Hello I have two HP V1910-48G, which from my understanding are re-branded 3Com products. I'm running out of ports on both switches and both are deployed in different scenario's.
1) I need more ports and the new switch, HP V1910-24G, will be located in the same rack. Is there a reason to pay for expensive SFP ports rather than a CAT6 in this location? The switch will be used for VOIP, desktops with web browsing & simple file sharing.
2) I need more ports and the new switch, another HP V1910-48G, will be located on another floor. The entire run will be less than 100 meters. Does it make sense here to go SFP or maybe just run two CAT6 cables and somehow set them for teaming?
Thanks for your help. Today is the first day I'm attempting to learn about SFP ports, fiber cables, and the costs associated with this option!
Best Answer
GigE will run fine over Cat6 up to 100 meters (and, in most cases, Cat5e as well). In general, you would need to use fiber SFP modules if:
Inside the rack, I see no reason to use SFP+fiber between the two switches unless you're completely out of 10/100/1000 ports and you can't vacate any. Even in that case, I'd suggest using 1000base-T SFP modules, since a Cat6 patch cord will likely be cheaper and more readily available than a fiber one.
Going between floors, you need to be aware of items 1 and 2, above. Item 3 probably doesn't apply, but it would be a good idea to verify with an electrician just in case.