ONline Ethernet BNC Module

Installation Guide

Document Number 17-00103-4

Printed March 1995

Model Number: 5106M-BNC

3Com Corporation
118 Turnpike Road
Southborough, MA 01772-1886
U.S.A.
(508) 460-8900
FAX (508) 460-8950
Federal Communications Commission
Notice
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment
in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which
case you must correct the interference at your own expense.
Canadian Emissions Requirements
Cet appareil numrique respecte les limites de bruits
radiolectriques applicables aux appareils numriques de Classe A
prescrites dans la norme sur la matriel brouilleur: "Appareils
Numriques", NMB-003 dicte par le Ministre des
Communications.
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio
noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the
interference-causing equipment standard entitled "Digital
Apparatus", ICES-003 of the Department of Communications.
VDE Class B Compliance
Hiermit wird bescheinigt, dass der 5106M-BNC in
ebereinstimmung mit den Bestimmungen der Vfg 243/1991
funkentstert ist.
Der Deutschen Bundespost wurde das Inverkehrbringen dieses
Geraetes angezeigt und die Berechtigung zur eberprefung der
Serie auf Einhaltung der Bestimmungen eingereumt.
Einhaltung mit betreffenden Bestimmugen kommt darauf an, dass
geschirmte Ausfuehrungen gebraucht werden. Fuer die
Beschaffung richtiger Ausfuehrungen ist der Betreiber
verantwortlich.
This is to certify that the 5106M-BNC is shielded against radio
interference in accordance with the provisions of Vfg 243/1991.
The German Postal Services have been advised that this equipment
is being placed on the market and that they have been given the
right to inspect the series for compliance with regulations.
Compliance with applicable regulations depends on the use of
shielded cables. The user is responsible for procuring the
appropriate cables.
EN55022/CISPR22 Compliance
This equipment conforms to the Class A emissions limits for a
digital device as defined by EN55022 (CISPR22).
ii ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide
VCCI Class 1 Compliance
This equipment is in the 1st Class category (information equipment
to be used in commercial or industrial areas) and conforms to the
standards set by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference by
Information Technology Equipment aimed at preventing radio
interference in commercial or industrial areas.
Consequently, when the equipment is used in a residential area or
in an adjacent area, radio interference may be caused to radio and
TV receivers, and so on.
Read the instructions for correct handling.
UK General Approval Statement
The ONcore Switching Hub, ONline System Concentrator, and
ONsemble StackSystem Hub are manufactured to the International
Safety Standard EN 60950 and are approved in the UK under the
General Approval Number NS/G/12345/J/100003 for indirect
connection to the public telecommunication network.
Disclaimer
The information in this document is subject to change without
notice and should not be construed as a commitment by 3Com
Corporation. 3Com Corporation assumes no responsibility for any
errors that may appear in this document.
Copyright Statement
1995, by Chipcom Corporation, a subsidiary of 3Com
Corporation. Printed in U.S.A. All rights reserved. 3Com is a
registered trademark of 3Com Corporation. ONcore is a registered
trademark of Chipcom Corporation. The information contained
herein is the exclusive and confidential property of 3Com
Corporation. No part of this manual may be disclosed or
reproduced in whole or in part without permission from 3Com
Corporation.
Trademarks
Because of the nature of this material, numerous hardware and
software products are mentioned by name. In most, if not all
cases, these product names are claimed as trademarks by the
companies that manufacture the products. It is not our intent to
claim these names or trademarks as our own.
Artel, Chipcom, Ethermodem, Galactica, ONcore, ORnet,
StarBridge, and TriChannel are registered trademarks of Chipcom
Corporation.
Chipcom OpenHub, G-Man, LANsentry, MultiProbe, ONdemand,
ONline, ONsemble, PowerRing, SL2000, SL3000, SL4000,
StackJack, StackSystem, and SwitchCentral are trademarks of
3Com Corporation.

The Chipcom Multichannel Architecture Communications System is

registered under U.S. Patent Number 5,301,303.
XNS is a trademark and Ethernet is a trademark of Xerox
Corporation.

DEC, DECnet, the Digital logo, DELNI, POLYCENTER, VAX, VT100,

and VT220 are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation.

3ComFacts, Ask 3Com, CardFacts, NetFacts, and CardBoard are

service marks of 3Com Corporation.

3Com, LANplex, BoundaryRouting, LanScanner, LinkBuilder,

NETBuilder, NETBuilderII, ParallelTasking, ViewBuilder, EtherDisk,
Etherl\Link, EtherLink Plus, EtherLink II, TokenLink, TokenLink Plus,
and TokenDisk are registered trademarks of 3Com Corporation.
3ComLaser Library, 3TECH, CacheCard, FDDILink, FMS, NetProbe,
SmartAgent, Star-Tek, and Transcend are trademarks of 3Com
Corporation.

CompuServe is a registered trademark of CompuServe, Inc.

3Com registered trademarks are registered in the United States,
and may or may not be registered in other countries. Other brand
and product names may be registered trademarks or trademarks of
their respective holders.

Restricted Rights
Use, duplication, or disclosure by the Government is subject to
restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1) (ii) of the Rights in
Technical Data and Computer Software clause at
DFARS 252.227-7013.

Printed on recycled paper.

ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide iii

iv ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide
 Contents

How to Use This Guide

Audience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xiii
Structure of This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xiv
Document Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xv
3Com Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvii
Reference Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvii

Chapter 1 Introduction
The BNC Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Chapter 2 Designing and Expanding the Network

Understanding the General Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Basic Network Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Connecting to an End-Node Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Understanding Equivalent Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Calculating Maximum Link Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Using TriChannel Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Understanding BNC Module Restrictions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Chapter 3 Installing and Operating the Module

Precautionary Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Unpacking Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Quick Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Dip Switch Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Dip Switch Functionality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Channel Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Isolated Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide v

 Port Enable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Changing the Dip Switch Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Jumper Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Strapping the Jumper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Storing the Jumper Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Installing the Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Configuring the Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Port Enable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Network Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Saving Module Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Showing Module Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
Monitoring the Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
LED and Network Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16

Chapter 4 Troubleshooting
Quick Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Troubleshooting Using the Port Activity LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Technical Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Appendix A Specifications
General Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
Physical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
Electrical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
Mechanical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3

Appendix B Technical Support

On-line Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
Email Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
World Wide Web Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
Support from Your Network Supplier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2

vi ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide

 Support from 3Com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3
Returning Products for Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4
Accessing the 3Com MIB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4
3Com Technical Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5

Index

ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide vii

viii ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide
Figures
Figure 1-1. The BNC Module in an ONline Environment . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Figure 1-2. Repeater Regeneration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Figure 2-1. End-Node Connection to the ONline BNC Module . . . . . 2-6
Figure 2-2. The Path of a Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Figure 2-3. Calculating Maximum Link Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Figure 2-4. The 3Com TriChannel Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Figure 3-1. BNC Module Dip Switch Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Figure 3-2. BNC Module Jumper Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Figure 3-3. Termination Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Figure 3-4. Installing a BNC Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Figure 3-5. BNC Module Cable Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Figure 3-6. Front Panel of the BNC Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15

ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide ix

x ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide
Tables
Table 2-1. Seven Basic Network Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Table 2-2. Equivalent Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Table 2-3. BNC Module Restrictions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Table 3-1. Procedures for Completing Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Table 3-2. Dip Switch SW1 Channel Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Table 3-3. Front Panel LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16
Table 3-4. Network Check Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Table 4-1. Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Table 4-2. Troubleshooting Using the Port Activity LEDs . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide xi

 How to Use This Guide

This guide outlines installation and operation procedures for the 3Com
ONline Ethernet BNC Module. Keep this guide near the ONline
concentrator where your ONline modules are installed.

Audience
This guide is intended for the following people at your site:

Network manager or administrator

Hardware installer

ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide xiii

Structure of This Guide
This guide contains the following chapters:

Chapter 1, Introduction Introduces the principal features of the ONline

Ethernet BNC Module.

Chapter 2, Designing and Expanding the Network Describes

general rules for incorporating the BNC Module into your network.

Chapter 3, Installing and Operating the Module Provides illustrated

procedures for installing the BNC Module into the ONline System
Concentrator.

Chapter 4, Troubleshooting Provides help in isolating and correcting

problems that may arise during the installation process and during normal
operation.

Appendix A, Specifications Provides electrical, environmental, and

mechanical specifications, as well as other information for the module.

Appendix B, - Technical Support Lists the various methods for

contacting the 3Com technical support organization and for accessing
other product support services.

Index

xiv ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide

Document Conventions
The following document conventions are used in this manual:

Convention Indicates Example

Courier text User input In the Agent Information Form,

enter MIS in the New Contact
field.
System output After pressing the Apply
button, the system displays
the message
Transmitting data.
Bold command Path names Before you begin, read the
string readme.txt file located in
/usr/snm/agents.
Italic text in braces User-substituted Use the following command to
identifiers show port details:
SHOW PORT {slot.all} VERBOSE
Capitalized text in Keyboard entry Type your password and press
plain brackets by the user [ENTER].
Italics Text emphasis, Ensure that you press the Apply
document titles button after you add the new
search parameters.

ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide xv

 Convention Indicates Example

Note: A Note. The Note: Use STP lobe

information is cables for your system.
important
Caution: A Caution. A Caution: Do not put
condition may your installation
damage diskettes on a
software or magnetic surface.
hardware This may damage the
diskettes.
Warning: A Warning. A Warning: Wear eye
condition may protection when
threaten performing these
personal safety maintenance
procedures.

Related Documents

This section provides information on suppo rting documentation, including:

3Com Documents

Reference Documents

xvi ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide

3Com Documents
The following documents provide additional information on 3Com
products:

17-Slot ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation

Guide Explains how to install, operate, and manage the 3Com ONline
17-Slot System Concentrator (Models 5017C-LS and 5017C with load
sharing).

6-Slot ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation

Guide Explains how to install, operate, and manage the 3Com ONline
6-Slot System Concentrator.

ONline Ethernet Management Module Installation and Operation Guide

Describes how to install the ONline Ethernet Network Management
Module in the ONline System Concentrator and explains the LEDs on the
module faceplate. This guide also provides instructions for connecting a
terminal to the module and describes the management commands
necessary to perform management tasks on the concentrator and on
remote devices.

ONline Management Commands Guide Provides an alphabetized

reference resource describing all ONline management commands.

For a complete list of 3Com documents, contact your 3Com representative.

Reference Documents
The following documents supply related background information:

Case, J., Fedor, M., Scoffstall, M., and J. Davin, The Simple Network
Management Protocol, RFC 1157, University of Tennessee at Knoxville,
Performance Systems International and the MIT Laboratory for Computer
Science, May 1990.

Rose, M., and K. McCloghrie, Structure and Identification of

Management Information for TCP/IP-based Internets, RFC 1155,
Performance Systems International and Hughes LAN Systems, May 1990.

ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide xvii

1 Introduction

This chapter introduces you to the ONline Ethernet BNC Module (model
number 5106M-BNC), referenced throughout this manual as the BNC
Module. In addition to an overview of product features, and a general
theory of repeater operation, this chapter includes a sample application of
the BNC Module in an ONline environment.

To manage the BNC Module using an ONline Ethernet Management

Module (EMM), the EMM must be at Version v2.00 or greater.

The BNC Module

The BNC Module is a six-port repeater unit with built-in media attachment
units (MAUs). Each port attaches directly to a thin-wire (10BASE2)
segment. Compatible with IEEE 802.3 specifications, this module provides
full repeater functionality, allowing you to connect up to six thin-wire
Ethernet segments to your network. An example of this is shown in
Figure 1-1.

Introduction 1 - 1
 Figure 1-1. The BNC Module in an ONline Environment

Figure 1-1 shows two segments connected to the BNC Module. Note that
each segment must be grounded (only once) and terminated with 50 ohm
termination on both ends. In this example, the bottom segment is
externally terminated at both ends. When the BNC connection serves as an
end point to the segment, also shown in this figure, termination can be set
through dip switch settings on the BNC Module.

