Network Planning
3-3
For small installations, the network manager’s duties may only require a few
hours a week. For larger installations, the network manager’s position may be a
full-time job.
Determine Application Needs
Think about how people on the network plan to use it. Will they be printing,
exchanging mail, or transferring files steadily, or occasionally throughout the
day? Will some users regularly access a multi-user database, transfer large
graphics or CAD files, or launch applications from a server?
LocalTalk usually meets the needs of a majority of your network users, but is
inadequate for the network "power users" whose tasks require extensive data
transfers. These users need the higher performance of Ethernet. Depending
upon your users’ application needs, you might want to consider a hybrid network
of LocalTalk and Ethernet.
Consider Future Expansion
As your network needs grow, your network should also grow. Hasty additions to
your network make network maintenance difficult and time-consuming. Plan to
install more cabling than you think you will need. With adequate preparation,
adding another device to the network can often be as simple as plugging in
another network connection.
Determine Whether You Can Use Existing Wiring
You may be able to use existing wiring with your installation. All UTP wire used
between hub and hub, or hub and device, should conform to the IEEE Standard
802.3 Draft 10, Section 14.4, Media Specification. In general, this is ordinary,
unshielded twisted-pair wiring of Type 2, or higher grades of type 3, 4 or 5. If you
are unsure of the type of UTP wiring you have ask your building or property
manager.
The physical limitations and regulations on the use of your building’s wiring can
greatly affect your choice of network layouts. Evaluate your building and existing
wiring, jacks, etc., to determine whether you can use existing wiring to set up the
network, or whether new wiring will need to be installed. If you have no
experience in this area, have the building manager or a telephone installer
determine whether you can use existing wiring.
If you are installing the AsantéHub in a wiring closet, at a minimum you need to
know the jack numbers (destinations) of the wire pairs in the closet. Consult a
qualified network installer to perform this procedure.
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