XikeStor SKS7300-8F4X Layer 2 Managed 5G+10G Network Switch

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and management of your XikeStor SKS7300-8F4X Layer 2 Managed Switch. This device is designed for high-speed network environments, offering advanced features for studios, NAS clusters, and enterprise infrastructure. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.

Image: Front view of the XikeStor SKS7300-8F4X switch, illustrating its 8x5G RJ45 ports and 4x10G SFP+ ports, along with key features like VLAN, Spanning Tree Protocol, QoS, Port Mirroring, Link Aggregation, and Port Security.

2. Product Overview

2.1 Key Features

• High-Performance Chip: Equipped with a Realtek RTL9313 industrial switch chip, supporting 2.5G/5G/10G Base-T copper modules and mainstream SFP+ optical modules for stable operation in diverse network environments.
• 8+4 Full Port Wire-Speed Forwarding: Features 8 auto-sensing 2.5G/5G RJ45 ports and 4 10G SFP+ ports, ensuring non-blocking forwarding across all ports. Offers a switching capacity of 160Gbps and a packet forwarding capability of 119.04Mpps, preventing packet loss even under full load. Ideal for 4K/8K editing, high-speed NAS connections, and broadband aggregation.
• Silent Active Cooling: Incorporates a metal casing, heat fins, and a temperature-controlled silent fan, maintaining noise levels at or below 35dB under load. Provides over 20% higher heat dissipation efficiency compared to passive cooling.
• Web/CLI Dual Management: Offers intuitive management via both a Web GUI and a Command Line Interface (CLI), with a Console-USB cable included. Supports SSH/SNMP v3 and a full suite of enterprise L2+ features, including 802.1Q VLAN (MAC/IP-based VLAN, QinQ, Voice VLAN), Link Aggregation (Static/LACP), ERPS ring protection, IGMP Snooping, QoS with 8 queues, ACL, and sFlow port mirroring.

2.2 Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• XikeStor SKS7300-8F4X Switch Unit
• 19-inch Rack Mount Brackets (Left and Right)
• Bracket Mounting Screws
• Console Cable (for management serial connection)
• Rubber Feet (4 pcs)
• Power Cord

3. Setup

3.1 Physical Installation

1. Rack Mounting (Optional): Attach the included rack mount brackets to the sides of the switch using the provided screws. Secure the switch into a standard 19-inch rack.
2. Desktop Placement: If not rack-mounting, attach the four rubber feet to the bottom of the switch to prevent slipping and ensure proper airflow. Place the switch on a stable, flat surface.
3. Grounding: Connect a grounding wire to the grounding terminal on the switch and to a proper earth ground. This provides 6KV lightning protection.

3.2 Network Connections

1. RJ45 Ports: Connect your 2.5G/5G compatible devices (PCs, workstations, WiFi 6 access points, NAS, network cards) to the 8 auto-sensing RJ45 ports using standard Ethernet cables.
2. SFP+ Ports: For 10G connections, insert compatible SFP+ optical modules into the 4 SFP+ slots and connect fiber optic cables to your 10G network devices.

3.3 Power Connection

Connect the power cord to the AC power inlet on the rear panel of the switch and then plug it into a suitable AC power outlet (100-240V, 50/60Hz).

Image: External features of the XikeStor SKS7300-8F4X switch, showing rack mount holes, the 100-240V power input, and the 6KV lightning protection grounding terminal.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Power On

After connecting the power, the switch will automatically power on. The system will perform a self-test. During startup, the fan may operate at maximum speed, then reduce speed once the system is stable and temperature-controlled.

4.2 LED Indicators

The front panel features LED indicators to monitor the switch status:

• SYS LED: Indicates system status. (e.g., Solid Green for normal operation, Blinking for system activity).
• PWR LED: Indicates power status. (e.g., Solid Green when powered on).
• Act/Link LEDs (per port): Indicates port activity and link status. (e.g., Solid Green for a stable link, Blinking for data activity).
• Speed LEDs (per port): Indicates the connection speed of the port (e.g., 5G, 2.5G, 1G).

5. Management Interface

The SKS7300-8F4X switch offers two primary methods for management: Web-based Graphical User Interface (GUI) and Command Line Interface (CLI).

