New Network Switch
For many years in the house network I have used a D-Link DGS-2205. Dependable, reliable, functional.
For some years I have had a cheap and generic TP-Link 5-port network switch in the house network. I bought the switch in an emergency. The switch has a beveled design and glossy finish. There is only a single LED on the top of the switch to indicate the power status. Apparently looks are more important than function. While an argument can be offered that a network switch either functions or does not, the design reeks of being cheap to maximize profits.
I replaced the switch with a D-Link DGS-2208.
The physical Ethernet ports are located in the rear rather than the front. In a house network that location is more aesthetic over fast access that might be desired in the enterprise.
Unlike the cheap TP-Link switch, there are individual LED indicators for each connector. Like the D-Link DGS-2205, the new switch supports dual colored LEDs to indicate 10/100 Mbps (amber) or 1 Gbps (green). There is a “boot sequence.” The LEDs are located on a front-facing edge rather than the top of the device. When LEDs are on the top they cannot be seen when the device is on a shelf.
This the way a switch should be designed.
The TP-Link switch has been relegated to the spare parts and junk box collection, useful now only for another emergency.
Posted: Category: Usability Tagged: General
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