IXF1104 Quad-Port 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet Media Access Controller

Figure 9. PAUSE Frame Format

46

Number of bytes

6

1

6

6

2

2

2

42

4

S Preamble F D

DA* or 01-80- C2-00- 00-01

SA

Pause

88-08 Opcode

(00-01)

Pause Pad Length (with 0s)

FCS

64 Bytes

Note: In the Intel® IXF1104 architecture, the TX block of the MAC sets this as the pause multicast address.

The RX interface of the MAC will process this as the pause multicast or the MAC address.

B3218-01

An IEEE 802.3 MAC PAUSE frame is identified by detecting all of the following:

OpCode of 00-01

Length/Type field of 88-08

DA matching the unique multicast address (01-80-C2-00-00-01)

XOFF. A PAUSE frame informs the link partner to halt transmission for a specified length of time. The PauseLength octets specify the duration of the no-transmit period. If this time is greater than zero, the link partner must stop sending any further packets until this time has elapsed. This is referred to as XOFF.

XON. The MAC continues to transmit PAUSE frames with the specified Pause Length as long as the FIFO level exceeds the threshold. If the FIFO level falls below the threshold before the Pause Length time expires, the MAC sends another PAUSE frame with the Pause Length time specified as zero. This is referred to as XON and informs the link partner to resume normal transmission of packets.

5.1.2.1.2Pause Settings

The MAC must send PAUSE frames repeatedly to maintain the link partner in a Pause state. The following two inter-related variables control this process:

Pause Length is the amount of time, measured in multiples of 512 bit times, that the MAC requests the link partner to halt transmission for.

Pause Threshold is the amount of time, measured in multiples of 512 bit times, prior to the expiration of the Pause Length that the MAC transmits another Pause frame to maintain the link partner in the pause state.

The transmitted Pause Length in the IXF1104 is set by the “FC TX Timer Value ($ Port_Index + 0x07)” on page 163.

The IXF1104 PAUSE frame transmission interval is set by the “Pause Threshold ($ Port_Index + 0x0E)” on page 165.

Datasheet

71

Document Number: 278757

Revision Number: 007

Revision Date: March 25, 2004

Page 71
Image 71
Intel IXF1104 manual Pause Settings, Pause Frame Format

IXF1104 specifications

The Intel IXF1104 is a cutting-edge Network Interface Controller (NIC) designed to meet the needs of high-speed communication in modern networking environments. As the demand for bandwidth-intensive applications continues to grow, Intel's IXF1104 is engineered to deliver exceptional performance, reliability, and scalability, making it an ideal choice for data centers and enterprise networks.

One of the main features of the IXF1104 is its support for high-speed Ethernet connectivity, providing up to 100 Gbps throughput. This capability allows organizations to handle large amounts of data traffic efficiently, accommodating everything from cloud computing to big data analytics. The NIC utilizes advanced packet processing technology which ensures minimal latency, enhancing the overall user experience.

The IXF1104 is built on a robust architecture that integrates Intel's latest processing technologies. It incorporates a multi-core processing engine that allows for parallel processing of network packets, improving the handling of simultaneous network requests. This architecture also supports offloading features, freeing up CPU resources for other critical tasks, which optimizes system performance.

In terms of technologies, the IXF1104 supports a variety of standards including Ethernet and Fiber Channel, making it versatile across different networking environments. Its compatibility with industry-standard networking protocols ensures that it can easily integrate into existing frameworks, facilitating seamless upgrades and expansions.

Another significant characteristic of the IXF1104 is its energy efficiency. With Intel’s focus on sustainability, this NIC is designed to consume less power relative to its performance output, thereby reducing overall operational costs for organizations. It employs dynamic power management features that adjust power usage based on demand, which is especially beneficial in large-scale deployments.

Additionally, security features are woven into the IXF1104 design, protecting sensitive data from potential threats. Hardware-based security functions, including encryption capabilities and secure boot processes, ensure that the NIC can safeguard data integrity against unauthorized access.

Overall, the Intel IXF1104 stands out in the crowded NIC market by offering high-performance capabilities, energy efficiency, and robust security features. Its combination of advanced technologies and characteristics positions it as a strategic asset for modern networks, empowering organizations to achieve their connectivity and performance goals in an increasingly data-driven world.