Question : Fast Ethernet Topology Limitations

I have a little experience with ethernet LANs. I usually adhere to the 5-4-3 rule when expanding my LANs. However, what are the limiting factors when cascading fast ethernet switches? Can the total length of Cat 5 ever excede 400 meters between any two nodes? I'm looking for guidelines / specs. I've been searching the internet and I seem to find conflicting opinions. Any general guidlines will help. Perhaps I need to incorporate a bridge???

Answer : Fast Ethernet Topology Limitations

The max length was designaed for more reasons than just signal degradation.

Most newer equipment can discern a signal on lengths longer than those given.

The problem comes about when a collision occurs. It takes too long for the 'blocking' signal to travel the length of the wire and reach each device in the collision domain.  In this case, some devices may not know that the data it just sent was part of a collision.

Rare? yes, but it's still there.