Additional features of the BNC Module include:

TriChannel Architecture - the module can be assigned to any of

three Ethernet networks in an ONline System Concentrator.

Isolated Network Capability - a fourth network can be created, in

which the module does not communicate on the Ethernet bus
(backplane).

Automatic Partitioning - when the number of collisions, or duration

of any collision, exceeds a threshold, the module automatically
disables the port, and then enables the port when it again detects
good data.

Transceiver Lockup Protection - when a data packet which exceeds

the legal Ethernet packet size is received, the module inserts gaps in
the repeater output to prevent transceiver lockup.

1 - 2 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

 Hot Swap Capability - installation or removal of this module will
not affect operation of any other module when the concentrator is in
a power-up state.

On-board Termination and Grounding Option - termination and

grounding can be set internal or external to the BNC Module, on a
per port basis, as shown in Figure 1-1.

Theory of Operation
Every signal suffers a loss of power as it travels from transmitting device to
receiving device. The longer the cable length between transmitting and
receiving devices, the weaker the signal gets during transmission, thus
lowering the chances that the receiving device will be able to interpret the
data correctly. To compensate for this, regenerative repeaters are used to
bolster the signal as it passes through the network. As shown in
Figure 1-2, the BNC Module restores amplitude, phase and frequency to
the signal before sending the signal onto the cable.

Figure 1-2. Repeater Regeneration

Introduction 1 - 3
2 Designing and
Expanding the Network

The first step in designing your network is to understand how big the
network will be. Whether the total length end-to-end is 100 meters, 1,000
meters, or 4,000 meters, will play a role in how you configure your
network.

This chapter describes the general rules you should follow to ensure your
network configuration conforms to the distance limitations imposed by
Ethernet and standard networking equipment.

The chapter is divided into the following subsections:

Understanding the General Rules

Connecting to an End-Node Device

Understanding Equivalent Distance

Calculating Maximum Link Distance

Using TriChannel Architecture

Understanding BNC Module Restrictions

Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 1

Understanding the General Rules
As part of your network design, it is important to consider your network
size. For instance, is the network (end-to-end) 100 meters, 1000 meters,
4000 meters, or more? What are your plans for expansion? Your answers
play a role in how you configure your network. For example, once the
network expands beyond a certain size, you need to add a bridge or other
internetworking device.

This section describes general rules for configuring an Ethernet network

using fiber as the backbone medium. It also provides rules to ensure that
your network configuration conforms to distance limitations imposed by
Ethernet and networking equipment.

This section includes:

Basic Network Rules

Basic Network Rules

This section outlines the basic network rules and 3Coms recommendations
for these rules. For more hardware-specific information on the BNC
module, refer to Appendix A.

2 - 2 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Table 2-1 outlines the seven basic rules to keep in mind when you construct
your network.

Table 2-1. Seven Basic Network Rules

Rule Definition Recommendations/Notes

1 If possible, use Use 62.5 micron cable to conform

10BASE-FB as the with the IEEE 10BASE-F and
backbone medium. upcoming ANSI FDDI standards.
Use ST-type connectors.
2 Wire the backbone in Make sure to lay extra fiber cables.
a star topology to The extra cost is small and you will
isolate faults. find you need them as your network
grows.
The star topology conforms to FDDI
wiring as well -- just make sure to
run at least two fiber strands to
every backbone connection.
3 The maximum Fiber The 4200 meters is the maximum
Ethernet network distance between any two
diameter is 4200 transceivers on the network.
meters of fiber cable.
The 4200 meters does not include
the transceiver cable (that is, drop or
patch cable) that connects a device
with an external transceiver.
Transceiver cables can extend up to
50 meters. Thus, total network
diameter can be as much as 4300
meters (4200 m + 2 * 50 m)
between any two nodes.

Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 3

 Table 2-1. Seven Basic Network Rules (Continued)

Rule Definition Recommendations/Notes

4 Certain LAN devices Many LAN products delay the signal

on the network shrink that goes through them. This is
the maximum Fiber known as equivalent distance. Every
Ethernet network microsecond delay reduces the
diameter to less than maximum link distance. In fact,
4200 meters. every microsecond delay shrinks the
network diameter by approximately
200 meters of fiber cable. Table 2-2
lists the Equivalent Distances for
other 3Com products.
5 Assume that one This is a conservative rule of thumb.
meter of coaxial or For example, the actual equivalence
twisted pair is equal to is about 1.1 meters of coaxial for
one meter of fiber every meter of fiber. For simplicity,
cable. assume one meter.

2 - 4 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

 Table 2-1. Seven Basic Network Rules (Continued)

Rule Definition Recommendations/Notes

6 The fiber link distances In general, on 62.5 micron cable,

must not exceed the you can go up to 4000 meters
limits imposed by the point-to-point using the ONcore or
optical power budget. ONline Fiber Modules. If you have
poor quality cable or cross many
patch panels, you may have to
sacrifice some distance.
Some older Ethernet fiber optic
products are less powerful than
ONcore Fiber Module optics. So
when connecting to these products,
remember that the least powerful
device determines the maximum
point-to-point distance.
7 When in doubt, use a If you are not certain if you have
bridge. exceeded allowable network
distances, use a bridge to extend
the network.

Connecting to an End-Node Device

The BNC Module can be connected directly to an end-node device located
up to 180 meters away. A sample configuration is shown in Figure 2-1.

Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 5

 Figure 2-1. End-Node Connection to the ONline BNC Module

In this diagram, PCs A, B, and C are connected to a BNC Module

configured for Ethernet Network 1. PCs D and E are connected to a BNC
Module configured for Ethernet Network 2. The addition of an ONline
Ethernet Bridge Module allows users on Ethernet Network 1 to
communicate with users on the other side of the network, operating on
Ethernet Network 2.

IEEE 802.3 specifications allow for a maximum of 30 stations on each

thin-wire segment. When designing your network, remember the port on
the BNC Module counts as one station.

Understanding Equivalent Distance

Like most transmission devices, a repeater delays the signal as it passes
through the unit. Though the delay is small, it does reduce the maximum
network diameter. This distance reduction is known as Equivalent Distance.
Repeaters typically have a 1.8 microseconds delay, which results in an 800
meter Equivalent Distance after collision enforcement is taken into account.

