HP AdvanceStack 100Base-T Hub-8TXE Installation and operating manual

HP AdvanceStack 100Base-T Hub-8TXE
Installation and Reference Guide

© Copyright 1996 Hewlett-Packard Company
All Rights Reserved
Reproduction, adaptation, or translation without prior written permission is prohibited,
except as allowed under the copyright laws.
Publication Number
J3235-90001
Edition 1
November 1996
Applicable Product
HP J3235A AdvanceStack 100Base-T Hub-8TXE
Disclaimer
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.
HEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY MAKES NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND
WITH REGARD TO THIS MATERIAL, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Hewlett-Packard shall not be liable for errors contained
herein or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing,
performance, or use of this material.
Hewlett-Packard assumes no responsibility for the use or reliability of its software on
equipment that is not furnished by Hewlett-Packard.
Warranty
See the warranty booklet included with the product.
A copy of the specific warranty terms applicable to your Hewlett-Packard product and
replacement parts can be obtained from your HP sales and service office or HP
authorized reseller.
Hewlett-Packard Company
8000 Foothills Boulevard, m/s 5551
Roseville, California 95747-5551
http://www.hp.com/go/network_city

Package Contents i
Package Contents
Carefully unpack the contents of the package and verify them against the
checklist given below.
Package Checklist
æHP AdvanceStack 100Base-T Hub-8TXE (Part No. HP J3235A)
æPower cord, one of the following:
Australia/New Zealand (8120-6810)
Denmark (8120-6814)
Europe (8120-6811)
Japan (8120-6798)
Switzerland (8120-6815)
United States/Canada (8120-6812)
United Kingdom (8120-6809)
æFour rubber foot pads
æInstallation and Reference Guide (J2325-90001)
æWarranty booklet
Please inform your dealer immediately should there be any wrong, missing, or
damaged parts.
If possible, retain the carton, including the original packing materials. Use
them again to repack the unit in case there is a need to return it for repair.

Quick Installation iii
Quick Installation
The HP J3235A AdvanceStack 100Base-T Hub-8TXE contains 8 100Base-TX
Fast Ethernet ports. The smart design built into the front display panel
provides a friendly interface that simplifies installation and network
troubleshooting. If you are already familiar with basic network operations, you
should be able to install this hub as described below:
1. Unpack the HP Hub-8TXE.
2. Find a location close to the network devices you need to connect, and within
easy reach of an electrical outlet.
3. Mount the hub on a desktop or any other flat surface. If you are installing
multiple hubs, you can stack them on top of each other (after attaching the
foot pads).
4. Connect any devices that use a standard network interface to the RJ-45
(MDI-X) ports (e.g., a workstation, server, bridge or router). Use 100W
Category 5 STP or 100WCategory 5 UTP cable to connect to the hub, and
be sure the length of any twisted-pair connection does not exceed 100
meters. Refer to Chapter 3 for sample configurations.
5. To cascade to another hub or switch, run straight-through twisted-pair cable
from the (8MDI) cascade port on this switch to any (MDI-X) port on the
other device (or vice versa). Refer to Figure 3.2.
If necessary, you can also cascade between two ports using crossover cable.
However, be sure not to exceed the maximum length between end nodes as
described in Chapter 2.

HP Hub-8TXE Installation and Reference Guide
iv Quick Installation
6. This hub can serve as a stand-alone repeater for small networks, can be
cascaded with compatible devices (e.g., Fast Ethernet hub or switch), or can
be connected to a network interconnection device (e.g., Fast Ethernet bridge
or router).
7. Verify network communications by ensuring that:
• you have made all the necessary connections
• you can access any connected resources
• the hub’s indicators are functioning properly
If you encounter any problems in installing the HP Hub-8TXE, refer to Chapter 2
for a detailed description of installation procedures, Chapter 3 for sample
configurations, or Appendix A for help in troubleshooting.
Note: Refer to Chapter 2 for a more detailed description of calculating the maximum cable
length permitted between two end nodes for Fast Ethernet.

About this Guide v
About this Guide
This guide is designed for the experienced network installer. It describes how
to install and operate the HP Hub-8TXE. After reading this manual, you should
be able to use the front display panel and configure options to manage all your
network connections.
This manual covers the following topics:
Chapter 1 - Product Overview
Brief description of Fast Ethernet, followed by a description of this hub and a
summary of its important features and specifications.
Chapter 2 - Installing the System
Installing an HP Hub-8TXE and making basic network connections.
Chapter 3 - Configuring the Network
Shows sample network configurations for a local area network.
Chapter 4 - Hardware Reference
Detailed description of indicator panel and ports.
Appendices -
Troubleshooting, cable assignments, and product specifications.

