NETGEAR DS108 8-Port 10/100 Mbps Dual Speed Hub User Manual

1. Product Overview

The NETGEAR DS108 is an 8-port 10/100 Mbps Dual Speed Hub designed to connect multiple network devices such as PCs, servers, and peripherals. It facilitates sharing of resources like printers, files, and internet access within a local area network. This hub supports both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps devices without requiring manual configuration, automatically managing network traffic between different speed devices.

Figure 1: NETGEAR DS108 8-Port 10/100 Mbps Dual Speed Hub. This image displays the blue casing of the hub with its eight RJ-45 ports and LED indicators.

Key Features:

• 8-port dual-speed hub for connecting multiple devices.
• Supports both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps network speeds.
• Compact design with a small footprint.
• LED indicators integrated into the RJ-45 jacks for status and bandwidth use.
• Push-button RJ-45 uplink port for network expansion.
• Type 2 repeater functionality.

2. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to set up your NETGEAR DS108 Hub:

1. Unpack the Hub: Carefully remove the DS108 Hub and its power adapter from the packaging.
2. Choose a Location: Place the hub on a flat, stable surface in a well-ventilated area. Ensure it is away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and excessive moisture.
3. Connect Network Devices: Connect your network devices (e.g., computers, printers, servers) to the RJ-45 ports on the hub using standard Ethernet cables. The hub automatically detects the speed (10 Mbps or 100 Mbps) of the connected device.
4. Connect to Main Network (Optional Uplink): If connecting to another hub or switch, use the dedicated uplink port. Press the uplink button to activate this port.
5. Connect Power: Plug the power adapter into the hub's power input, then plug the adapter into a standard electrical outlet. The power LED indicator on the hub should illuminate.
6. Verify Connections: Check the LED indicators on each RJ-45 port. A lit LED indicates an active connection. Flashing LEDs indicate data activity.

3. Operating the Hub

The NETGEAR DS108 Hub operates automatically once powered on and connected. It functions as a central connection point for network devices.

LED Indicators:

Each RJ-45 port on the DS108 Hub has integrated LEDs that provide visual feedback on the connection status and activity:

• Link/Activity LED (Green):
  • Solid Green: Indicates a valid network link at 100 Mbps.
  • Flashing Green: Indicates data activity on the 100 Mbps link.
• Link/Activity LED (Amber):
  • Solid Amber: Indicates a valid network link at 10 Mbps.
  • Flashing Amber: Indicates data activity on the 10 Mbps link.
• Power LED:
  • Solid Green: The hub is powered on.
  • Off: The hub is not receiving power.

The hub's self-learning bridge ensures efficient communication between 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps devices by managing traffic flow, preventing unnecessary congestion.

4. Maintenance

The NETGEAR DS108 Hub is designed for reliable operation with minimal maintenance. Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure its longevity and performance:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the hub. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners, as they may damage the device.
• Ventilation: Ensure that the hub's ventilation openings are not blocked. Proper airflow is crucial to prevent overheating.
• Cable Management: Keep network cables neatly organized to prevent accidental disconnections or damage.
• Power Supply: Use only the power adapter supplied with the hub. Using an incorrect power adapter can damage the device.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate the hub within its specified temperature and humidity ranges to avoid performance issues or damage.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your NETGEAR DS108 Hub, refer to the following troubleshooting tips:

• No Power:
  • Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to the hub and a working electrical outlet.
  • Check if the power outlet is functional by plugging in another device.
  • Verify the Power LED on the hub is illuminated.
• No Link on a Port:
  • Check that the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the hub port and the network device.
  • Try a different Ethernet cable to rule out a faulty cable.
  • Ensure the connected network device is powered on and functioning correctly.
  • If connecting to another hub/switch, ensure the uplink button is correctly engaged if using the uplink port.
• Slow Network Speed:
  • Verify the Link/Activity LED color for the port. Green indicates 100 Mbps, Amber indicates 10 Mbps. If a 100 Mbps device is showing Amber, check its settings or cable.
  • Ensure all connected devices are operating correctly and not generating excessive network traffic.
  • While the DS108 is a hub, not a switch, it shares bandwidth among all connected devices. High traffic from one device can affect others.
• Intermittent Connection:
  • Check all cable connections for looseness or damage.
  • Ensure the hub is in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
  • Test with different cables and devices to isolate the source of the issue.

If problems persist, consult the NETGEAR support website for further assistance.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official NETGEAR website or the documentation included with your purchase. NETGEAR provides resources for product registration, software downloads, and customer service assistance.

Visit the official NETGEAR Support website for the most up-to-date information and assistance.