Utilities and Applications 5-5

HARDWARE

This function attempts to determine if a PCMCIA controller exists on the machine. It first checks for PCI BIOS extensions, and then it searches for any PCMCIA controllers. If found it displays controller type, base I/O address, offset, number of the socket in which the PRO/100 is installed, and the PCI interrupt (if enabled by the BIOS).

NETWORK

This function enables the card on the Ethernet network and performs some diagnostics. It reports the operating mode and speed detected and monitors the network for traffic. Network traffic is shown on a graph. This graph provides a visual representation of the volume of traffic on the local area network (LAN). The Receive Statistics window displays the cumulative totals for received Packets, KBytes, and Errors.

RESOURCES

This function attempts to determine free resources that are available for use by the driver. It searches for memory, I/O, and IRQ.

ADVANCED

This function allows the user to set up advanced diagnostics.

ABOUT

This function displays the current version of the diagnostic program.

HELP

This function displays the help screen.

EXIT

This function exits the application.

COM port monitor (Windows 3.x only)

The Intel COM Port Monitor is an onscreen LED program that runs under Microsoft Windows 3.1 and 3.11, and Windows for Workgroups

3.11.The program provides a simulated onscreen display of modem status LEDs such as those found on external modems.

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Intel PRO/100 appendix COM port monitor Windows 3.x only, This function displays the help screen
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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.
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