D-Link DFE-500TX manual Introduction, About Fast Ethernet

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Introduction

Thank you for choosing D-Link DFE-500TX, the value leader among Fast Ethernet adapters for PCI−Bus personal computers. This Introduction chapter will be useful if you are new to Fast Ethernet and other new technology featured by the DFE-500TX. Otherwise, skip ahead to the Installation chapter.

About Fast Ethernet

Fast Ethernet is a network technology specified by IEEE Standard 802.3. It extends the traditional 10Mbps Ethernet technology to achieve 100Mbps transmission and reception, while retaining the same CSMA/CA Ethernet protocol. Thus while Fast Ethernet provides a tenfold increase in network capacity, it is wholly compatible with traditional 10Mbps Ethernet network facilities. This compatibility is the key to easy and efficient upgrades to 100Mbps in your network areas needing greater bandwidth. Upgrading selected areas to Fast Ethernet does not require hardware or software changes in network areas where traditional 10Mbps Ethernet is providing good service. For upgrading existing Ethernet installations to 100Mbps, and especially for selectively upgrading areas needing upgrade, Fast Ethernet is the clear choice in terms of cost-effectiveness, as well as convenience and smoothness in transition.

Fast Ethernet comprises two subtypes: 100Base-T4 and 100Base-TX. 100Base-T4 Fast Ethernet can utilize existing Category 3 or Category 4 UTP network cabling, but does not provide for full duplex operation. 100Base-TX requires Category 5 cabling, but does provide full duplex operation. Full duplex 100Base-TX operation allows simultaneous transmission and reception, both at 100Mbps, thus providing service potentially equal to 200Mbps half-duplex service.