EtherFast® 10/100 LAN Cards

Introduction

The Linksys EtherFast 10/100 LAN Card

Fast Ethernet is a relatively new standard of networking built specifically for speed-intensive network applications like video-conferencing, multimedia development, imaging, and complex databases. Capable of sending and receiving data at 100 megabits-per-secondover 4 wires in half duplex mode, and 200Mbps in full duplex, Fast Ethernet technology is at least 10 times faster than traditional 10BaseT networks.

Built to run with the fastest network applications, the EtherFast 10/100 LAN Card is a high performance network adapter for desktop computers with 32- bit PCI expansion slots. Boasting an incredible maximum data throughput of 200 megabits per second in full duplex mode (100Mbps in half duplex), the EtherFast is ready to run with both 10BaseT and 100BaseTX networks right out of the box – the card's 10/100 combo port automatically detects your net- work's maximum speed and adjusts itself accordingly.

The EtherFast 10/100 LAN Card from Linksys also features Wake-On-LAN event management. If your PCI motherboard has built-in WOL support, you’ll be able to utilize this unique management feature. You can remotely turn on any computer with a WOL network card to perform after-hours tasks or to access files. The ultimate in managed 10/100 networking is yours! If you don’t have WOL support on your motherboard or you have no need for it, don’t worry -- your EtherFast 10/100 LAN Card will operate normally any- way.

If your mission critical applications require blinding network speed, the EtherFast 10/100 LAN Card is the best value for your networking dollar.

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Boca Research manual Introduction, Linksys EtherFast 10/100 LAN Card

10/100 specifications

Boca Research is a recognized name in the field of networking hardware, particularly known for its role in the proliferation of 10/100 networking technology during the late 1990s and early 2000s. The Boca Research 10/100 series of network interface cards (NICs) and hubs represented a significant advancement, facilitating faster data transmission speeds for personal and professional computing environments.

One of the standout features of Boca Research's 10/100 technology is its dual-speed capability, supporting both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps Ethernet standards. This flexibility allowed users to easily upgrade their networks without the need for complete overhauls of existing infrastructure. The ability to switch between speeds ensured that users could benefit from increased bandwidth as their needs grew, all while maintaining compatibility with older 10Mbps devices.

The Boca Research 10/100 NICs were designed with Plug and Play support, enabling seamless installation and configuration on a range of operating systems. This user-friendly approach helped demystify networking for non-technical users, as the cards often automatically detected the network settings and optimized performance without requiring extensive manual configuration.

One of the key technologies behind the Boca Research 10/100 products was the implementation of the IEEE 802.3u standard, which defined the Fast Ethernet specifications. This compliance ensured not only compatibility with a wide array of networking equipment but also adherence to industry standards that promised reliable performance and stability.

In addition to speed and user-friendliness, Boca Research's 10/100 solutions also incorporated advanced features such as auto-negotiation, which allowed devices to automatically detect and align their operating speeds for optimal communication. This capability significantly reduced network bottlenecks and improved overall efficiency.

Moreover, Boca Research was committed to providing robust support and firmware updates, extending the lifespan of their products and ensuring that users benefited from the latest advances in networking technology. Their dedication to performance, combined with an accessible user experience, made the Boca Research 10/100 series popular among both home users and businesses seeking to modernize their networking setups.

Overall, the Boca Research 10/100 series was instrumental in shaping the landscape of Ethernet networking, offering versatile and efficient solutions that catered to the evolving demands of the digital age. Through a combination of cutting-edge technology, user-centric design, and ongoing support, Boca Research left an indelible mark on the industry, paving the way for future advancements in network connectivity.