Intel® IXF1104 4-Port Gigabit Ethernet Media Access Controller

The IXF1104 MAC implements the IEEE 802.3x standard RX FIFO threshold-based Flow Control in copper and fiber modes. When appropriately programmed, the MAC can both generate and respond to IEEE standard pause frames in full-duplex operation. The IXF1104 MAC also supports externally triggered flow control through the Transmit Pause Control interface.

In half-duplex operation, the MAC generates collisions instead of sending pause frames to manage the incoming traffic from the link partner

5.1.2.1802.3x Flow Control (Full-Duplex Operation)

The IEEE 802.3x standard identifies four options related to system flow control:

•No Pause

•Symmetric Pause (both directions)

•Asymmetric Pause (Receive direction only)

•Asymmetric Pause (Transmit direction only)

The IXF1104 supports all four options on a per-port basis. Bits 2:0 of the “FC Enable ($ Port_Index

+0x12)” on page 168 provide programmable control for enabling or disabling flow control in each direction independently.

The IEEE 802.3x flow control mechanism is accomplished within the MAC sublayer, and is based on RX FIFO thresholds called watermarks. The RX FIFO level rises and falls as packets are received and processed. When the RX FIFO reaches a watermark (either exceeding a High or dropping below a Low after exceeding a High), the IXF1104 control sublayer signals an internal state machine to transmit a PAUSE frame. The FIFOs automatically generate PAUSE frames (also called control frames) to initiate the following:

•Halt the link partner when the High watermark is reached.

•Restart the link partner when the data stored in the FIFO falls below the Low watermark.

Figure 7 illustrates the IEEE 802.3 FIFO flow control functions.

Datasheet

70

Document Number: 278757

Revision Number: 009

Revision Date: 27-Oct-2005

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Intel IXF1104 manual 2.1 802.3x Flow Control Full-Duplex Operation, Illustrates the Ieee 802.3 Fifo flow control functions
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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.
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