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Intel PRO/100 appendix Main Screen, Test

Models: PRO/100

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5-4PRO/100 LAN+Modem PC Card User’s Guide

Main Screen

The program consists of several function “buttons” and a view pane. Pressing or invoking a function will bring up the corresponding screen in the view pane. This view remains until another is selected. To exit M16BTEST type 'x' or push the 'Exit' button.

When a function is active, the button appears to remain down or pushed. Once the button pops up, the function is completed and the screen is a passive results display.

There are nine functions which can be invoked by pushing the associated button on the main screen. A button can be pushed by pressing the highlighted letter indicated on the button, or by using the left mouse button. Each function is explained below.

TEST

This function uses the current configuration to initialize the adapter and verify it is powered on and properly seated in its slot. It displays the current setting and test result for each parameter. Parameters are config- ured through the CONFIGURE function described below. If a card is detected and initialized successfully, the CIS information is displayed.

A failure may indicate that service is required for the PRO/100 PC Card. Contact Intel Customer Support.

The CIS section displays the serial number of the unit, its manufacturing date, and its network node address. This data has been preprogrammed at the factory and cannot be altered.

CONFIGURE

This function allows the user to set the parameters used for testing. The address mode can be set to Auto, Memory, or I/O. For Memory and I/O a hexadecimal address can be specified. The IRQ can be set to Auto, or IRQ. The IRQ selection can be used to force a particular interrupt. The network line speed and line mode can also be set from this function.

SOFTWARE

This function attempts to determine what software is currently loaded that could affect the operation of the card. It displays the current version of MS-DOS and Windows, and any Card and Socket Services available (under Windows 3.x or MS-DOS).

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Intel PRO/100 appendix Main Screen, Test
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PRO/100 specifications

The Intel PRO/100 network adapter series, introduced in the mid-1990s, revolutionized networking by providing robust performance and reliability for both desktop and server environments. These adapters were pivotal in enabling fast Ethernet connectivity, helping to establish standards that would be instrumental in the advancement of network technology.

One of the primary features of the Intel PRO/100 series is its support for 10/100 Mbps Ethernet speeds. This dual-speed capability allowed organizations to transition seamlessly from older 10 Mbps networks to faster 100 Mbps connections without the need for a complete hardware overhaul. This adaptability made the PRO/100 cards a flexible choice for various network architectures.

Another significant characteristic of the Intel PRO/100 is its use of advanced bus mastering technology. This feature enhances data throughput by allowing the network adapter to take control of the system's bus when transmitting data. By doing so, it minimizes CPU overhead, which results in better overall system performance and efficient network communication. This was particularly beneficial in environments where network traffic was heavy, allowing the processors to handle other tasks without being bogged down.

The Intel PRO/100 series was also incorporated with Intel’s Plug and Play technology. This innovation simplified the installation process, automatically detecting the hardware and configuring it to work with existing system resources. As a result, system administrators could save time and reduce errors during setup, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to streamline their IT operations.

In terms of compatibility, the PRO/100 adapters supported a variety of network operating systems, including Windows NT, Linux, and Novell NetWare, providing users with a versatile solution for integrating into existing infrastructures. Furthermore, the cards were designed with high-quality, durable components to ensure longevity and reliability even in demanding environments.

Intel also emphasized the importance of network security and management with these adapters. The PRO/100 series featured capabilities for diagnostics and performance monitoring, allowing administrators to quickly identify and resolve network issues. Advanced features like Wake-on-LAN (WoL) provided additional functionality, enabling remote management and maintenance.

In conclusion, the Intel PRO/100 network adapter series represented a significant leap in networking technology during its time. With features such as dual-speed functionality, bus mastering, Plug and Play installation, and extensive compatibility, it laid the foundation for future innovations in network communication, solidifying Intel's reputation as a leader in networking solutions. Whether for small businesses or large enterprises, the PRO/100 series offered the reliability and performance critical to maintaining efficient and effective network operations.