Importance

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Abstract

A multiple segment network device configured for a stacked arrangement via a common backplane. The device is a repeater that includes a first repeater segment, a second repeater segment and a switch device disposed between the first and second repeater segments that enables communication therebetween within a single logical network domain. The device further includes a backplane connector coupled to the second repeater segment to enable extension of the second repeater segment to a common backplane with external devices while maintaining a single repeater domain. The first repeater segment operates at a first transmission rate and the second repeater segment operates at a second transmission rate. The switch device may be a learning bridge that filters information between the first and second repeater segments. The common backplane enables two or more repeaters to be coupled within the same logical network domain or LAN. The backplane couples each second segment of each repeater into the same repeater or collision domain, and allows nodes coupled through any of the first repeater segments to communicate via the backplane.

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First Claim