Contents
vii
Chapter 1: Product Overview.................................................1-1
Introduction to Fast Ethernet.....................................................................................1-1
HP Hub-8TXE...........................................................................................................1-1
Basic Features ...........................................................................................................1-2
Chapter 2: Installing the System............................................2-1
Pre-Installation Requirements ...................................................................................2-1
Connecting the Hub System......................................................................................2-2
Making a Connection via an MDI-X Port ............................................................2-2
Making a Connection via the MDI Cascade Port .................................................2-3
Distance Limit for Fast Ethernet Cabling.............................................................2-3
Providing Power to the Hub......................................................................................2-4
Verifying Port Status.................................................................................................2-4
Verifying System Operation......................................................................................2-5
Chapter 3: Configuring the Network......................................3-1
Stand-Alone...............................................................................................................3-1
Connecting Multiple Hubs ........................................................................................3-2
Chapter 4: Hardware Reference.............................................4-1
Front Panel ...............................................................................................................4-1
Power..............................................................................................................4-2
Statistical Display for System Performance....................................................4-3
Port Status Display...............................................................................................4-4
RJ-45 Fast Ethernet Ports.....................................................................................4-5
Rear Panel ...............................................................................................................4-6
Power Socket........................................................................................................4-6

HP Hub-8TXE Installation and Reference Guide
viii Contents
Appendix A: Troubleshooting................................................A-1
Diagnosing Hub Indicators........................................................................................A-1
System Diagnostics ...................................................................................................A-2
Power and Cooling Problems ...............................................................................A-2
Installation............................................................................................................A-2
Physical Configuration.........................................................................................A-3
Hub Integrity ........................................................................................................A-3
Appendix B: Port and Cable Assignments.............................B-1
RJ-45 Port ...............................................................................................................B-1
Appendix C: Specifications....................................................C-1
Product Specifications...............................................................................................C-1
Appendix D: Safety and Regulatory Statements..................D-1
Power Precautions......................................................................................................D-1
Safety Information......................................................................................................D-2
Informations concernant la sécurité............................................................................D-3
Hinweise zur Sicherheit..............................................................................................D-4
Considerazioni sulla sicurezza ...................................................................................D-5
Consideraciones sobre seguridad ...............................................................................D-6
Safety Information (Japanese)....................................................................................D-7
Regulatory Statements................................................................................................D-8
Appendix E: Product Support Services ................................E-1
Glossary
Index

HP Hub-8TXE Installation and Reference Guide
Contents ix
List of Figures
Figure 3.1 Stand-Alone Configuration....................................................................3-1
Figure 3.2 Multiple Hub Configuration Using the Cascade Port.............................3-2
Figure 4.1 Front Panel.............................................................................................4-1
Figure 4.2 Indicators ...............................................................................................4-2
Figure 4.3 Rear Panel..............................................................................................4-6
Figure B-1 RJ-45 Connector (on the Hub Side).......................................................B-1
List of Tables
Table B-1 RJ-45 Pin Assignments............................................................................B-1

Product Overview 1-1
Chapter 1: Product Overview
Introduction to Fast Ethernet
Standard 10 Mbits/s Ethernet has served well for past generations of 286 and
386 machines performing simple file transfers. However, with the inevitable
growth in corporate network size and the introduction of fully-functional 32-bit
PC architectures, and operating systems running complex applications, 10 Mbits/s
Ethernet has become a serious bottleneck.
With the recent flood of choices for upgrading media bandwidth, 100 Mbits/s
Fast Ethernet has become the most popular because of its low cost, compatibility
with existing Ethernet applications, and the fact that it can run on top of an
installed base of twisted-pair cabling. Fast Ethernet can be easily integrated
into an existing 10 Mbits/s Ethernet environment with no need for protocol
translation or changes to network software.
HP Hub-8TXE
The HP J323SA AdvanceStack 100Base-TX Hub-8TXE includes 8 Fast
Ethernet ports. It provides a friendly design that simplifies installation and
network troubleshooting. The indicator panel includes Utilization and
Collision rate LEDs, as well as Partition, Link and Traffic LEDs to ease
network management.
The HP Hub-8TXE can be used to relieve common network congestion,
regardless of whether it is caused by too many stations contending for limited
bandwidth or by a server that is supporting too many users. It can significantly
improve access both to key servers and to the network backbone. This hub not
only delivers a vast improvement in network response time, but helps you
maintain outstanding performance as your user community continues to grow.