5.1 Web GUI Access

1. Ensure your management PC is connected to an RJ45 port on the switch and is on the same network segment.
2. Open a web browser and enter the default IP address of the switch. (Refer to the label on the bottom of the switch for the default IP address and login credentials. The default password may be blank or 'admin'.)
3. Enter the username and password to log in to the Web GUI.

5.2 CLI Access

1. Connect the included Console-USB cable from your management PC to the Console port on the switch.
2. Use a terminal emulation program (e.g., PuTTY, Tera Term) on your PC to establish a serial connection to the switch.
3. Configure the serial port settings (e.g., baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits) as specified in the device documentation.
4. Log in using the default credentials.

5.3 Supported L2+ Features

The switch supports a comprehensive set of Layer 2+ features for advanced network management:

• VLAN: IEEE 802.1Q VLAN, MAC/IP-based VLAN, QinQ, Voice VLAN.
• Link Aggregation: Static and LACP (Link Aggregation Control Protocol).
• Spanning Tree Protocol: STP, RSTP, MSTP for loop prevention.
• ERPS Ring Protection: Ethernet Ring Protection Switching for network resilience.
• IGMP Snooping: Optimizes multicast traffic.
• QoS (Quality of Service): 8 queues for traffic prioritization.
• ACL (Access Control List): For traffic filtering and security.
• Port Mirroring: For network monitoring and analysis.
• SSH/SNMP v3: Secure remote management.

Image: Screenshot showing both the Web GUI and CLI interfaces for managing the XikeStor SKS7300-8F4X switch, demonstrating dual management capabilities.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cooling System

The SKS7300-8F4X features an active cooling system with a metal casing, heat fins, and a temperature-controlled silent fan. This design ensures efficient heat dissipation, keeping the device cool even under heavy load and in 24-hour continuous operation environments like data centers and server rooms.

• Ensure adequate airflow around the switch. Do not block ventilation openings.
• Regularly clean dust from the fan vents to maintain optimal cooling performance.

Image: Diagram illustrating the powerful active cooling system of the XikeStor SKS7300-8F4X, highlighting airflow, metal casing, and fan components for efficient heat dissipation.

6.2 Firmware Updates

Periodically check the manufacturer's website for firmware updates. Keeping the firmware up-to-date ensures optimal performance, security, and access to new features.

7. Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter.

7.1 No Power

• Ensure the power cord is securely connected to both the switch and the power outlet.
• Verify that the power outlet is functional by plugging in another device.
• Check the PWR LED on the front panel. If it is off, there might be a power issue.

7.2 No Link/Activity on Port

• Check the Ethernet or fiber cable connection. Ensure it is securely plugged into both the switch and the connected device.
• Verify that the connected device is powered on and functioning correctly.
• Try a different port on the switch or a different cable.
• For SFP+ ports, ensure the SFP+ module is correctly inserted and compatible.

7.3 Cannot Access Web GUI/CLI

• Web GUI: Ensure your management PC's IP address is in the same subnet as the switch's default IP address. Verify the default IP address from the product label.
• CLI: Confirm the Console-USB cable is properly connected and the serial port settings in your terminal program match the switch's requirements.
• Verify the username and password. If forgotten, a factory reset might be necessary (consult support for this procedure).

7.4 Slow Network Performance

• Check for network loops. Spanning Tree Protocol should prevent this, but misconfigurations can occur.
• Ensure all connected devices are operating at their expected speeds.
• Monitor port utilization via the management interface to identify bottlenecks.
• Verify cable quality and length, especially for high-speed connections.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

9.1 Warranty Information

The XikeStor SKS7300-8F4X switch comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty. Additionally, initial defects reported within 30 days of purchase are eligible for immediate replacement.

9.2 Customer Support

For assistance with setup, operation, or any technical issues, please contact XikeStor customer support. We aim to respond to all inquiries within 24 hours.

• Refer to the contact information provided with your product packaging or on the official XikeStor website.
• Have your product model number (SKS7300-8F4X) and purchase details ready when contacting support.

10. Safety Information

Please observe the following safety precautions to prevent damage to the device or injury to yourself:

• Do not open the device casing. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
• Keep the device away from water, moisture, and extreme temperatures.
• Ensure the device is placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
• Use only the provided power adapter or a compatible replacement.
• Properly ground the device using the dedicated grounding terminal to protect against electrical surges.