2 Conﬁguring Driver Parameters | Sun Microsystems SunSwiftTM

3.6.2 Conﬁguring Driver Parameters

The hme device driver, which is loaded from the CD-ROM, controls the SUNW,hme Ethernet device. The device driver automatically selects the link speed using the auto-negotiation protocol with the link partner. (See Section 3.6.5, “Auto-Negotiation.”)

You can manually conﬁgure the hme device driver parameters to customize each SUNW,hme device in your system in one of three ways:

•Conﬁgure the hme driver parameters generally for all devices in the system by entering the parameter variables in the /etc/system ﬁle.

•Set a parameter on a per-device basis by creating the hme.conf ﬁle in the

/kernel/drv directory.

•Use the ndd utility to temporarily change a parameter. This change is lost when you reboot the system.

3.6.3Increasing 100BASE-T Performance

The 100BASE-T performance of the SunSwift SBus Adapter can be increased by changing the TCP hiwater marks to 64K. This can be done with the ndd utility as follows.

1.As superuser type:

#ndd -set /dev/tcp tcp_xmit_hiwat 65535

#ndd -set /dev/tcp tcp_recv_hiwat 65535

#ndd -set /dev/tcp tcp_cwnd_max 65534

The changes will take effect immediately.

Installing SunSwift SBus Adapter Software On Solaris 2.4 and 2.5 Systems

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SunSwiftTM specifications

Sun Microsystems introduced the SunSwiftTM, a series of advanced networking interfaces and I/O technology designed to enhance the performance of their workstations and servers. SunSwift interfaces were built to address the increasing demand for high-speed data transfer and connectivity in enterprise environments. The architecture was characterized by a focus on achieving higher bandwidth, lower latency, and improved reliability.

One of the main features of SunSwift is its ability to support high-speed data communication through various Ethernet and token ring implementations. The SunSwift cards were designed to be compatible with multiple Sun systems, ensuring wide applicability across different server models. This compatibility allowed users to upgrade their network interfaces without needing to invest in new hardware, promoting cost efficiency and flexibility in network design.

Incorporating the latest advancements in technology, SunSwift leveraged technologies such as PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) to enhance data throughput capabilities. The use of PCI enabled the SunSwift to keep pace with the evolving standards of computing, allowing it to handle the demands of modern applications and workloads.

Another key characteristic of SunSwift is its support for network protocols essential for enterprise functionality, including TCP/IP, which provided a robust framework for network communication. The interface achieved high-performance levels while maintaining compatibility with various operating systems, thereby simplifying network management and deployment.

The reliability of SunSwift was further evidenced through advanced error detection and correction mechanisms. This focus on quality ensured that data integrity was preserved, reducing the chances of packet loss during transmission. Additionally, Sun Microsystems incorporated features that facilitated ease of use, such as simple installation processes that required minimal configuration, making SunSwift accessible even to users with limited technical expertise.

Overall, SunSwift represented a significant advancement in network interface technology during its era, showcasing Sun Microsystems' commitment to delivering high-performance solutions that cater to the demands of enterprise networking. Its blend of speed, reliability, and compatibility made it a valuable asset for organizations seeking to enhance their networking infrastructure and support their growing data communication needs. With its innovative features and robust technology, SunSwift played a crucial role in the evolution of networking capabilities within the Sun Microsystems product lineup.