Hardware Installation 1-3

HotSwap

This card supports HotSwap on a PC Card computer that is running Microsoft Windows 95 or Windows 3.x/MS-DOS using Card and Socket Services. This feature allows the PRO/100 PC Card to be removed from the computer, temporarily replaced with another type of PC card, then reinserted without loss of the local area network connection.

Power Management Suspend/Resume

Power management features such as suspend/resume are supported by the PRO/100 PC Card on PCMCIA systems running Windows 95 or Win- dows NT, or Windows 3.x/MS-DOS using Card and Socket Services. This means that when the computer enters a reduced power or power saving mode, an ongoing local area network connection will remain active for the period of time allowed by the network operating system

Hardware Installation

Note

Hardware installation requirements may vary with different operating systems. For example, if your system is configured for automatic detection of the card (for example, under Windows 95), the computer should be ON and standard operating software loaded when the card is inserted. For installation instructions specific to your particular environment, see the appropriate chapter: Chapter 2. Installation with Windows 95, Chapter 3. Installation with Windows NT, and Chapter 4. Installation with Windows 3.x/MS-DOS.

The PRO/100 PC Card is compatible with Type II PC Card slots. The hardware installation procedures outlined here are typical. Installation and removal procedures vary on different PC Card-capable computers and under different operating systems.

Unpacking and Inspection

After opening the PRO/100 PC Card box, verify that all parts are included and have not been damaged during transportation. Retain the packing materials.

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Intel PRO/100 appendix Hardware Installation, Unpacking and Inspection, HotSwap, Power Management Suspend/Resume
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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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