Nationals 2008 

Schedule(Tentative)

Friday Awards 6 PM 

Equipment to be used:

Cisco 871, 1800,1700 and 2522 as  Frame Switches

images:  c1841-advipservicesk9-mz.124-10a.bin   c3500xl-c3h2s-mz.120-5.WC11.bin 

Cisco 3548xl,  1900 switches

Linksys WRT300N 

LinkRunner will be used during cable troubleshooting. 

You will need a Cat 5 punchdown tool as well as Cat5E termination Kit.

Your Laptop needs to have a wireless connection as well as Ethernet 

Professionalism  

Contestants will be judged on answering a service call via the telephone, as if working at the TAC.

SkillsUSA now requires a one page printed resume be brought to the orientation meeting, June 26th. You are still required to email your resumes to bschoenh@cisco.com before June 8th, 2007. 

This year we will also require a cover letter addressing one of three possible jobs you would apply. More information will be posted in May.

FAQ

Can I use a subnet calculator during the contest?

No not during the end to end, online exams, or router configuration, but it may be used during the evenings for research.

Do I have to have a printed copy of my resume at the orientation?

Yes,  that is a SkillsUSA requirement so it will be part of your professionalism. 

How do you install SDM?

Here is a link that will help you with SDM.

You will need a wireless connection as well as a regular rj45 Ethernet connect. You will need to have a running installation of Cisco SDM software. An as always a way for you to connect into the console of the Cisco routers and switches.

Do I need any other software like Visio?

No you only need and OS and a hyperterm type program.  A browser is also recommended.  You might want to have some form of spreadsheet and composition software to put together an RTP though.

Can you use a router simulator during the contest? Is it OK to have on the laptop as long as I don't use it?

No you cannot use a router simulator during the contest. If the simulator is open during the contest you could be disqualified. BUT IT COULD BE USED IN THE EVENING FOR PRACTICE OR DESIGN PURPOSES.

Do I have to give a presentation on Wednesday morning? 

No it will be the technical committee giving demonstrations of network items.

Do I need to know how to configure an Atlas 550?   

No

Do I have to know how to wire a patch panel and configure a MDF/IDF?  

Yes, but you will not be asked to construct one. You will have to make Rollover, Patch, and Crossover cables.

Where can you find DB-9 to RJ45 adapters for Ciscorouters?  

Due to the modern laptops having USB serial ports be sure to obtain an adaptor to connect to the console port. Be sure this works before you get to KC.. 

Do I have to bring a router and a switch?   

No, please click on the link (Contest Standards) to see what you are expected to bring.

Will I need to know password recovery for a 1841  and 3500 series switch ? 

Yes, one of the reasons we post the equipment you will be using is so you can research those products.

How are we scored?  

The scoring is based on the criteria listed in the standards document. You want to try to get the most points you can at any given activity.  Just because you felt like you did poorly in one area does not put you out of the run for the medals.

Will I be able to use a calculator?  

Yes and No.  Yes you will be able to use it on the Design part of the contest.  No you will not be able to use one during the rest of the contest.

Facts    

• Be sure that you know how to use the tools and equipment that you are required to bring. It seems that there are a few contestants every year who are unfamiliar with their tools or do not know how to use them.
• Make sure that the tools and equipment are working properly before your competition. Don’t wait until the day of the contest to find out that you forgot to bring something that is needed for the contest.
• Strongly recommended to bring your cable testers !
• No configuration editors such as ConfigMaker may be used during the Contest.
• Be sure you know how to adjust network settings in Windows 98,2000,NT and XP.
• Take advantage of the contestant meeting. Prepare your questions in advance of the meeting so that you don’t forget to ask them.
• Be prepared for a challenging competition. Your stamina will be tested. Network administrators are required to work long and unusual hours to keep the systems operable.