Intel PRO/100 appendix How Can I Tell Which Version and Service Pack I Have?

Models: PRO/100

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3-2 PRO/100 LAN+Modem PC Card User’s Guide

How Can I Tell Which Version and Service Pack I Have?

If you don't know what version you have, follow the steps below.

If you know you have Version 4.0, skip to the Windows NT 4.0 Installation section. No additional version information is required.

If you know you have Version 3.51, follow the steps below to determine what Service Pack version is installed. This information is required in step 9 of the Windows NT 3.51 Installation section.

To obtain version and Service Pack information, proceed as follows:

1Open the Windows NT Diagnostics application in the Administra- tive Tools folder. The Administrative Tools folder can be found in the Program Manager window (Windows NT 3.51 interface) or by selecting Start and Programs (Windows NT 4.0 interface).

2In the Diagnostics application, version information can be found either by selecting the Version tab or by clicking the OS Version ...

button.

3If the version is 3.51, be sure to note the value of the Service Pack field:

For Windows NT Version 3.51 with Service Pack 5 or greater, follow step 9a in the installation instructions for Windows NT 3.51.

For all other versions of Windows NT 3.51, follow step 9b in the installation instructions for Windows NT 3.51.

Additional Information in this Chapter

This chapter also contains the following information:

Power Saving Modes

Utilities

Driver Parameters Reference

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Intel PRO/100 appendix How Can I Tell Which Version and Service Pack I Have?, Additional Information in this Chapter

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.