2 - 6 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

The maximum Ethernet network diameter between two transceivers is
about 4200 meters. Since a typical repeater reduces this amount by 800
meters, one repeater between two transceivers would reduce the
maximum distance to 3400 meters.

As previously suggested, other devices on the network also have an

Equivalent Distance that must be subtracted from the maximum 4200
meters. These are listed in Table 2-2.

Table 2-2. Equivalent Distance

Equivalent
LAN Product Distance
(meters)

ONline Ethernet BNC Module (5106M-BNC) 900

Incoming signal to BNC port 450
Outgoing signal from BNC port 450
ONline Ethernet Fiber Module (5104M-FIB, 5104M-FP) 190
Incoming signal to fiber port 140
Outgoing signal from fiber port 50
10BASE-FB Star Coupler (8 or 14 port) 180
ONline Ethernet FOIRL Module (5104M-FL) 560
Incoming signal to FOIRL port 330
Outgoing signal from FOIRL port 230
ONlineEthernet10BASE-TModule(5108M-TP,5112M-TP) 585
Incoming signal to twisted pair port 420
Outgoing signal from twisted pair port 165
ONline Ethernet Transceiver Module (5103M-AUIM) 0
ONline Ethernet Repeater Module (5102M-AUIF) 800

Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 7

 Table 2-2. Equivalent Distance

Equivalent
LAN Product Distance
(meters)

Incoming signal to AUI Port 600

Outgoing signal from AUI Port 200

Calculating Maximum Link Distance

To determine the maximum allowable link distance between any two
transceivers on an Ethernet network:

Begin with 4200 meters.

Subtract the appropriate number of meters for the signal entering

the designated module through the port and the signal entering the
same module from a concentrator backplane (see Table 2-2).

Figure 2-2 depicts the path of a signal through a BNC Module. Note the
Equivalent Distance for both incoming and outgoing signals.

2 - 8 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Figure 2-2. The Path of a Signal

The examples which follow calculate the link distance between the two
transceivers in Figure 2-3.

Figure 2-3. Calculating Maximum Link Distance

Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 9

 Example:

Using the information in Table 2-2, we are able to determine that the
overall Equivalent Distance of devices on this path is greater for signals
going from Transceiver B to Transceiver A. Assuming this, the B-to-A path is
a worst-case scenario and should be used to determine whether the link
meets the 4200 meter Ethernet link maximum. The following steps outline
how to determine whether the configuration meets Ethernet distance
limitations.

1. Begin with 4200 meters.

2. Subtract the fiber equivalent distance of 420 meters for the signal
entering the 10BASE-T Module from Transceiver B, and 50 meters for
the signal exiting the Fiber Module within the same concentrator (see
Table 2-2).

3. Subtract the fiber equivalent distance of 140 meters for the signal
entering the Fiber Module in the top concentrator, and 450 meters
for the signal exiting the BNC Module within the same concentrator.

4. Subtract the sum of intervening cable lengths:

100m + 2000m + 50m + 150m = 2300m

5. The remainder is 840 meters (4200m - 420m - 50m - 140m - 450m -

2300m), which means the configuration is legitimate.

Example:

The Equivalent Distance for incoming and outgoing signals through the
BNC Module is the same. This is not always the case with traffic through
other ONline modules. The following example calculates the overall
Equivalent Distance from Transceiver A to Transceiver B, as shown in
Figure 2-3.

1. Begin with 4200 meters.

2. Subtract 450 meters for the signal entering the BNC Module.
Subtract 50 meters for the signal exiting the Fiber Module from the
top concentrator (see Table 2-2).

2 - 10 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

 3. Subtract 140 meters for the signal entering the Fiber Module in the
lower concentrator, and 165 meters for the signal exiting the
10BASE-T Module connected to Transceiver B.

4. Subtract the sum of intervening cable lengths:

100m + 2000m + 50m + 150m = 2300

5. The remainder is 1095 meters (4200m - 450m - 50m - 140m - 165m -

2300m), which means the configuration is legitimate.

Summary
Though both paths are legitimate, the B to A path is a worst-case scenario
and should be used to determine whether the link meets the 4200 meter
Ethernet distance limitations.

Using TriChannel Architecture

You can assign the BNC Module to any of the 3 networks in an ONline
System Concentrator, as shown in Figure 2-4.

Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 11

 Figure 2-4. The 3Com TriChannel Architecture

In this diagram, port 6 of the BNC Module (located in the Building #1

concentrator) is connected to a thin Ethernet (10BASE2) coax segment.
Using the ONline Bridge Module and another BNC Module in the Building
#2 concentrator, users in Building #1 can communicate with users working
on another thin Ethernet segment in Building #2.

2 - 12 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Understanding BNC Module Restrictions
The BNC Module uses significantly more power than other modules. As a
result, there is a restriction for the number of BNC modules which can be
installed in a single ONline System Concentrator. We recommend that you
follow the guidelines outlined in Table 2-3 when installing BNC Modules in
an ONline System Concentrator.

Table 2-3. BNC Module Restrictions

ONline System Power Maximum Number of BNC

Concentrator Supply Modules

17-Slot Concentrator 325 Watt 11

17-Slot Concentrator 270 Watt 8
6-Slot Concentrator 200 Watt No Restrictions Apply

The information in Table 2-3 is based on the assumption that one of each
of the following modules is also installed in the concentrator with the BNC
Modules.

ONline Controller Module

ONline Fiber Module

ONline Ethernet Management Module

If you are unsure how the configuration of your concentrator will

accommodate these guidelines, you can receive further assistance by
contacting your dealer or 3Com Technical Support (see Technical
Assistance in Chapter 4).

Designing and Expanding the Network 2 - 13

3 Installing and
Operating the Module

This chapter describes installation procedures for the BNC Module. Please
read the precautionary procedures before unpacking the module.

