3550 gigabit port

I just bought a 3550 switch. and seen the gigabit ports/slots and wonder what is the deal with the 2 ports? do you have to buy something that slides in to use them or what because i dont see any usalble port just two small empty slots.

You need to buy GBIC modules to go into the slots. The module you need depends on what you want to connect and the distance involved. Have a look here: www.cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/switches...ces_and_modules.html