Installation guide

4-6
Making Network Connections
4
10 Mbps Ethernet Collision Domain
Cable Labeling and Connection Records
When planning a network installation, it is essential to label the opposing ends of
cables and to record where each cable is connected. Doing so will enable you to
easily locate inter-connected devices, isolate faults and change your topology
without need for unnecessary time consumption.
To best manage the physical implementations of your network, follow these
guidelines:
• Clearly label the opposing ends of each cable.
• Using your building’s floor plans, draw a map of the location of all
network-connected equipment. For each piece of equipment, identify the devices
to which it is connected.
• Note the length of each cable and the maximum cable length supported by the
switch ports.
• For ease of understanding, use a location-based key when assigning prefixes to
your cable labeling.
• Use sequential numbers for cables that originate from the same equipment.
• Differentiate between racks by naming accordingly.
• Label each separate piece of equipment.
• Display a copy of your equipment map, including keys to all abbreviations at each
equipment rack.
Table 4-6 Maximum Ethernet Cable Length
Type Cable Type Maximum Length Connector
10BASE-T Twisted Pair, Categories 3, 4, 5 or better
100-ohm UTP
100 m (328 ft) RJ-45