3Com TokenLink VelocityTM XL PCI Network Interface Card Using the Diagnostic Program, Timer Test

6-2CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING

Using the Diagnostic Program

You can troubleshoot the 3C359 NIC configuration and test for physical board problems by running the DOS Configuration and Diagnostic Program.

Configuration instructions are described in Appendix B.

The diagnostic part of the program tests the 3C359 NIC, not the network. However, a lobe cable must be connected from the 3C359 NIC to a retiming concentrator or

MAU for all tests. A lobe cable is the section of cable that attaches a ring station or network device to a MAU or wiring hub.

The diagnostic program does not function properly if the 3C359 NIC drivers are already installed and running in memory. You must bypass the drivers by performing a clean DOS boot before you run the diagnostic program. Use a DOS diskette if you are running a version of DOS earlier than DOS 6.x.

DOS Diagnostic Tests

The diagnostics test physical components, connectors, and circuitry of the 3C359 NIC, as follows.

Register Write/Read Test

This test verifies accurate writing and reading of the 3C359 NIC’s control registers.

Local RAM Write/Read Test

This test verifies that the PC can correctly access the total 64 KB of available local RAM.

Timer Test

This test verifies the 3C359 NIC’s timer operations by comparing the 3C359 NIC’s timers to the PC’s timer.