Dell PowerConnect
Executive Summary
The Dell PowerConnect series is a discontinued line of network switches produced by Dell, designed for business computer networking. The brand was first announced in July 2001 and was later re-branded as Dell Networking in 2013. The PowerConnect series encompasses two main classes of switches: classic switches with fabric and firmware based on Broadcom or Marvell, and switches based on technology obtained from Force10 Networks after Dell's acquisition of it in 2011. The PowerConnect series includes a range of models, such as the 2200, 2300, 2600, and 2700 series, which offer various features and specifications. The series also includes the W-series, a Wi-Fi platform, and the PowerConnect-J (Juniper Networks) and B (Brocade) series, which are no longer sold. In this article, we will delve into the architecture and design of the Dell PowerConnect series, its performance and thermal characteristics, market positioning, and verdict.Architecture & Design
The Dell PowerConnect series is designed for business computer networking, connecting computers and servers in small to medium-sized networks using Ethernet. The series includes pre-configured web-managed models as well as more expensive managed models. The PowerConnect switches are available in various models, each with its own set of features and specifications. For example, the 2216 and 2224 models are unmanaged, 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet over twisted pair switches, with 16 and 24 ports each, respectively. The 2324 model is similar to the 2224 but includes two Gigabit Ethernet ports for uplink or server purposes. The 2600 series includes the 2608, 2616, and 2624 models, which are un-managed Gigabit Ethernet workgroup switches with all ports at 10/100/1000 MBit/s. The 2624 model features an SFP port for fiber uplinks. The PowerConnect 2800 series, including the 2808, 2816, 2824, and 2848 models, are web-managed, Gigabit Ethernet switches designed for business networking. These models use 10/100/1000BASE-T ports on the front panel for connecting to a network and support auto-negotiation, duplex mode (Half or Full duplex), and flow control. The PowerConnect series also includes the W-series, a Wi-Fi platform, which offers a range of Aruba WiFi products. The PowerConnect-J (Juniper Networks) and B (Brocade) series are no longer sold, except for the B8000e/PCM8428-K full FCoE switches. The PowerConnect series runs on various operating systems, including a proprietary OS made by Marvell, an OS based on VxWorks, and DNOS (Dell Networking Operating System), which is based on a Linux kernel for DNOS 5.x and 6.x.Performance & Thermal
The performance and thermal characteristics of the Dell PowerConnect series are not publicly disclosed in the research material. However, the series is designed to provide reliable and efficient networking solutions for business computer networking. The PowerConnect 2800 series, for example, supports 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds and features SFP combo ports for linking additional equipment. The series also supports auto-negotiation, duplex mode (Half or Full duplex), and flow control, which can help to improve network performance and reduce errors.Market Positioning
The Dell PowerConnect series is positioned as a business computer networking solution, designed to connect computers and servers in small to medium-sized networks using Ethernet. The series is designed to provide reliable and efficient networking solutions, with various models and features to suit different business needs. The PowerConnect series is no longer sold under the PowerConnect brand, as Dell re-branded its networking portfolio to Dell Networking in 2013. However, the series is still supported by Dell, and users can find manuals and documentation for their PowerConnect products on the Dell website.Verdict
The Dell PowerConnect series is a discontinued line of network switches produced by Dell, designed for business computer networking. The series offers a range of models and features, including pre-configured web-managed models and more expensive managed models. While the performance and thermal characteristics of the PowerConnect series are not publicly disclosed, the series is designed to provide reliable and efficient networking solutions for business computer networking. The series is positioned as a business computer networking solution, with various models and features to suit different business needs. Overall, the Dell PowerConnect series is a reliable and efficient networking solution for business computer networking, with a range of models and features to suit different business needs. However, users should note that the series is no longer sold under the PowerConnect brand and is now supported under the Dell Networking brand.Specifications
| Maximum data transfer rate | 1 Gbit/s |
|---|---|
| 10G support | No |
| Number of ports | 16, 24, 48 |
| Port speed | 10/100/1000 Mbps |
| Operating System | Proprietary OS made by Marvell, OS based on VxWorks, DNOS (Dell Networking Operating System) |
| SFP combo ports | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dell PowerConnect series?
The Dell PowerConnect series is a discontinued line of network switches produced by Dell, designed for business computer networking.
What models are available in the PowerConnect series?
The PowerConnect series includes various models, such as the 2200, 2300, 2600, and 2700 series, as well as the W-series, a Wi-Fi platform.
What is the maximum data transfer rate of the PowerConnect series?
The maximum data transfer rate of the PowerConnect series is 1 Gbit/s.
Does the PowerConnect series support 10G?
No, the PowerConnect series does not support 10G.
What is the operating system used by the PowerConnect series?
The PowerConnect series uses various operating systems, including a proprietary OS made by Marvell, an OS based on VxWorks, and DNOS (Dell Networking Operating System).