HP Hub-8TXE Installation and Reference Guide
1-2 Product Overview
Basic Features
• Transmits data at 100 Mbits/s for demanding applications
• Conforms to the IEEE 802.3u repeater specification for 100Base-TX
• Provides 8 RJ-45 100Base-TX ports (using MDI-X wiring)
• Port 8 can serve as an MDI-X port (for connection to network devices such
as workstations or servers) or as an MDI daisy-chain port (for connection to
network devices such as hubs or switches), eliminating the need for
crossover cables
• Supports 100ΩCategory 5 shielded or unshielded cable (STP or UTP)
• Friendly design that monitors network utilization, collisions, link and port
partition status
• LED indicator panel includes Utilization and Collision rate indicators for
reporting hub activity and facilitating problem diagnosis
• Automatically partitions bad ports to protect the network system
• Automatic polarity detection and correction permits automatic adjustment
for wiring errors
• Plug-and-play operation
The HP Hub-8TXE also supports the following basic system safeguards:
• This hub features automatic partitioning and reconnection, jabber lockup
protection, and automatic polarity detection for network cabling.
• With automatic partitioning and reconnection, any port is automatically
isolated if excessive collisions occur on it. When the condition is corrected,
the port is automatically reconnected.

HP Hub-8TXE Installation and Reference Guide
Product Overview 1-3
• With the jabber lock-up function, the hub automatically stops transmission
of abnormal Ethernet frames that may cause data loss for all network users.
(Jabber refers to abnormal Ethernet frames which are much too long and
may come from a malfunctioning Ethernet card.)
• With automatic polarity detection, the hub recognizes and adjusts for
attached cable assemblies which may be wired with incorrect polarity on the
receive pair.

Installing the System 2-1
Chapter 2: Installing the System
This chapter provides information on installing the HP Hub-8TXE, establishing
network connections, and configuring the system. You may install this hub on
any level surface (e.g., a table or shelf) or in a standard EIA equipment rack.
However, please take note of the following minimum site requirements before
you begin.
Pre-Installation Requirements
Before you start actual hardware installation, make sure you can provide the
right operating environment, including power requirements, sufficient physical
space, and proximity to other network devices that are to be connected. Verify
the following installation requirements:
• Power requirements: 100 to 127 VAC / 200 to 240 VAC (±10%) at 50 to 60
Hz. The hub’s power supply automatically adjusts to the input voltage level.
• The hub should be located in a cool dry place, with at least 10 cm. of space
at the front and back for ventilation.
• Place the hub out of direct sunlight, and away from heat sources or areas
with a high amount of electromagnetic interference.
• Check if network cables and connectors needed for installation are available.
• Find a suitable location at the center of the devices you want to link, and
near a power outlet.

HP Hub-8TXE Installation and Reference Guide
2-2 Installing the System
Connecting the Hub System
The HP Hub-8TXE has 8 RJ-45 ports and 1 RJ-45 cascade port. The ports
allow you to make connections to devices such as a workstation, server, bridge or
router. You can also cascade to another compatible hub or switch by
connecting an MDI port on one device (e.g., port 8MDI on this hub) to an MDI-X
port on the other device. Or you can cascade from an MDI port on another
device to any MDI-X port on this hub. See Figure 4.1.
Making a Connection via an MDI-X Port
You can connect an RJ-45 port on the hub to any device that uses a standard
network interface such as a workstation or server, or also to a network
interconnection device such as a bridge or router (depending on the port type
implemented).
1. Prepare the network devices you wish to network. Make sure you have
installed suitable 100BASE-TX network interface cards for making a
connection to any of the hub’s ports. You also need to prepare straight-
through shielded or unshielded twisted-pair cables with RJ-45 plugs at both
ends. Use 100WCategory 5 cable for all connections.
2. Connect one end of the cable to the RJ-45 port of the network interface card,
and the other end to any available (MDI-X) port on the hub. When inserting
an RJ-45 plug, be sure the tab on the plug clicks into position to ensure that it
is properly seated. Using the hub in a stand-alone configuration, you can
network up to 8 nodes.
IDo not plug a phone jack connector into the RJ-45 port. This may damage the hub.
Use only twisted-pair cables with RJ-45 connectors that conform with FCC standards.
Notes: 1. When connecting to port 8, do not use port 8 MDI-X.
2. Make sure each twisted-pair cable does not exceed 100 meters.