For your convenience, a quick reference installation chart has been

included. The remainder of the chapter describes:

dip switch settings and their functionality

jumper settings and their functionality

module installation into the ONline System Concentrator

module configuration

module LED interpretations

LED and network verification

Precautionary Procedures
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage static-sensitive devices on circuit
boards. Follow these precautions when you handle the BNC Module:

Do not remove the board from its anti-static shielding bag until you
are ready to inspect it.

Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 1

 Handle the board by the faceplate only.

Use proper grounding techniques when you install the BNC Module.
These techniques include using a foot strap and grounded mat or
wearing a grounded static discharge wrist strap. An alternate
method is to touch the grounded rack or other source of ground just
before you handle the module.

Unpacking Procedures
Use the following procedure when unpacking your BNC Module:

1. Verify that the module model number listed on the side of the
shipping carton matches the model number you ordered
(5106M-BNC).
Note that the product model number printed on the shipping box
differs from the model number on the product. The model number
on the shipping box contains the prefix 3C9.

2. Remove the module from the shipping carton.

3. Remove the module from the anti-static shielding bag and inspect it
for damage. If the module appears to be damaged, replace it in the
anti-static shielding bag, return it to the shipping carton, and contact
your local supplier.

3Com suggests you keep the carton and anti-static shielding bag in which
your module was shipped in case you later want to repackage the module
for storage or shipment.

We also suggest that you record the serial number of your BNC Module.
We have provided a log for this and other information specific to your
modules under the Slot Usage Chart in Appendix B of the ONline System
Concentrator Installation and Operation Guide.

3 - 2 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Quick Installation
Table 3-1 outlines the steps necessary to complete the installation of your
module. If you are familiar with these instructions, you may want to use
this table as a checklist; otherwise, consult the remainder of this chapter.

Table 3-1. Procedures for Completing Installation

Step Procedure Reference

1. Verify that your network complies Designing &

with the basic rules for network Expanding the
design. Network / Chapter 2
2. Unpack the module. UnpackingProcedures
3. Configure the dip switch and Dip Switch Settings
jumper settings. Dip Switch
Functionality
Jumper Settings
4. Insert the module into a blank slot Installing the Module
in the concentrator and tighten the
faceplate screws.
5. Attach one end of a BNC cable to Installing the Module
a port on the module, and the
other end to the device you want
connected to the module.
6. Verify LED status for normal Monitoring the Front
operation. Panel

Note: For potential problems,

consult the troubleshooting
techniques in Chapter 4.

Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 3

Dip Switch Settings
The BNC Module has one dip switch component. Figure 3-1 shows the
location and default settings of the SW1 dip switch component. Your
network configuration may require that you reconfigure one or more of
these switches. Although the function of each switch is identified on the
module, as shown in Figure 3-1, we suggest that you read the dip switch
functionality descriptions outlined in the following section before installing
the module into the concentrator.

Note: All dip switch configurations can be overridden through an

Ethernet Management Module (EMM) operating under
version 2.1 (or greater) software.

Figure 3-1. BNC Module Dip Switch Location

3 - 4 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Dip Switch Functionality
The functionality of the eight switches on the SW1 dip switch component is
divided into the following two categories:

Channel Selection

Port Enable

Channel Selection
The BNC Module is equipped with the technology to work with the ONline
System Concentrator's unique TriChannel Architecture. As stated in Chapter
2, the module can be assigned to any of three networks in the
concentrator, or configured for an isolated channel. Refer to Chapter 1 in
the ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation Guide for a
complete discussion of ONline's TriChannel Architecture.

The Channel Selection switches (BP1 and BP0) are used to configure the
ports to their appropriate channels. All Channel Selection switches are
shipped from the factory in the ON position, set for channel 1. To
reconfigure the module to a different channel, refer to the information in
Table 3-2.

Table 3-2. Dip Switch SW1 Channel Settings

Channel BP1 BP0

Channel 1 (default) On On
Channel 2 On Off
Channel 3 Off On
Isolated Off Off

Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 5

 Isolated Mode
In order for the module to operate in isolated mode, dip switch settings 7
and 8 must be in the OFF position. Under this configuration, the six ports
communicate exclusively with one another, as a separate segment.

Port Enable
The Port Enable switches (PRT1 through PRT6) are used to enable or disable
use of the six ports on the module. The ON or up position enables the port
to transmit and receive data over the network to which the module is
assigned. Likewise, the OFF or down position disables the port. The Port
Enable switches are shipped from the factory in the ON position.

The six ports operate independently of one another. If your configuration

requires a hardware connection with only one BNC port, then the Port
Enable switch for only that port needs to be enabled.

Changing the Dip Switch Settings

The following procedure should be used to manually change dip switch
configurations:

1. Unplug cables from the module.

2. Remove the module from the concentrator.

3. Make the necessary change(s) to the dip switch settings.

4. Insert the module back into the concentrator.

5. Reconnect the cables.

3 - 6 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Jumper Settings
The BNC Module has twelve jumper locations for selection of termination
and grounding. Figure 3-2 shows the location and default setting of each
jumper.

Figure 3-2. BNC Module Jumper Locations

Your network configuration may require that you reconfigure one or more
of these jumper settings. For example, if you are connecting the BNC
Module to a transient point on an Ethernet segment which already has
proper termination at both ends, termination on the BNC Module should
be removed. If the point to which you are connecting the BNC Module is an
end point of the segment, you must terminate the segment through a
jumper setting on the BNC Module (see Figure 3-3).

Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 7

 Figure 3-3. Termination Options

Every segment should be grounded in one location. If you know that the
segment is already properly grounded to a point on the network, store the
chassis ground jumper cap in a non-active position (see Storing the Jumper
Cap to follow).

Note: Termination and chassis ground settings cannot be

overridden by an Ethernet Management Module. All other
jumpers are for factory use only.

3 - 8 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Strapping the Jumper
For proper grounding or termination, all four pins on a jumper block must
be covered. Use the six position jumper cap to cover the set of pins, as
shown below.

If you must use two slender jumper caps in place of the six position jumper
cap, strap the pins vertically, not horizontally, as shown below.

Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 9

Storing the Jumper Cap
When a jumper cap is not being used, it should be stored where it can be
easily accessed if the configuration for a port changes such that internal
termination or grounding is needed. One option is to store the cap on the
module. An example is shown below.

