Banyan Vines version | Intel PRO/100 specs

Windows 3.x/MS-DOS Installation 4-5

Banyan VINES version 5.5

NDIS 2.0 Driver

Prior to installing the Banyan Vines client software, it is necessary to determine the Interrupt Number for the PRO/100 PC Card. After you have installed the Adapter, follow these steps to determine the Interrupt Number:

1Insert Intel Disk 2, Network Drivers Disk in the floppy drive.

2 At the DOS prompt, enter

M16BTEST.EXE

3Press Enter.

4When the Main Menu opens, run Test.

The IRQ number will be displayed when the Test is complete.

5Write down the IRQ number to use when you proceed with the installation.

For example, if the IRQ=6, write down the number 6. Now continue with the Banyan Vines installation as follows:

1In Windows 3.x run the Intel Installation Program from Intel Disk 1. Installation Disk, as described at the beginning of this chapter.

2Choose Banyan VINES from the Select Network Operating System screen.

3Follow the prompts to complete the Intel segment of the installa- tion. The Installation Program also creates a \VINES directory on your hard disk.

4Copy the files from the VINES Master disk into the VINES directory.

5Copy the PROTOCOL.INI file from the \NDIS directory on Intel Disk 2. Network Drivers Disk into the VINES directory.

6Change to the VINES directory.

7Type PCCONFIG and select Network Card Settings, followed by NDIS Ethernet.

8Enter the IRQ value you wrote down in step 5 of the M16BTEST procedure described above.

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.