Connecting Cisco 6509 with Non Cisco device

[raju]

Hello ,

We have two separate Networks with different IP address Class , one running in Cisco Platform with 6509 MLS and other running based on 3com Layer 3 Swotch (Core Builder 3500) separated by 1.8 KM distance . We are trying to connect both the Networks through Fast Ethernet (100 Base FX ) using MM fiber (62.5 microns ) . We can see the light on both the side fast ethernet ports , but can't ping each other . We created separate Vlan on 6509 Switch and assinged that Vlan to that Fast ethernet port port used for Integration. On Router side of 6509 , we assigned IP address range of Other side Network for this Vlan . RIP is enabled on both the sides . Any other suggestions ....

Thanks with regards,

Raju

[konigl]

What kind of optical interface do you have at each end? Are you using media converters, or do you have actual modules? If you are using 100FX ports direct into each switch, make sure duplex is set to full. If you are using 10/100TX ports and media converters, make sure the 10/100 port is set to 100 megabit, and duplex is set to full (do not let it autodetect these settings). Also make sure the media converter is set to full.

Fast Ethernet over 62.5-micron MMF is rated to go as far as 2.0km, if the ports at both ends of the link are running at full duplex. If they are running at half duplex, that distance is reduced to 412m. If one is half duplex and the other end is full, then you have a duplex mismatch that needs to be resolved: the link won't work properly until both ends match. (Go full duplex -- the only good reason to use half duplex is if you're connecting to a Fast Ethernet shared media hub.)

It sounds like you have the right idea about configuring the VLAN on the 6509, to connect it to the IP network on the CoreBuilder 3500. Make sure you don't have an IP address conflict or subnet mask difference between the two switches.

If you have Layer 1, 2, and 3 issues resolved, then you should at least be able to ping from the Cisco 6509 to the 3Com CB3500.

Hope this helps.

[raju]

Thanks for your reply . We don't use any media convertors . It is directly plugged on 6509 on one end and other end on CB 3500 and both the side are Fast ethernet ports (100 Base FX ). The duplex is full on both the ends and we set this manually . what is the maximum distance it may go ?. I'm sure distance is less than 2 KM ( approximately 1.9 KM ). It looks like configuration on 6509 side is ok , but CB 3500 do not talk with Cisco side and may be some special configuration is required . Any idea pls ...

Regards,

Raju

[7rbowenii]

Raju,

Are you seeing connection lights on the ports themselves? This is the layer-1 connectivity spoken of earlier. You may have to manually crossover the cables, rcv to txmit. Make sure that the VLAN you created on the 6509 exists both in Layer-3 and layer-2. These are just some quick troubleshooting tips. Let me know how this goes for you.

-Bo

[raju]

Hello Bo,

We are getting the light on both the ends and we swap the Tx & Rx on fiber cable , light goes off on both the ends . We reverted back to original position and getting the light again means physical connectivity is ok. I've created Vlan on layer 2 side and assigned the IP address at L3 side for the same Vlan . Any other suggestions to learn or see Non Cisco device ...

Regards,

Raju.