5-6PRO/100 LAN+Modem PC Card User’s Guide

How to Use the COM port monitor

To launch the COM port monitor, double-click on the the COM port monitor icon in the Intel PRO/100 program group. The COM port monitor window will be present on the desktop and within applications, and can be moved by dragging it with the mouse.

COM port monitor is configurable with COM ports 1-4. To configure with a specific COM port, click once on the COM port monitor window, and a dialog box will appear. Select a COM port and click OK.

The COM port monitor window contains the following LEDs:

Tx

Transmit

Rx

Receive

CTS

Clear to Send

CD

Carrier Detect

RI

Ring Indication

To exit the COM port monitor program, Shift+Click on the COM port monitor window, or click on the window to open the dialog box, then click on the EXIT button.

Communications Application Notes and Modem Script Files

Note

The modem script files mentioned in this document are intended to be used if you have tried a generic Hayes or Microcom configuration without success. The files referred to in the application notes are available on disk 2, Network Drivers Disk, in the \scripts directory.

This section contains instructions for setting up your PRO/100 PC Card with several popular communications programs.

The following applications are covered in this section:

•America Online v. 3.0

•America Online v. 3.0 with Windows 95

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Intel PRO/100 Communications Application Notes and Modem Script Files, How to Use the COM port monitor, Cts, Clear to Send
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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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