If you are managing local area networks that extent the UTP capabilities then most likely some kind of fiber optic connection is installed. Recently I evaluated couple Cisco switches and I ordered one Cisco Switch 2940-8TF for testing. Please make sure to read the product details for ordering the right fiber cable. Most of the equipment I have has a ST connector; Cisco 2940 has a integrated 100BASE-FX port with MT-RJ connector. Check Wikipedia for more information on optical fiber connectors.
Cisco Catalyst 2940-8TF
The Cisco Catalyst 2940-8TF is a member of the Catalyst 2940 Series Switches, small, standalone, managed switches with 8 Fast Ethernet ports and a single integrated Fast Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet uplink. The switches are designed to be used outside the wiring closet in the end-user workspace, such as classrooms or conference rooms, and feature a durable metal shell, no fan for silent operation, easy wall or under-the-desk mounting, a security lock slot to prevent theft, and an available cable guard to lock down cables and help prevent theft.
Complete with a simple web-based Express Setup, a free Java-enabled web-based monitoring and configuration tool, and the rich functionality of Cisco IOS, this switch provides comprehensive functionality and manageability for classrooms, conference rooms, or other small workgroup environments. Easy to install and manage, periodic software updates for life, and built to last, these switches provide outstanding investment protection and the lowest total cost of ownership in its product class.
- 8 Ethernet 10/100 ports + 1 Ethernet 100BASE-FX + 1 1000BASE-X SFP port (one uplink active at a time)
- Wall-mountable, standalone, managed switch
- Catalyst 2940 Standard Image (SI) software
- Available with optional Cable Guard
During the installation I collected some screenshots. Take a look and check out the web and telnet interface of Cisco 2940 switch here.
WS-C3560G-24PS-E
I really enjoyed reading your blog, you bring up some very good points
HeyThanksForThePiCs
I have a question that is harder than I thought it would be.
But, I’m assuming I can connect two 2940’s with MJ-RT MJ-RT cable.
Cisco’s product specs says can be connected via MJ-RT to SC Multimode as if it was a feature but maybe also a requirement.
Obviously, I’m new to fiber and have always used RJ-45 CAT5/CAT6 cables and unaware of what my fiber options are.
I’ve already ordered a pair of 2940’s but unsure about which fiber cables to buy.
Since fiber is more expensive than copper, I’m reluctant to just throw cables at my experiments since it can get needlessly expensive.
Thanks in advance.