Rockwell Automation Ethernet Design Considerations Reference Manual - Manual (Page 50)

50 Rockwell Automation Publication ENET-RM002C-EN-P - May 2013
Chapter 3 Ethernet Infrastructure Features
Flex Links Protocol
The Flex Links protocol provides link-level, physical redundancy in redundant
star topologies. A pair of Layer 2 switch ports are configured to act as a backup to
each other:
• Built into Stratix 8000 and Stratix 8300 switches
• Requires redundant star topology
• Active/standby port scheme
–
Provides an alternate path in case of failures, avoiding loops
– No bandwidth aggregation
– Equal speed ports recommended
– Provides fast fail over for multicast traffic
Distribution Switches
Catalyst 3750 Switch Stack
A S S A
Stratix 8000
Access Switches
A = Active
S = Standby