Glossary

10Base-T

10 Mbps, BASEband operation, unshielded Twisted-pair wiring used for Ethernet networks.

Agent

A node (or software/hardware on a node) that supplies network management information.

Battery-backed RAM

The probe’s memory that contains a copy of the probe configuration. If power is removed from the probe (either by unplugging the power cord or from a power outage), this memory is preserved by power provided by the probe's internal battery.

Bridge

A device providing an intelligent connection between two otherwise independent LANs. Bridges operate at layer 2 of the ISO OSI reference model. A bridge inspects every packet originating on either LAN and creates a table of nodes and their locations. It isolates the LANs from each other, allowing both sides to pass traffic internally. If a transmission from one LAN is addressed to a node on the other LAN, the bridge transmits it onto the other LAN for the destination node.

Broadcast address

The station address FFFFFF-FFFFFF. Packets intended for all nodes on a LAN use this address as the destination address.

Broadcast packet

A packet sent to all nodes on a LAN.

Collision

The result of two or more nodes on a LAN transmitting at the same time, producing a garbled transmission.

Console

The ASCII terminal, or PC emulating an ASCII terminal that is connected to the probe and used to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot the probe.

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IBM 4986B LanProbe manual Agent, Battery-backed RAM, Bridge, Broadcast address, Broadcast packet, Collision, Console

4986B LanProbe specifications

The IBM 4986B LanProbe is a sophisticated network diagnostic tool that plays a crucial role in the maintenance and optimization of computer networks. Known for its advanced features and robust performance, the LanProbe is specifically designed to assist network administrators in monitoring, analyzing, and troubleshooting network issues efficiently.

One of the main features of the IBM 4986B LanProbe is its ability to capture and analyze network traffic in real time. This capability is essential for identifying bottlenecks, diagnosing connectivity problems, and overseeing data transfers across the network. The device employs advanced packet sniffing technology, allowing it to interpret various communication protocols within the network environment. This functionality enhances the speed and accuracy of network diagnostics, ensuring that administrators can quickly respond to issues as they arise.

The LanProbe is equipped with a user-friendly interface that simplifies the process of navigating its numerous features. It includes visual graphs, charts, and data logs that present network activity in an easily digestible format. This intuitive design is beneficial for both seasoned network engineers and less experienced users. Furthermore, the device supports a variety of operating systems, making it versatile and adaptable to different network infrastructures.

Another significant characteristic of the IBM 4986B is its compatibility with various networking technologies, including Ethernet, Token Ring, and WLAN. This flexibility enables the LanProbe to function effectively in diverse environments, providing comprehensive visibility into both wired and wireless segments of a network. Additionally, it supports multiple network topologies, allowing administrators to perform checks across various configurations with ease.

The device also offers logging capabilities, enabling users to store historical network data for later analysis. These logs can be invaluable for identifying recurring issues, generating reports, and conducting strategic network planning. Security features such as access control and auditing help ensure that only authorized personnel can view sensitive network information, thus safeguarding the integrity of the system.

In conclusion, the IBM 4986B LanProbe is a powerful tool that combines advanced diagnostic capabilities with user-friendly features. Its ability to monitor, analyze, and troubleshoot various networking technologies makes it an indispensable asset for network administrators. With its robust performance and versatile compatibility, the LanProbe continues to be a vital component in the efficient management of modern network infrastructures.