SMC Networks Ethernet ISA Network Cards manual Chapter Hardware Description, LAN Connectors

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CHAPTER 1 HARDWARE DESCRIPTION

The SMC EZ Card 10 ISA models have two LED indicators and support from one to three types of network connections.

LAN Connectors

The EZ Card 10 ISA models support IEEE 802.3 10BASE-T, 10BASE2 and 10BASE5 standards. These cards also support one or more of the following network connections, depending upon the model chosen:

•RJ-45 connector for twisted-pair cable

•BNC connector for thin coax cable

•AUI connector for thick coax cable

The cards include signal transceivers that interface with twisted- pair and thin coax connections. On the 2-port combo model, the media type in use is automatically detected by the driver.

LED Indicators

The cards contain two LEDs for monitoring network conditions. The function of each LED is described on the next page. Refer to Figure 1-1 for the LED location.

1-1

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Contents EZ Card User Guide For SMC’s EZ Card ISA Network Card Trademarks Order Number Description About this GuideEZ Card 10 ISA Models Package Contents Configuring the Card Installing the CardQuick Start Program Menu Vii Viii Software Installation NetWare Client Operating SystemSoftware Installation Screen Other Operating Systems Including Windows95 and NTQuick Start Table of Contents Specifications Glossary Index Limited Warranty CompliancesList of Figures List of TablesLAN Connectors Chapter Hardware DescriptionLink Status Lnk Activity Status ACTChapter Hardware Settings Default SetupManual Setup Manual Setup Plug and Play EnvironmentChanging the Settings Medium TypeFull Duplex Base Address Jumperless Environment onlyInterrupt Jumperless Environment only Boot ROMCommonly Used IRQ Channels Commonly Used Memory Addresses Appendix a Diagnostics Figure A-1. Main MenuFigure A-2. On-Board Diagnostics Diagnose the CardNetwork Diagnostics Figure A-3. Eeprom TestFigure A-5. On-Network Diagnostics Initiator Screen Appendix B Troubleshooting Clean BootProblems and Solutions SymptomsPossible Cause SuggestionsSymptom Possible CausesRJ-45 Connector Table C-1. RJ-45 Connector Pin AssignmentsAppendix C PIN Assignments Pin Number AssignmentAUI Connector Table C.2. AUI Connector Pin AssignmentsAppendix D Specifications GeneralEMC/Safety Compliance Operating TemperaturePower Requirements Operating EnvironmentNetwork Drivers Appendix E Glossary Boot ROMAUI Attachment Unit Interface Broadcast CollisionDriver FrameNetWare RJ-45 ConnectorUnshielded Twisted-Pair Cable UTP Index Index Limited Warranty Limited Warranty FCC Class B CompliancesCdoc Class B EC Conformity Vcci Class B Australia AS/NZS 3548Printed on recycled paper

Ethernet ISA Network Cards specifications

SMC Networks, known for its innovative networking solutions, produced Ethernet ISA network cards that made significant contributions to the realm of computer networking during the late 20th century. These cards represented a pivotal development in the transition from traditional networking to more modern, high-speed connections, catering to the needs of both businesses and home users.

One of the main features of SMC Networks Ethernet ISA network cards was their ability to provide a reliable wired connection using the Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus. This interface facilitated an easy installation process on compatible devices, ensuring plug-and-play capabilities and broad compatibility with various operating systems available at the time, such as DOS and early versions of Windows. Users appreciated the straightforward setup process, which allowed even less technical individuals to integrate networking functions into their computers seamlessly.

SMC's Ethernet ISA network cards typically supported a data transmission rate of 10 Mbps, which was the standard speed for Ethernet technology during their prime. This speed, while modest by today’s standards, represented a significant improvement over older serial and parallel communication methods, allowing for faster file transfers and improved networking capabilities among connected devices.

The cards also featured an onboard 12-pin connector for attaching an external transceiver, supporting twisted pair cabling and coaxial connections. This versatility allowed users to choose their preferred cabling solutions based on their specific network environment. Furthermore, the Ethernet ISA cards supported the CSMA/CD protocol, which effectively managed data collisions in a shared network environment, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of data transmission.

Durability and robust design characterized SMC Networks’ approach to network card manufacturing. The cards were built to withstand the demands of various operating environments, ensuring stable performance over extended periods. Additionally, the compatibility with several popular networking protocols made these cards suitable for a broad range of applications, from simple peer-to-peer networks to more complex enterprise systems.

Overall, SMC Networks Ethernet ISA network cards played a crucial role in evolving networking technologies. Their reliable performance, ease of installation, and compatibility made them a valuable asset for organizations and individuals looking to harness the power of computer networking effectively. As technology advanced, these cards paved the way for the development of faster and more sophisticated networking solutions that we rely on today.