receptacles, or that the L groove is down for the bottom row of receptacles.

   
   
10. Plug the cable into the connector.

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    Note - The optical tranceiver handle must be closed before attaching the cable to the tranceiver. The handle locks the tranceiver in place in the switch port.

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    • If you are plugging in a fiber dual-part cable assembly (transceiver and cable separate), verify that the handle is in the locked position and connect the cable to the optical transceiver. If the handle is in the unlocked position, you must push it up into the locked position before attaching the cable.

      

    • If you are plugging in a single-part assembly, slowly slide the connector into the receptacle.

      As you slide the connector in, the top of the shell should scrape against the underside of the top of the receptacle.

      • If the cable stops or binds after about 1/4 in. (5 mm) travel, back out and repeat.

      • If the connector stops or binds with about 1/8 in. (2 mm) still to go, back out and repeat.

      
11. Continue to push the connector in until you feel a detent.
12. Place the cable into the open slot on the cable management bracket.
    
13. Repeat steps for all cables to be installed.
14. Replace the cover for the cable management bracket and tighten the screws.
    
15. Route the Ethernet cables so that they do not interfere with other cables, with servicing the switch, or with other systems.

    Use hook and loop fastener straps to bundle and secure the cables.

    See Ethernet Cable Cautions.

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    Note - Do not use cable zip ties to bundle or secure the cable, because the ties damage the wires inside the cable.

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16. Check that the Link LEDs for cabled links are lit green.

    If the Link LED is off, the link is down. If the Link LED flashes, there are symbol errors. See Front Panel LEDs.

17. If installed, close the rack doors to maintain EMI compliance.
18. Finish the installation.

    See Finish the Switch Installation.

Related Information

• Connect the NET MGT Cable

• Power On the Switch