Power-Saving Modes, Windows 95 Troubleshooting

Windows 95 Installation 2-9

These utilities are automatically copied to your hard drive during installa- tion under Windows 95, and icons for the utilities are installed in a Windows program group at the time of installation. See Chapter 5. Utilities and Applications for additional information.

Power-Saving Modes

The PRO/100 PC Card has two power-saving modes to reduce adapter power consumption under certain conditions: Network-only mode and Modem-only mode (Network & Modem is the default).

Network-only mode disables the modem function on the adapter. This mode should only be used when the modem will not be needed. Modem- only mode disables the network function on the adapter. It should only be used when the network will not be needed. When the Intel adapter is set to either Network-only or Modem-only mode, it remains in that mode until re-configured to a different mode.

To specify a power-saving mode under Windows 95, select Network from Control Panel, select the Configuration tab, select Intel EtherExpress PRO/100 LAN+Modem PC Card and click Properties, select the Advanced tab, and select a mode in the Function(s) property (Network & Modem is the default).

Windows 95 Troubleshooting

Quick Troubleshooting (Device Conflicts)

1To review the adapter configuration, right-click the My Computer icon and select Properties.

2Select the Device Manager tab.

3Proceed according to your version of Windows 95 (see the begin- ning of this chapter for information):

•For Windows 95 (Retail Version), expand the item Multifunction Adapters.

PRO/100 specifications

The Intel PRO/100 network adapter series, introduced in the mid-1990s, revolutionized networking by providing robust performance and reliability for both desktop and server environments. These adapters were pivotal in enabling fast Ethernet connectivity, helping to establish standards that would be instrumental in the advancement of network technology.

One of the primary features of the Intel PRO/100 series is its support for 10/100 Mbps Ethernet speeds. This dual-speed capability allowed organizations to transition seamlessly from older 10 Mbps networks to faster 100 Mbps connections without the need for a complete hardware overhaul. This adaptability made the PRO/100 cards a flexible choice for various network architectures.

Another significant characteristic of the Intel PRO/100 is its use of advanced bus mastering technology. This feature enhances data throughput by allowing the network adapter to take control of the system's bus when transmitting data. By doing so, it minimizes CPU overhead, which results in better overall system performance and efficient network communication. This was particularly beneficial in environments where network traffic was heavy, allowing the processors to handle other tasks without being bogged down.

The Intel PRO/100 series was also incorporated with Intel’s Plug and Play technology. This innovation simplified the installation process, automatically detecting the hardware and configuring it to work with existing system resources. As a result, system administrators could save time and reduce errors during setup, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to streamline their IT operations.

In terms of compatibility, the PRO/100 adapters supported a variety of network operating systems, including Windows NT, Linux, and Novell NetWare, providing users with a versatile solution for integrating into existing infrastructures. Furthermore, the cards were designed with high-quality, durable components to ensure longevity and reliability even in demanding environments.

Intel also emphasized the importance of network security and management with these adapters. The PRO/100 series featured capabilities for diagnostics and performance monitoring, allowing administrators to quickly identify and resolve network issues. Advanced features like Wake-on-LAN (WoL) provided additional functionality, enabling remote management and maintenance.

In conclusion, the Intel PRO/100 network adapter series represented a significant leap in networking technology during its time. With features such as dual-speed functionality, bus mastering, Plug and Play installation, and extensive compatibility, it laid the foundation for future innovations in network communication, solidifying Intel's reputation as a leader in networking solutions. Whether for small businesses or large enterprises, the PRO/100 series offered the reliability and performance critical to maintaining efficient and effective network operations.