3M's FDDI infrastructure design and deployment

Abstract

As current data communications backbone technology becomes outdated and unreliable, replacement technology must be investigated and installed. Fiber distributed data interface (FDDI) is such a replacement technology. The fundamental requirements of corporate network users are described, and how FDDI will address these needs is illustrated. The FDDI technology is discussed, in some detail, to aid network planners and administrators in equipment selection, network design, and implementation. Initial investment requirements, break-even analysis, and business needs are also discussed to justify the cost of managing and implementing a new infrastructure technology.<>