3Com 3C985B-SX, 3C986-T Installing the Software in NetWare, NetWare Pre-Installation Requirements

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2 Installing the NIC Software

Installing the Software in NetWare

This section describes how to perform the following tasks:

Verify that the required OS support files are installed on the server and the NetWare pre-installation parameters are correctly set.

Install the driver software in the Novell NetWare environment.

Network administrators can use more than one method to install device drivers on a NetWare server. This section does not attempt to provide detailed installation instructions for each method. Several commonly used methods to install a driver on a NetWare server are listed in the 3Com Gigabit EtherLink Server NIC User’s Guide for Novell NetWare, with brief descriptions of the advantages and drawbacks of using each method.

NOTE: If you are installing NetWare 5.1 for the first time on the server, NetWare uses the nwconfig program to install the NIC driver during the installation of the operating system.

During the installation process, Novell’s Internetworking Configuration (inetcfg.nlm) program requires you to bind a protocol to the driver.

NetWare Pre-Installation Requirements

Before you can use the NIC in your Novell NetWare system, a network device driver must be installed.

First, make sure that the NIC is physically installed in your system. Typically, NetWare OS software must already be running on the server. Make sure that your server meets the hardware and operating system software requirements described in the following table.

Install the latest support pack files to ensure that the NIC functions correctly. The support pack or patch file(s) needed for the operating system running on your server are indicated below:

NetWare OS

File Name

File(s) to be Installed

 

 

 

5.1

NetWare 5.1 Support Pack 1

NW51SP1.EXE (or latest file)

 

(or the latest support pack)

 

4.2

Support Pack 9

NW4SP9.EXE (or latest file)

 

(or the latest support pack)

 

 

 

 

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Contents Installation User Guide 3Com Corporation 5400 Bayfront Plaza Santa Clara, California Contents Installing DynamicAccess Software Preface About This GuideOther Important Documentation Contacting 3Com Online Technical Services 3Com Knowledgebase Web ServicesWorld Wide Web Site 3Com FTP Site3Com Bulletin Board Service Access by Analog ModemAccess by Digital Modem 3Com Facts Automated Fax ServiceSupport from Your Network Supplier Support from 3ComCountry Region Telephone Number Asia Pacific Rim EuropeEurope, South Africa, and Middle East Country Region Telephone Number Latin America North AmericaReturning Products for Repair Country Region Telephone Number Fax NumberPage Installing the NIC System RequirementsSystem Requirements Windows NT WindowsImportant Components System Requirements Novell NetwareSafety Precautions Pre-Installation ChecklistNIC Installation Remove the system cover, and select any empty PCI slotConnecting the Network Cables 1000Base-SX Fiber NICPrepare an appropriate cable Medium Diameter Frequency Cable Type Operating RangePort Type Connector Media Maximum Distance 10/100/1000Base-T NICInstalling the NIC Software Installing the Software in Windows NTInstalling the NIC Software Installing the Software in Windows Modifying Configuration Parameters Adapter Windows NT 4.0 onlyLink Negotiation Full Duplex Enabled Tx Flow ControlRx Flow Control Port Link SpeedInstalling the Software in NetWare NetWare Pre-Installation RequirementsNetWare OS File Name Files to be Installed Installing the NIC Driver for NetWare Installing the Driver NetWare Already InstalledLoad 3c986 slot=4 frame=Ethernet802.2 name=3c9861e822 Parameter Descriptions Installing the Driver Initial Installation of NetWare NIC Load Parameters DescriptionsNIC Configuration Parameters Description Installing the NIC Software NIC Configuration Parameters Parameter DescriptionConnectors Verifying NIC Functionality1000Base-SX NIC LEDs10/100/1000Base-T Port LED Activity Page Installing DynamicAccess Software About DynamicAccess SoftwareClick Install DynamicAccess Technology When prompted, click Yes Install DynamicAccess TechnologyFeature Specification SpecificationsSpecification Measurement Condition Operating Specification Storage SpecificationWarranty Software License Agreement 3Com Corporation Limited WarrantyWarranty and Software License Agreement FCC Class B Statement FCC Declaration of ConformityImportant Read Before Using This Product 3Com End User Software License AgreementProduct Registration

710011, 710026, 710025, 710024, 3C985B-SX specifications

3Com, a pioneer in networking technology, has introduced several notable network interface cards (NICs) geared towards enhancing network performance and connectivity. Among these products are the 3Com 710011, 3C986-T, 3C985B-SX, 710026, and 710024, each designed with unique features to cater to various networking needs.

The 3Com 710011 is a 10/100 PCI Ethernet card that offers a reliable connection for desktop computers and servers. It features auto-sensing technology that allows it to automatically detect and adjust to the speed of the network, whether it’s 10 Mbps or 100 Mbps. This flexibility is crucial for environments where network demands can fluctuate. Additionally, the card supports full-duplex communication, enabling simultaneous data transmission and reception, thereby enhancing efficiency and reducing latency.

Next, the 3C986-T is a Gigabit Ethernet PCI card that stands out for its impressive performance capabilities. It supports speeds of up to 1000 Mbps, making it an excellent choice for environments requiring high bandwidth, such as data centers and enterprise networks. The 3C986-T is equipped with advanced features such as Jumbo Frame support, which allows for the transmission of larger packets, thus improving throughput and reducing CPU load. Furthermore, it is compatible with various operating systems, ensuring broad usability across different network setups.

The 3C985B-SX is another high-performance card designed for fiber optic connections. It supports 1000Base-SX standards, offering reliable connectivity over multimode fiber cables. This NIC is ideal for applications demanding high speed and long-distance data transmission, with a reach of up to 550 meters depending on the fiber used. With its low latency and high data integrity, the 3C985B-SX is well-suited for businesses that prioritize performance and reliability in their networking infrastructure.

The 710026 and 710024 models are additional offerings from 3Com, featuring robust technology to support various networking applications. The 710026 is specifically designed for wireless networking needs, providing seamless connectivity to Wi-Fi networks while supporting advanced security protocols to safeguard data transmission. On the other hand, the 710024 is optimized for desktop users, providing a cost-effective solution for connecting to wired networks with reliable performance at 10/100 Mbps.

In summary, these NICs from 3Com, including the 710011, 3C986-T, 3C985B-SX, 710026, and 710024, exemplify the company’s commitment to delivering high-performance networking solutions. With features tailored for various applications, from Gigabit Ethernet support to wireless connectivity, these cards are essential for businesses looking to enhance their network efficiency and reliability.