Note that there is only one right way to store the jumper cap on the BNC
Module. An attempt to store the cap over any other set of pins, other than
those shown above, may cause problems with data integrity on your
network.

Installing the Module

Once you have established the environment into which the BNC Module is
to be installed, and verified that all configuration rules have been met for
this type of configuration, you are ready to install the module into the
concentrator. You do not need to power down the ONline System
Concentrator to install the BNC Module. As mentioned in Chapter 1, you
can insert the module while the concentrator is operating. This procedure
will not effect operation of any other module in the concentrator. When
installing the module, please follow the precautionary procedures outlined
earlier in this chapter.

3 - 10 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Follow the steps below to install the BNC Module:

1. Locate a blank slot in the concentrator. If necessary, remove a blank

panel on the concentrator to expose an empty slot for the module.

2. Insert the module into the board guides at the top and bottom of the
slot and slide it into the concentrator, as shown in Figure 3-4. Make
sure the connector is well seated into the backplane of the
concentrator.

Figure 3-4. Installing a BNC Module

3. Fasten the spring-loaded screws on the front of the module faceplate

to the concentrator with your fingers (do not overtighten).

4. Attach the coax cable to the port on the front of the module as
shown in Figure 3-5.

Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 11

 Figure 3-5. BNC Module Cable Connection

5. Attach the other end of the coax cable to the device you want
connected. If necessary, refer back to the configurations depicted in
Chapter 2.

Configuring the Module

The ONline Ethernet Management Module (EMM) provides both local and
remote network management capabilities for the ONline System
Concentrator and its modules. Via the EMM software, all the dip switch
settings on the BNC Module can be overridden.

When you install the BNC Module into a concentrator where an EMM is
operating, the ports are automatically disabled and the network (channel)
assignment defaults to isolated mode. This section briefly describes the
management commands available to enable the ports and set the network
to which the module should be assigned. For additional information on
EMM commands, refer to the ONline Ethernet Network Management
Module Installation and Operation Guide.

3 - 12 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Port Enable
You can enable or disable use of the ports on the BNC Module. When a
port is enabled, it can transmit data onto and receive data from the
network to which the module is assigned.

Use the following EMM command to enable or disable a specific port:

SET PORT {slot.port} MODE {enable}
{slot.all} {disable}

Network Selection
The BNC Module is equipped with the technology to work with the ONline
System Concentrator's unique TriChannel Architecture. This feature
allows you to assign the module to any of three networks (or isolated
mode) on the ONline System Concentrator backplane. Refer to Chapter 1 in
the ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation Guide for a
complete discussion of ONline's TriChannel Architecture. Use the following
EMM command to set the module to a network or set it to isolated mode:
SET MODULE NETWORK {ethernet_1}
{ethernet_2}
{ethernet_3}
{isolated}

Note: The dip switch settings on the module refer to the

backplane connection as the channel connection. The
channel setting and the network setting are the same.
Modules set to the same network will communicate
together.

Saving Module Configuration

You should issue the SAVE MODULE_PORT command from the EMM after
configuring the BNC Module to save the configuration to EMM memory.

Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 13

Showing Module Configuration
You can display status information about the BNC Module using the
following commands:

SHOW MODULE

SHOW MODULE VERBOSE

SHOW PORT

SHOW PORT VERBOSE

For example, the SHOW PORT 5.1 VERBOSE command under EMM
software version 3.0 might display the following information about a BNC
Module in slot 5 of an ONline System Concentrator.
ONline> show port 5.1 verbose [ENTER]
Port Mode Status Network General Information

5.01 ENABLED OKAY 1

Port Connector: BNC

Port Mode: ENABLED
Termination: TERMINATED
Grounding: GROUNDED

Note that termination and chassis ground must be set manually, through
the jumper settings on the module. Information about these settings,
retrieved through the EMM commands, is read-only.

Refer to the ONline Ethernet Network Management Module Installation

and Operation Guide for additional information about these commands.

3 - 14 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Monitoring the Front Panel
The twelve LEDs on the front panel of the module allow you to monitor
repeater operation on each port. Figure 3-6 shows the location of these
indicators. A description for each LED state is provided in Table 3-3.

Figure 3-6. Front Panel of the BNC Module

Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 15

 When installed and functioning properly, the Activity and Status LEDs
should be ON. If you detect a potential problem, refer to Chapter 4,
Troubleshooting.

Table 3-3. Front Panel LEDs

LED Name Color State Indicates

Activity yellow Off No packets are being received by

(Ports 1 - 6) the BNC port from the attached
device.
On Packets are being received by the
BNC port from the attached
device.
Status green Off Port disabled.
(Ports 1 - 6) On Port enabled and healthy.
Port Partitioning, as described in
1 blink Chapter 1.

LED and Network Verification

The ONline Controller Module is equipped with an LED check button on the
front panel. The LED check button is used to:

verify LED operation

verify channel assignments

When you press this button, the module initiates a test to all modules in
the concentrator. All LEDs should respond by lighting continuously for
approximately five seconds. Any LED that does not light is defective.

3 - 16 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

After the five seconds elapse, the diagnostic continues with a network
check of all modules. Each Port Status LED should respond by blinking the
number of times to correspond with the network to which the module is
assigned. This sequence repeats five times. Table 3-4 explains the network
check codes.

Table 3-4. Network Check Codes

LED State Network Configuration

1 Blink Module is configured for network 1

2 Blinks Module is configured for network 2
3 Blinks Module is configured for network 3
Off Module is isolated (operates independently of
any network)

The LED check button and the Controller Module are explained in more
detail in the Installation Guide for the Controller Module.

Installing and Operating the Module 3 - 17

4 Troubleshooting

This chapter focuses on how to troubleshoot potential problems associated

with the BNC Module using a fault isolation checklist as well as the Port
Status and Port Activity LEDs.

Quick Checks
You may be able to isolate a problem by performing the following quick
checks:

Confirm that all cables are connected securely at both ends. Verify
that the connectors are not bent.