HP Hub-8TXE Installation and Reference Guide
Installing the System 2-3
Making a Connection via the MDI Cascade Port
1. To make a direct connection to another compatible repeater or switch, use the
8MDI cascade port. When connecting to this port, remember not to use port
8MDI-X.
2. Prepare straight-through shielded or unshielded twisted-pair cables with RJ-45
plugs at both ends. Use 100WCategory 5 cable for all connections. Connect
one end of the cable to Port 8MDI on this hub, and the other end to a standard
MDI-X port on the other device. When inserting an RJ-45 plug, be sure the
tab on the plug clicks into position to ensure that it is properly seated.
Notes: 1. When connecting to Port 8MDI, do not use Port 8MDI-X.
2. Make sure the length of twisted-pair cable does not exceed 100 meters.
3. To connect to another hub or switch, you may also run straight-through
twisted-pair cabling from an MDI-X port on this hub to a cascade port on
another device. However, if you must connect to another hub or switch via
similar port types at both ends of the cable, use crossover cabling.
Distance Limit for Fast Ethernet Cabling
For 100Base-TX, network diamter is very important, because each packet must
propagate through the Ethernet collision domain before the next packet is sent.
Every 100Base-TX hub (repeater) adds a small propagation delay to the packet,
which can be equated to a certain number of bit times. The propagation delay
(repeater delay) of the HP Hub-8TXE is 80 bit times, or a cable equivalent
length of 72 meters.
The 100Base-TX maximum cable distance (“network diameter”) is 367 meters.
And the maximum distance from a hub to an end-node is 100 meters. To
cascade two 100Base-TX Hub-8TXEs together, we must do this calculation:
For an end-node on one hub to communicate with an end-node on the other
hub, the cable distance from end-nodes to hubs would be 100m + 100m
(perhaps a bit less, but we should consider “worst case”). The packets would

HP Hub-8TXE Installation and Reference Guide
2-4 Installing the System
traverse through both hubs, for a cable equivalent length of 72m + 72m. This
gives:
100m
100m
72m
+ 72m
--------
344m
The maximum “network diameter” for 100Base-TX is 367m, so we can use a
maximum of 367m - 344m, or 23m between the two hubs. Figure 3-2
illustrates this example.
Providing Power to the Hub
1. Power on the hub by plugging the power cord into the power socket at the
rear of the hub, and the other end into a power outlet.
2. Check the LED marked Power on the front panel to see if it is on. The unit
will automatically select the setting that matches the connected input voltage.
Therefore, no additional adjustments are necessary when connecting it to
any input voltage within the range marked on the rear panel.
Verifying Port Status
Check each connection by viewing the port status indicators listed below. (For
a more detailed description of these indicators, refer to Chapter 4.)
Link Indicates that the port has established a valid network connection.
Traffic Indicates traffic traversing the port.
Partition Indicates that the port has been isolated from the hub when pre-
defined collision threshold has been reached.

HP Hub-8TXE Installation and Reference Guide
Installing the System 2-5
If the Link status indicator is not functioning properly, or you experience any
other difficulties in setting up the hub, refer to Appendix A.
Verifying System Operation
Verify that all attached devices have a valid connection. The hub monitors
link status for each port. If any device is properly connected to the hub and
transmitting a link beat signal, the Link indicator lights up for the corresponding
port. If the Link indicator fails to light up when you connect a device to the
hub, check the following items:
• Be sure the twisted-pair cable is properly attached to the connected device
and the hub. Verify that the RJ-45 plug snaps into place when attached.
• See if the twisted-pair cable is functioning properly by using it for another
port and attached device that already displays valid indications when
connected to the network.
• Check the length of the twisted-pair connection to be sure it does not exceed
100 meters.
• Verify that the cable is Category 5.
• Test the adapter for an attached workstation by trying it in another computer
that has been successfully connected to the network.
If you still can’t resolve the problem, please refer to Troubleshooting in Appendix A.

Configuring the Network 3-1
Chapter 3: Configuring the Network
The HP Hub-8TXE allows great flexibility in configuring your network. You
can use it in a stand-alone or multiple hub configuration. Some of the common
applications for this Fast Ethernet hub are described in this chapter.
Stand-Alone
This hub can be used in a simple stand-alone configuration as illustrated below.
In compliance with IEEE 802.3u standards, the maximum cable distance
between the hub and any workstation is 100 meters for twisted-pair cable.
Figure 3.1 Stand-Alone Configuration

HP Hub-8TXE Installation and Reference Guide
3-2 Configuring the Network
Connecting Multiple Hubs
You can easily connect to another hub via the MDI cascade port. Figure 3.2
shows a sample configuration.
Figure 3.2 Multiple Hub Configuration Using the Cascade Port

Hardware Reference 4-1
Chapter 4: Hardware Reference
Before connecting any network device to this hub, please review Chapter 2 for
information on system installation and Chapter 3 for a brief look at common
network architectures. This chapter describes the hardware features of the HP
Hub-8TXE. For easier management and control of the hub, familiarize yourself
with the display indicators and ports.
Front Panel
There are 8RJ-45 MDI-X ports and 1RJ-45 MDI cascade port on the front
panel. Moreover, the system indicators provide a simple interface for
monitoring the hub. The front panel includes a power indicator, a statistical
display for network traffic, and port status indicators as shown below.
100BASE-TX Class II Repeater
Figure 4.1 Front Panel
The indicator panel simplifies monitoring of various network conditions by
providing LEDs that indicate the status of each port and the overall condition of
the hub. It provides all the key information required to manage your network
on a daily basis. The following pages list the indicators and their functions.