For each cable segment there is assigned a unique network number. For cables going through repeaters, hubs, and Farallon StarControllers, each radial has that same network number as the above devices will forward each packet indiscriminately.
A node is a device on each network segment. (Example, Macs, PCs, Laser Printers, File Servers,...) In the case of a router, the router will register one node per network segment entering the router. Nodes are also numbered although the numbering is dynamic and transparant to the end user.
A socket is a single program/driver that has registered itself with each node. A node may have one or more sockets. (Example, AppleShare file server, registration of open applications, QuickMail client, SNMP agent, print queues,...) Sockets are also numbered although the numbering is dynamic and transparant to the end user.
Zone names are usually linked to network numbers except for the following. Zone names do not have to be unique, this means that one zone name can represent several network numbers. On EtherTalk Phase 2 this one ethernet cable can have multiple Zone names.
On each cable segment there needs to be at least one router set to Seed-Force on the segment. (Preferably more than one for redundant backup.) If there exists a seed router on the common segment, then the MultiPort/LT can be set to Non-Seed for that port. You may also set it to Seed-Force so long as network number and zone name are identical.
The MultiPort will attempt to register itself at the following locations in order of preference: EtherTalk Phase 2 Default Zone, Phase 1, LocalTalk 3...0
If any of the items are left unfilled when a port is set to Seed-Force, MPM will not save until those items have been filled.
The most common cause of this is the MultiPort/LT was originally configured from an ethernet connected Mac, and that ethernet does not have any other AppleTalk routers on it. Also the Ethernet was still left in Non-Seed state. Factory seed (the state the MultiPort is when it comes out of the box) will attempt to come on-line in a non-seed state. If there are no other routers responding then some basic seed information is broadcast so the Ethernet Mac may find it. How to fix: With MGTalk (or other terminal software set for 9600-N-8-1) and console cable connected to console port and Mac, power cycle MultiPort/LT and type the following:
LT> config fact LT> config save LT> config useAnd disconnect console cable and power cycle MultiPort and it will start up in factory seed.