Verify that the dip switch settings (or EMM configurations) are
appropriate for your application.

Verify that the jumper settings (termination and chassis ground) are
appropriate for your application. Note that termination is required on
both ends of the segment. Only one location on the segment should
be grounded.

Verify that the screw locks on the faceplates are securely fastened.
(Screw locks must be fastened to ensure data integrity).

Troubleshooting 4 - 1
 If your application passes all of these checks, go to the next section,
Troubleshooting With the Port Status LEDs.

Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs

A solid illumination on the Port Status LED indicates that the port is
enabled. A non-illuminated or blinking Port Status indicator may be a sign
that the port detects a potential problem. Table 4-1 provides
troubleshooting suggestions for each LED State.

Table 4-1. Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs

LED Possible Troubleshooting

Indication
State Problem Suggestions

Off Port Disabled Disabled port on Enable the port by

the BNC Module reconfiguring the
appropriate Port
Enable switch on the
module or through
the EMM.
Concentrator not Check the
powered on Controller Module
Power LED.
Burned out Press the LED check
Status LED button on the
Controller Module.
Damaged slot in Try another
the concentrator slot.
concentrator
Damaged BNC Replace module.
Module

4 - 2 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Table 4-1. Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs

LED Possible Troubleshooting

Indication
State Problem Suggestions

1 Blink Port Damaged cable Replace the cable

Partitioning connected to the with an external
BNC port port terminator. If
Port this action removes
Partitioning the indication of
occurs when port partitioning,
the number of the actual problem
consecutive lies within the
collisions cable. Replace cable
exceeds 64, or as necessary.
when the
length of any Damaged port Switch to another
collision on the BNC port on the BNC
exceeds 1000 Module Module. If
bits. communication
cannot be
established over
another port on the
same module, verify
communication of
another module in
the same
concentrator slot.

Troubleshooting 4 - 3
 Table 4-1. Troubleshooting Using the Port Status LEDs

LED Possible Troubleshooting

Indication
State Problem Suggestions

1 Blink Port Coax segment is Terminate coax

(continued) Partitioning not properly cable with proper
(continued) terminated on value at each end.
both ends
Network loop Trace the physical
cable to verify that
the devices on the
network are not
connected in such a
way that data is
circulating back to
its point of origin.

Any time a port is enabled, it should be properly terminated at both ends of

the segment. As noted in Table 4-1, the module automatically disables any
port after 64 consecutive collisions or any collision in excess of 1000 bits.
This is to prevent excessive collisions from disrupting traffic on the other
ports.

4 - 4 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Troubleshooting Using the Port Activity LEDs
There may be situations where a Port Activity LED may not light. Use the
troubleshooting suggestions in Table 4-2 to help isolate why this has
occurred.

Table 4-2. Troubleshooting Using the Port Activity LEDs

LED Troubleshooting
Indication Possible Problem
State Suggestions

Off No traffic The port is disabled. Enable the port.

arriving at
port
The power is off. Check the Controller
Module Power LED.
The Port Activity LED Press the LED check
has burned out. button on the
Controller Module.
The port is damaged. Connect the cable to
a different port on
the BNC Module.
The backplane Reinsert the BNC
connection is Module. If this fails,
defective; no DC try inserting the
power on module. module into another
concentrator slot.
The BNC Module is Install a different
damaged. BNC Module into the
same slot of the
concentrator.

Troubleshooting 4 - 5
Technical Assistance
You can receive assistance for installing and troubleshooting the
Transceiver by calling either your 3Com reseller or 3Com Technical Support.
Be prepared to supply a representative with the following information:

Description of the problem

Steps you have taken to try and correct the problem

Type and software version of the ONline network management

module being used

Version of software installed on your Transceiver

Status of the front panel LEDs

Configuration of your concentrator

(you may find it helpful to refer to the Slot Usage Chart in Appendix B
of the ONline System Concentrator Installation and Operation Guide
for a record of this information)

Refer to Appendix B for instructions on contacting Technical Support for

your product.

4 - 6 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

A Specifications

This appendix lists specifications for the BNC Module. There are five
subsections:

General Specifications

Physical Specifications

Electrical Specifications

Environmental Specifications

Mechanical Specifications

General Specifications
Model Number: 5106M-BNC

Backplane Interface: 96-pin edge connector, compatible with the 3Com

ONline System Concentrator.

Data Rate: 10 Mbps (million bits per second)

Data Encoding at BNC: per IEEE 802.3 / Ethernet

Collision Detection: 100% deterministic

Specifications A - 1
 Port Partitioning: after 63 consecutive collisions

Maximum Number of Nodes: 1024

Configuration Rules: Supports IEEE 802.3

Host Interface: 3Com ONline System Concentrator bus interface standard

Fully Manageable: The 3Com ONline Ethernet Management Module and

the 3Com ONline Network Control System

Physical Specifications
Port Connectors: Six BNC connectors

Electrical Specifications
Power Requirements: 2.4 Amps @ +5 Volts, 0.4 Amps @ +12 Volts

Fuse: 4.0 Amps Fast Blow for +5 Volt input, 1.0 Amp for +12 Volt input

Consumption: 12.0 Watts @ +5 Volts, 4.8 Watts @ +12 Volts

Environmental Specifications
Operating Temperature: 0 to 50 C (32 to 122 F)

Storage Temperature: -30 to 65 C (-22 to 149 F)

Humidity: less than 95%, non-condensing

BTU/hr: 29.0

A - 2 ONline Ethernet BNC20 Module Installation Guide

Mechanical Specifications
Dimensions: 1.0" W x 10.25" L x 8.5" H
(2.54 cm x 26.04 cm x 21.6 cm)

Weight: 1.25 lb. (0.57 kg.)

Specifications A - 3
B Technical Support

3Com provides easy access to technical support information through a

variety of services. This appendix describes the following services:

On-line Technical Support

Support from Your Network Supplier

Support from 3Com

Returning Products for Repair

Accessing the 3Com MIB

3Com Technical Publications

On-line Technical Support

3Com offers worldwide product support through the following on-line
systems:

Email Technical Service

World Wide Web Site

Technical Support B - 1
Email Technical Support
You can contact the Integrated Systems Division (formerly Chipcom) on the
Internet for technical support using the e-mail address
techsupp@chipcom.com.

