How to add or change a Stack Member number on a PowerConnect 3500 Series Switch

The PowerConnect 3500 series switch has the ability to act in either standalone or stacked mode.  This article includes the directions for changing modes as well as changing the stack member number if needed.

The default configuration of a PowerConnect 3500 series switch is in standalone mode.  Adding or changing a PowerConnect 3500 series switch into stacking mode, the user needs to push the "mode" button on the front panel of the switch when the switch powers on.  This setting is persistent through power cycling and will not need to be repeated on subsequent power cycling.

If the switch is in standalone mode, the Gigabit ports will operate in Ethernet mode.  If the switch is in stacking mode, those ports will only operate in stacking mode.  Utilizing one Gigabit port for stacking and one for Ethernet is not supported.

To change switch mode or member unit ID:
 

1. When powering up, the configured unit LED number (corresponding to the previously saved unit ID) will begin to flash. The LED will flash for approximately 15 seconds. During this period, you can set the Stack ID by pressing the Stack ID button until the appropriate Stack ID LED is illuminated.

2. When LED 8 is flashing, pressing the Stack ID button results in the device being configured as a standalone. Pressing the Stack ID button again advances the Stack ID to 1. Unit 1 and Unit 2 are primary-enabled units; refer to the User Guide for information about the primary switch selection process.
3. End selection process — The unit ID selection process is completed when the 15-second selection period expires. The Stack ID button becomes unresponsive and the unit ID is set to the LED ID flashing at the end of the period.

For more information about setting up this switch, see the Getting Started Guide.