Windows 95 Installation 2-11

1Be sure you have the latest firmware and driver.

To determine what firmware and driver version you have, click My Computer, Control Panel, Modems, highlight the Intel EtherExpress™ PRO 100 LAN+Modem PC Card (Modem), click Diagnostics, click the Port the Intel modem is using, click More Info. The firmware information for the adapter should display.

To find out what the latest versions are, and to download updated versions if necessary, access the Intel BBS or web site (see the Intel Automated Customer Support information toward the end of this guide).

2Run the Intel diagnostic utility M16BTEST.

To verify correct operation of the PRO/100 PC Card, run the Intel diagnostic test utility provided on Disk 2, Network Drivers Disk. Follow the steps below.

1Shut down Windows 95 and power the machine off.

2Restart Windows 95. Press the F8 key when the message Starting Windows 95 appears on the screen. Choose Safe Mode Command Prompt Only from the Startup menu (or press Shift+F5 to go directly to the command prompt).

3Run M16BTEST.EXE at the MS-DOS prompt. (See Chapter 5. Utilities and Applications for more detailed instructions.)

4If your Intel PC Card does not test properly, try the same procedure on another computer. If the card still does not work, contact Intel Customer Support.

3Be sure that PCMCIA support is enabled in Windows 95.

In some cases, Windows 95 PCMCIA support may not have been installed or enabled during an upgrade or installation, due to previous machine configurations or options selected during installation. If this Windows 95 support is not enabled, run the PCMCIA Wizard by double-clicking on

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Intel PRO/100 appendix Be sure you have the latest firmware and driver, Run the Intel diagnostic utility M16BTEST
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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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