2 Installing the NIC Software

NOTE: If you acquired the NIC software on floppy disk or from the 3Com website, enter the path to where the driver files reside on your system.

6In the Driver Files Search Results window, verify that the correct path to the driver software is shown, then click Next.

Once installation of the driver software has been completed, you are ready to configure NIC properties. For details, see the next section, “Modifying Configuration Parameters”

Modifying Configuration Parameters

This section describes the NIC configuration options in Windows NT 4.0 and Windows 2000.

Although the default values should be appropriate in most cases, you may change any of the available options to meet the requirements of your specific system. Ensure that the NIC Status and Configuration tab is shown in the foreground of the Driver Properties window (click the tab if necessary).

The following options should be displayed:

Adapter (Windows NT 4.0 only)

This field identifies which 3Com Gigabit Etherlink Server NIC is being configured. In a Windows NT 4.0 system with multiple 3Com Gigabit Etherlink Server NICs, select this field to access a pull-down list of the available NICs and teams. Each 3Com Gigabit Etherlink Server NIC installed in the system is labeled with a unique instance number. Typically, the first NIC detected is instance 1, the next is instance 2, and so on.

Link Negotiation

When checked (default), 802.3-1999 compliant Gigabit Ethernet link negotiation is enabled. All 3Com Gigabit EtherLink Server NICs use link negotiation by default.

When unchecked, link negotiation is disabled and only link signal detection is used. Use this setting when connecting to Ethernet equipment that does not support link negotiation, or if there is a problem establishing a link between the NIC and the connecting device. Unless otherwise specified, the default signaling speed for the Base-SX NIC and the 10/100/1000Base-T NIC is 1Gbps.

When link negotiation is disabled, be sure that the connecting device uses the same duplex and speed settings.

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3Com 710024, 3C985B-SX, 3C986-T, 710026 Modifying Configuration Parameters, Adapter Windows NT 4.0 only, Link Negotiation

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.