World Wide Web Site

You can access the latest networking information on the 3Com World
Wide Web site by entering our URL into your Internet browser:
http://www.3Com.com/

This service features news and information about 3Com products,

customer service and support, the 3Com latest news releases, selected
articles from 3TECH , the 3Com award-winning technical journal, and
more.

You can contact the Integrated Systems Division on the World Wide Web
by entering our URL into your Internet browser:
http://www.chipcom.com/

There are links between both WWW pages to view information from all
3Com divisions.

Support from Your Network Supplier

If additional assistance is required, contact your network supplier. Many
suppliers are authorized 3Com service partners who are qualified to provide
a variety of services, including network planning, installation, hardware
maintenance, application training, and support services.

B - 2 ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide

 When you contact your network supplier for assistance, have the following
information ready:

Diagnostic error messages

A list of system hardware and software, including revision levels

Details about recent configuration changes, if applicable

If you are unable to contact your network supplier, see the following
section on how to contact 3Com.

Support from 3Com

If you are unable to receive support from your network supplier, technical
support contracts are available from 3Com.

For direct access to customer service for Integrated Systems Division

products in:

U.S.A. and Canada - call (800) 724-2447

Asia Pacific - call (508) 787-5151

Europe - Refer to the table below. For European countries not listed,
call 31 30 60 299 00

Country Telephone Number Country Telephone Number

Belgium 0800 71429 Netherlands 06 0227788
Denmark 800 17309 Norway 800 11376
Finland 0800 113153 Spain 900 983125
France 05 917959 Sweden 020 795482
Germany 0130 821502 U.K. 0800 966197
Ireland 1 800 553117 U.S. 800 876-3266
Italy 1678 79489

Technical Support B - 3
 For access to customer service for all 3Com products, call (800) 876-3266.

You can also contact the Integrated Systems Division (ISD) on the Internet
by using the e-mail address techsupp@chipcom.com.

Returning Products for Repair

A product sent directly to 3Com for repair must first be assigned a Return
Materials Authorization (RMA) number. A product sent to 3Com without
an RMA number will be returned to the sender unopened, at the senders
expense.

To obtain an RMA number for Integrated Systems Division products

(formerly Chipcom), use the following numbers.

Country Telephone Number Fax Number

U.S. and Canada (800) 724-2447 (508) 787-3400
Europe (44) (1442) 275860 No Fax
Asia Pacific (508) 787-5296 (508) 787-3400

Accessing the 3Com MIB

The 3Com Management Information Base (MIB) for the Integrated Systems
Division describes commands that enable you to manage 3Com
SNMP-based products. The MIB is available over the Internet on an
anonymous FTP server. Updates to these MIBs are released as new 3Com
products are introduced.

To access Internet versions:

1. FTP to ftp.chipcom.com (151.104.9.65).

2. Enter the login name anonymous.

B - 4 ONline Ethernet BNC Module Installation Guide

 3. Enter your full Internet e-mail address as the password
(for example, jdoe@company.com).

4. Change to the mib or schema directory using the cd /pub/mibs or

cd /pub/mibs/schemas command.

5. To view the 3Com MIB, OID, or schema entries, enter the dir
command.

To pause the display, press [CTRL-S].

To continue the display, press [CTRL-Q].

6. Copy the MIB, OID, or schema files to your current directory using the
appropriate command (for example, get chipcom.mib).

7. To exit the FTP session, invoke the quit command.

3Com Technical Publications

If you have comments or questions on 3Com Integrated Systems Division
Technical Publications documents, please contact the Technical Publications
group by FAX (508) 229-1551.

Technical Support B - 5
 Index

Numerics F
3Com Bulletin Board Service (3ComBBS), B-3 FCC notice, ii
Features
A Automatic Partitioning, 1-2
Hot Swap Capability, 1-3
Audience of Manual, xiii Isolated Mode, 1-2
On-board Grounding, 1-3
B On-board Termination, 1-3
Transceiver Lockup Protection, 1-2
Backbone TriChannel Architecture, 1-2
Fiber Medium, 2-2 Fiber Link Distances, 2-5
bulletin board service, B-3 Front Panel LEDs
Port Activity, 3-15, 3-16
C Port Status, 3-15, 3-16

Cabling, 3-11
Chassis Ground, 3-7
I
Configuration Rules Installation
General, 2-2, 2-3, 2-5 Cabling, 3-11
Dip Switch Settings, 3-4
D Jumper Settings, 3-7
Quick Reference, 3-3
Dip Switch Functionality Isolated Mode, 3-6
Channel Selection, 3-5, 3-6
Port Enable, 3-6
Dip Switch Settings, 3-4, 3-5, 3-6
J
Jumper Cap
E Storing, 3-10
Strapping, 3-9
EMM Management Commands Jumper Settings
Assign Module to a Network, 3-13 Chassis Ground, 3-7
Enable/Disable Ports, 3-13 Termination, 3-7
End-Node Device Connections , 2-5
Equivalent Distance, 2-6, 2-8, 2-9, 2-10

Index 1
M V
MIB, B-4 VDE compliance, ii

N
network supplier support, B-2

O
ONline Controller Module, 3-16
ONline Ethernet Management Module, 3-12
on-line technical services, B-1

P
Port Activity LEDs, 3-15, 3-16, 4-5
Port Partitioning, 1-2, 4-3, 4-4
Port Status LEDs, 3-15, 3-16, 4-2

R
Repeater Operation, 1-3
Repeater Restrictions, 2-13
returning products for repair, B-4

S
SNMP Commands, B-4
Star Topology, 2-3

T
Technical Assistance, 4-6
Technical Support, 4-6, B-1
Termination, 3-7
TriChannel Architecture, 2-12, 3-13
Troubleshooting
Port Activity LEDs, 4-5
Port Status LEDs, 4-2, 4-3, 4-4
Quick Checks, 4-1
Technical Assistance, 4-6

2 Index