Switch question

[routermatrix]

As far as I know, the Current Switching exam is based on the 2950 model
line and up.  Those switches you have are not worthless, but many command
options and features are not going to be there - I have one also.  Hear is an
example:

Switch(config)#spanning-tree ?
  forward-time  Set a Spanning Tree FORWARD Interval
  hello-time    Set a Spanning Tree HELLO Interval
  max-age      Set a Spanning Tree MAX AGE Interval
  priority      Set a Spanning Tree Priority
  protocol      Spanning tree protocol type
  uplinkfast    Enable UplinkFast Feature
  vlan          VLAN Switch Spanning Trees
  <cr>

Switch(config)#end
Switch#show ver | inc IOS
IOS ™ C2900XL Software (C2900XL-C3H2S-M), Version 12.0(5.2)XU, MAINTENANCE INTERIM SOFTWARE
Switch#

So, this switch can run PVST+ and enhancements, but not rapid spanning tree or multiple spanning tree,
which are part of the exam content. 

The 2950's and 3550's are not too costly theses days (used), as Cisco his pushing the newer models.
GNS3 is another options - you can add 16 port ESW switching modules to routers (that support such
cards) like 2600 or 3700s, for instance.  The ESW modules are stripped down, but do provide more CCNP
features than the XLs.  Another nice thing GNS3 is you can plop down as many devices as you want given
the power limits of the host machine. 

Good Luck with it.