SMC Networks Ethernet ISA Network Cards manual NetWare, RJ-45 Connector

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GLOSSARY

NetWare

Novell's Network Operating System, which provides the ability to transparently share services across dissimilar platforms. Uses the NetWare Core Protocol (NCP), Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX), and Sequential Packet Exchange (SPX) proto- cols.

RJ-45 Connector

Most common terminator for twisted-pair cable.

TCP/IP

Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol. Protocol suite developed by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA); includes TCP as the primary transport protocol and IP as the network layer protocol.

Unshielded Twisted-Pair Cable (UTP)

Cable composed of insulated wires twisted together to reduce electrical interference.

E-3

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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 NetWare Client Operating System Software InstallationOther Operating Systems Including Windows95 and NT Software Installation ScreenQuick Start Table of Contents Glossary Index Limited Warranty Compliances SpecificationsList of Tables List of FiguresChapter Hardware Description LAN ConnectorsActivity Status ACT Link Status LnkDefault Setup Chapter Hardware SettingsManual Setup Plug and Play Environment Manual SetupMedium Type Changing the SettingsFull Duplex Base Address Jumperless Environment onlyInterrupt Jumperless Environment only Boot ROMCommonly Used IRQ Channels Commonly Used Memory Addresses Figure A-1. Main Menu Appendix a DiagnosticsDiagnose the Card Figure A-2. On-Board DiagnosticsFigure A-3. Eeprom Test Network DiagnosticsFigure A-5. On-Network Diagnostics Initiator Screen Clean Boot Appendix B TroubleshootingSymptoms Problems and SolutionsPossible Cause SuggestionsPossible Causes SymptomTable C-1. RJ-45 Connector Pin Assignments RJ-45 ConnectorAppendix C PIN Assignments Pin Number AssignmentTable C.2. AUI Connector Pin Assignments AUI ConnectorGeneral Appendix D SpecificationsOperating Temperature EMC/Safety CompliancePower Requirements Operating EnvironmentNetwork Drivers Appendix E Glossary Boot ROMAUI Attachment Unit Interface Collision BroadcastDriver FrameNetWare RJ-45 ConnectorUnshielded Twisted-Pair Cable UTP Index Index Limited Warranty Limited Warranty FCC Class B CompliancesCdoc Class B Vcci Class B Australia AS/NZS 3548 EC ConformityPrinted 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.