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HP E3000/IX, E3000 MPE/IX manual Appendix D 223

Models: E3000 MPE/IX E3000/IX

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PCI 10/100Base-TX/3000 Quick Installation

Notes on Autonegotiation and Autosensing

Notes on Autonegotiation and Autosensing

The PCI 10/100Base-TX/3000 product provides the means for interfacing various types of HP e3000 systems to either a 10Base-T or 100Base-TX network. 100Base-TX is a subset of 100Base-T networking defined by the IEEE 802.3u-1995 standard. 100Base-TX provides 100 Mbits/s data transmission over category 5 unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable for which two pairs of wires in the cable are used — one wire pair for receiving data, and one wire pair for transmitting data. The same card port that supports 100Base-TX operation can also support 10Base-T operation.

Autonegotiation is a mechanism defined in the IEEE 802.3u specification whereby devices sharing a link segment can exchange information while the link is being established and automatically configure themselves to operate at the most efficient mode shared between them.

Autonegotiation is like a rotary switch that automatically switches to the correct technology such as 10Base-T or 100Base-TX or between half- and full-duplex modes. Once the most efficient common mode is determined, autonegotiation passes control of the link to the appropriate technology, sets the appropriate duplex mode, and then becomes transparent until the link is broken.

The following is the IEEE 802.3u-defined autonegotiation hierarchy for resolving multiple common abilities for a 10/100Base-TX card:

•100Base-TX full-duplex (most efficient)

•100Base-TX half-duplex

•10Base-T full-duplex

•10Base-T half-duplex (least efficient)

For example, if both devices on the link support 10Base-T (half-duplex) and 100Base-TX (half-duplex), autonegotiation at both ends will select 100Base-TX (half-duplex) instead of 10Base-T (half-duplex).

Many 100Base-TX devices on the market today such as hubs and switches do not support autonegotiation. Either the speed and duplex mode of the device are fixed (as is usually the case with hubs), or they are often manually configured at the desired speed and duplex (as is often the case for switches). However, switches that support autonegotiation are becoming more commonplace

If the PCI 10/100Base-TX/3000 card is connected to a device, such as a switch, that is autonegotiating, the PCI card will autonegotiate with the device to mutually determine the highest possible speed and duplex settings between them.

Appendix D

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HP E3000/IX, E3000 MPE/IX manual Appendix D 223
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E3000 MPE/IX, E3000/IX specifications

The HP E3000 series, particularly the E3000/IX and E3000 MPE/IX, represents a significant milestone in the evolution of business computing, developed by Hewlett-Packard (HP) during the late 1970s and early 1980s. These systems were designed to provide robust, reliable, and efficient operation for mid-sized businesses, leveraging the power of the MPE (Multi-Programming Executive) operating system.

One of the main features of the HP E3000 series is its multitasking capability. MPE/IX allows for multiple applications to run concurrently, maximizing the utilization of system resources. This is particularly beneficial for organizations that require simultaneous access to various business applications, ensuring enhanced productivity and efficiency.

The HP E3000/IX architecture is built on a powerful 16-bit or 32-bit microprocessor, enabling it to handle substantial workloads. The system architecture is known for its modular design, which allows for easy upgrades and customization. This flexibility is essential for businesses that need to adapt to changing demands without overhauling their entire computing infrastructure.

Another notable technology incorporated into the HP E3000 series is its support for a range of storage solutions. The E3000 systems were compatible with various disk drives, providing organizations with options for data storage that matched their performance and capacity requirements. Additionally, they featured advanced data management capabilities, such as built-in backup and recovery systems, ensuring that critical business information remained secure and accessible.

Beyond hardware capabilities, HP E3000/IX and MPE/IX systems provide extensive programming support. They included tools for developing custom applications, with support for languages such as COBOL, BASIC, and FORTRAN. This versatility made it easier for businesses to tailor their software solutions to their specific needs, enhancing operational effectiveness.

Networking capabilities were also a significant innovation of the E3000 series. The systems offered robust support for various networking protocols, allowing for seamless integration with other computing environments. This facilitated communication and collaboration within an organization, as well as with external partners and clients.

In summary, the HP E3000/IX and E3000 MPE/IX systems were pivotal in delivering reliable computing power to mid-sized enterprises. With their multitasking operating system, modular architecture, advanced data management, and programming support, these systems provided an adaptable and comprehensive solution for evolving business needs. The legacy of the E3000 series is evident in how it paved the way for modern enterprise computing, focusing on flexibility, scalability, and efficiency.