You can use the copper ports to stack the 2 switches then they would act as one.   Whether you want to keep the switches in stand alone would depend on how you want your network to function.   Here is some information on how to stack the 35XX switches.   PowerConnect 3524   The PowerConnect 3524 provides 24 10/100Mbps ports plus two SFP ports, and two Copper ports which can be used to forward traffic in a stand-alone device, or as stacking ports when the device is stacked. The device also provides one RS-232 console port. The PowerConnect 3524 is a stackable device, but also operates as a stand-alone device.   The front panel contains 24 RJ-45 ports number 1-24. The upper row of ports is marked with odd numbers 1-23, and the lower row of ports is marked with even numbers 2-24. In addition, the front panel also contains ports G1 - G2 which are fiber ports and ports G3- G4 which are copper ports. Ports G3 - G4 can either be used as stacking ports, or used to forward network traffic in a stand-alone device.   35XX User guide:   [URL]      Stacking is discussed on page 12 and installation starts on page 44
Hello, I have just purchased two new PowerConnect 3548 switches. Each will be in its own building and connected to form a single (flat Layer 2) network via uplink. My question is, do I have configure anything on the switches (stacking???) or can I just connect one/two of the Gig Cooper ports between the two switches? I think that is all I have to do but I would like to verify so there are no surprises on the day we do the install.  Thanks
PowerConnect 3548 Uplinks