CHAPTER 1

Hardware Installation

Introduction

The PRO/100 PC Card is the ideal high-speed, multifunction solution for portable PC users. It supports 10 and 100Mbps Ethernet networks and modem speeds up to 56Kbps for high-performance connectivity in any environment. The PRO/100 PC Card plugs into your computer’s Type II PC Card slot for simultaneous connection to an Ethernet LAN and the telephone network.

56K Technology

The PRO/100 PC Card uses K56flex* modem technology to reach speeds up to 56Kbps. K56flex Technology enables notebook users to access information and E-mail on corporate networks, the Internet and other online services at speeds up to 56Kbps over standard phone lines.

These higher speeds are achieved by avoiding conversion from digital to analog lines in the connection between the user and service provider. Ordinary connections begin over an analog line, are converted to digital by the phone company and are converted back to analog in the final segment before arriving at the service provider. In order to achieve 56K connections, there can only be one digital to analog conversion. This requires the service provider to have a direct digital connection and therefore, avoids one conversion of the signal. By avoiding this conver- sion, data download speeds up to 56K are possible. Data sent upstream by the user travels at the standard V.34 rate. Also, the modems at both ends of the call must be compatible to achieve speeds up to 56K. If the modems at both ends of the call are not compatible, they will negotiate a standard V.34 connection.

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Intel PRO/100 appendix Hardware Installation, Introduction, 56K Technology
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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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