Wired Intelligent Edge

Hi All,

I need some assistance with adding a new switch with existing stacked switches. In the document below 

https://support.hpe.com/hpesc/public/docDisplay?docId=a00021311en_us&docLocale=en_US 

Page # 257, there are few steps for adding the new switch in the stack. 

In step 3, it is mentioned to Power On the switch and in step 4 it is mentioned to install the stacking module and stacking cable in the new switch (While keeping the new switch powered On).

I am confused here that we have to add stacking modules and stacking cables while keeping the switch powered On. Existing stacked should be powered On but would this new switch also be powered while adding stacking modules and cables ?

Because I worked with most of the switches and most of them recommended to power Off the switch and then add the stacking modules and cables. 

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@usmansa1 wrote: ...but would this new switch also be powered while adding stacking modules and cables ?

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Personally I would power off the new Switch, install the Stacking Module, power on the Switch (and directly via serial console or then via CLI do a brief check about the proper Stacking Module recognition)...once done...I will then connect this new Switch to the existing stack...since you already have connected the stacking cable(s) required for the addition of this new Switch, at stack side. Isn't it?

Hi mate,

I still didnt go for the stacking yet, but I prepared the procedure based on the documents and it is listed below. 

1) Power of the new switch 

2) Install the stacking module in the new switch 

3) Powered On the switch and then enable the stacking and save the configurations and check the status of the stacking module 

4) Connect the stacking cable with the existing stack 

5) Connect the stacking cable with the New switch 

What I expecting after that, is the switch will get the downgrading signal from existing commander switch and reboot and joined the stack. Now I am confused with point 4 and 5 (Connecting the cable with the new switch still in powered On condition). All I wana know that when we connect the cable with new switch, should it be in Powered On condition ?

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@usmansa1 wrote: All I wana know that when we connect the cable with new switch, should it be in Powered On condition ?

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IMHO Yes, it should (already powered on). Listen, once the stacking cable(s) is/are connected on the stack side...the only thing you need it to terminate it/them on the switch you want to add to the stack (with stacking enabled and the stacking module installed), this one can be already powered (it's OK) or you can power it (if it was powered off)...in any case if/once the switch is ready (has booted) once the stacking cable(s) is/are plugged it/they should be recognized and used by the stacking modules.

maybe this will help.....https://community.arubanetworks.com/t5/Wired-Intelligent-Edge-Campus/Backplane-Stacking-and-VSF-Best-Practices-for-ArubaOS-Switch/td-p/500559