Cisco Catalyst 2950T-24 24-Port Switch User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Cisco Catalyst 2950T-24 24-Port Switch. The Catalyst 2950T-24 is a fixed-configuration, wire-speed Fast Ethernet switch designed for small to medium-sized networks, offering 24 10/100Base-T ports for reliable network connectivity.

2. Safety Information

Observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury and damage to the equipment:

• Ensure proper grounding of the device.
• Do not operate the switch in wet or damp conditions.
• Provide adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Use only the power cord supplied with the device or a suitable replacement.
• Avoid placing heavy objects on the power cord.
• Disconnect power before cleaning or servicing.

3. Product Overview

The Cisco Catalyst 2950T-24 switch features a compact design with all network ports and status indicators located on the front panel for easy access and monitoring.

This image displays the front panel of the Cisco Catalyst 2950T-24 switch. It features 24 RJ45 Ethernet ports for connecting network devices, along with various LED indicators that provide status information for the system and individual ports.

Front Panel Features:

• 24 RJ45 10/100Base-T Ports: For connecting network devices such as computers, servers, and other switches.
• System LED: Indicates the overall operational status of the switch.
• RPS LED: Indicates the status of the Redundant Power System (if connected).
• Port Status LEDs: Each port has an LED to indicate link status, activity, and duplex mode.

Rear Panel Features:

• AC Power Connector: For connecting the power cord.
• Console Port (RJ-45): For local management and initial configuration using a terminal emulator.

4. Setup

4.1 Unpacking and Inspection

Carefully unpack the switch and verify that all components are present and undamaged. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your vendor.

4.2 Site Preparation

Ensure the installation site meets the following requirements:

• Adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Stable surface for desktop placement or a standard 19-inch equipment rack.
• Proximity to a grounded power outlet.
• Operating temperature and humidity within specified ranges (refer to specifications).

4.3 Mounting the Switch

The switch can be placed on a desktop or mounted in a standard 19-inch equipment rack.

• Desktop Placement: Place the switch on a flat, stable surface, ensuring sufficient space around the device for airflow.
• Rack Mounting: Attach the provided rack-mount brackets to the sides of the switch using the supplied screws. Secure the switch into the equipment rack using appropriate rack screws.

4.4 Connecting Power

1. Connect one end of the AC power cord to the power connector on the rear panel of the switch.
2. Connect the other end of the AC power cord to a grounded electrical outlet.
3. The switch will power on automatically. Observe the System LED on the front panel; it should turn green after a brief startup sequence.

4.5 Connecting Network Devices

Use standard Ethernet cables (Category 5 or higher) to connect your network devices (computers, servers, routers, etc.) to the RJ45 ports on the front panel of the switch.

• Insert one end of the Ethernet cable into a port on your network device.
• Insert the other end of the Ethernet cable into any of the 24 RJ45 ports on the switch.
• Verify the Port Status LED for the connected port. A solid green LED indicates a successful link. A blinking green LED indicates network activity.

4.6 Initial Configuration Access

To perform initial configuration or advanced management, connect to the switch's console port:

1. Connect an RJ-45 to DB-9 console cable (often referred to as a rollover cable) to the console port on the rear of the switch.
2. Connect the DB-9 end of the cable to the serial port of a computer.
3. Open a terminal emulation program (e.g., PuTTY, Tera Term) on the computer and configure it with the following settings: 9600 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, no flow control.
4. Press Enter to access the switch's Command Line Interface (CLI).

5. Operation

5.1 Powering On and Off

The switch powers on automatically when connected to a power source. To power off, disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.

5.2 Understanding LED Indicators

• System LED:
  • Solid Green: System is operating normally.
  • Amber: System is performing POST (Power-On Self-Test) or has encountered an issue.
• Port Status LEDs:
  • Solid Green: Link established.
  • Blinking Green: Activity on the port.
  • Off: No link or port disabled.

5.3 Basic Network Connectivity

Once powered on and devices are connected, the switch will automatically forward Ethernet frames between connected devices. For advanced network configurations, such as VLANs or security settings, use the Command Line Interface (CLI) via the console port or a configured in-band management interface.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning

To maintain optimal performance, periodically clean the exterior of the switch with a soft, dry cloth. Ensure the power is disconnected before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners directly on the device.

6.2 Environmental Considerations

Ensure the switch operates within its specified temperature and humidity ranges. Avoid blocking ventilation openings to prevent heat buildup.

6.3 Firmware Updates

Periodically check the Cisco website for available firmware updates. Updating the firmware can provide new features, performance improvements, and security enhancements. Follow Cisco's official documentation for firmware upgrade procedures.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 No Power

• Verify the power cord is securely connected to both the switch and a working electrical outlet.
• Check the power outlet with another device to ensure it is functional.
• Ensure the System LED is illuminated. If not, contact support.

7.2 No Link on a Port

• Ensure the Ethernet cable is securely connected at both ends.
• Try a different Ethernet cable.
• Connect the device to a different port on the switch.
• Verify the connected device is powered on and functioning correctly.
• Check the Port Status LED. If it remains off, there might be an issue with the cable, the connected device, or the switch port.

7.3 Network Connectivity Issues

• Confirm that all devices have valid IP addresses and subnet masks.
• Check for IP address conflicts.
• If using advanced configurations (VLANs, routing), verify the configuration via the CLI.
• Perform basic network tests like pinging other devices on the network.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Cisco website or contact your authorized Cisco reseller. Cisco provides extensive online resources, including documentation, software downloads, and a support community, to assist with product inquiries and issues.