Importance

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Abstract

An adaptive networking device including a switch module having several ports and operable according to a first protocol and a repeater module also having several ports and operable according to a second protocol. The adaptive networking device preferably includes several connector ports for coupling to external data devices, such as computers, work stations, file servers, modems, printers, repeaters, switches, routers, hubs, concentrators, or the like, for establishing a networking system. Also, the adaptive networking device preferably includes an interface circuit for each connector port for detecting communication from a data device on the corresponding connector port and for coupling that data device to either the switch module or the repeater module. The interface circuit preferably senses the protocol of the communication and automatically couples the data device to the corresponding and compatible communication module. In a second embodiment, the adaptive networking device includes a converter coupled between the switch module and the repeater module for converting the protocols between the switch and repeater modules. In a more particular embodiment, the first and second protocols operate at first and second data rates, respectively.

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First Claim