Intel PRO/100 Generic Installation, HP LAN Manager, IBM Local Area Network Support Program

Models: PRO/100

1 178
Download 178 pages 6.09 Kb
Page 54
Image 54

4-16 PRO/100 LAN+Modem PC Card User’s Guide

Generic Installation

If your network operating system is not listed in the Intel Installation Program, you can try selecting “Generic NDIS Driver” or “Generic ODI Driver” in the Intel Installation Program and clicking the Install button. A sample configuration file containing parameters optimized for your system will be created in the \INTEL\M16B directory on your hard disk. For NDIS, this will be a custom PROTOCOL.INI file. For ODI, it will be a custom NET.CFG file. Use this sample file to assist you in configuring the actual configuration file for your system (or use the sample file itself if appropriate).

HP LAN Manager

NDIS 2.0 Driver

See Microsoft LAN Manager.

IBM Local Area Network Support Program

IBM Local Area Network Support Program (version 1.36)

NDIS 2.0 Driver

1Run the Installation Program from Intel Disk 1, Installation Disk.

2Choose IBM LAN Support Program from the Select Network Operating System screen.

3Follow the prompts to complete the Intel segment of the installa- tion.

4Install the IBM Local Area Network Support Program according to the instructions in the IBM Local Area Network Support Program User’s Guide.

5Under Environment Information, respond “no” to the question “Do you have adapter option disks?”

6Choose any adapter from the list provided.

7If prompted to do so, insert the Intel Disk 2, Network Drivers Disk when prompted and type the path

A:\NDIS

Page 54
Image 54
Intel PRO/100 appendix Generic Installation, HP LAN Manager, IBM Local Area Network Support Program

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.