Connecting the Network Cable

DFE-500FX Fast Ethernet Adapter, with Fiber Optic Interface, for PCI Bus

3.Install the bracket screw which secures the card to the computer chassis.

4.Replace the computer’s chassis cover.

5.Reconnect the computer’s power cord, and switch computer power on. If the BIOS section of your computer’s boot program is Plug-and-Play compliant, then at power-up the BIOS will automatically configure any newly installed DFE-500FX adapter.

NOTE: Due to a fault in some Plug-n-Play BIOS programs, it happens occasionally that a newly installed adapter is assigned an Interrupt Number which is already assigned to another device. In such a case, the conflict of Interrupt Number will cause faults in the behavior of both devices. Then it is necessary to run the CMOS Setup utility, and manually assign a non-conflicting Interrupt Number.

Multimode (62.5/125μm or 50/125μm) fiber cabling with an IEEE recommended SC connector is required for the adapter. Use either one duplex SC connector, or two simplex SC connectors, and observe the correct relationship between the receive (Rx) and transmit (Tx) ports on the adapter and repeater. If there is a need to monitor the adapter’s faceplate LEDs, make the rear of the PC or workstation accessible and leave sufficient clearance for cabling and service. The maximum length of fiber cable between any station and its supporting hub is 2,000 meters at full-duplex and 412 meters at half- duplex.

Installation

DFE-500FX specifications

The D-Link DFE-500FX is a well-regarded networking card that caters to users seeking a reliable and efficient solution for connecting their computers to high-speed networks. Aimed at professional environments, this Fast Ethernet card delivers robust performance and is particularly suited for network-intensive applications.

At the heart of the DFE-500FX is its ability to support Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) and Fast Ethernet standards, specifically 100Base-FX. This allows for high-speed data transfer over fiber-optic cables, reaching speeds of up to 100 Mbps. The use of fiber optics not only enhances speed but also offers significant advantages in terms of distance and interference resistance, making it ideal for setups requiring long cable runs and improved network reliability.

One of the core features of the DFE-500FX is its use of a PCI interface for seamless integration into a variety of desktop systems. The card supports plug-and-play functionality, making the installation process straightforward and user-friendly. This is particularly important in enterprise environments where minimizing downtime during upgrades is crucial.

The DFE-500FX also boasts advanced technologies such as Auto-Negotiation and Link Integrity Test, which help optimize the connection by automatically negotiating the best speed and duplex mode with the networking device it is connected to. The card's ability to perform self-diagnosis through Link Integrity ensures that network maintenance and troubleshooting are straightforward.

In addition, the card is designed for versatility, supporting a range of operating systems, including various versions of Windows and Linux. This makes it suitable for diverse environments and enhances its attractiveness for system integrators.

Security features are integral to the DFE-500FX, which includes support for VLAN tagging, allowing for segmentation of networks for enhanced security and performance. This capability is especially beneficial in large organizational setups where managing data traffic effectively is paramount.

With its combination of speed, reliability, and enhanced features, the D-Link DFE-500FX stands out as a dependable choice for users looking to upgrade their network capabilities. Its effective design and robust technology ensure that it meets the demands of modern networking tasks, making it a valuable asset for any organization focusing on high-performance and secure connectivity options.