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Intel PRO/100 appendix Changing Interrupt or I/O Address Settings, Preventing Memory Conflicts

Models: PRO/100

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Windows 3.x/MS-DOS Installation 4-35

Changing Interrupt or I/O Address Settings

The COMIRQ keyword is used to override the predefined interrupt value for a specific COM port in case of a conflict between LAN and modem settings. It can also be used with COMBASE to select a user-defined COM port. Default is keyword not used. Setting is a decimal value which must be different from the value used with the INTERRUPT keyword.

The COMBASE keyword can be used to override the predefined I/O port value for a specific COM port in case of a conflict between LAN and modem settings. It can also be used with COMIRQ to select a user- defined COM port. The default condition is “keyword not used.” Parameter setting is a hexadecimal value in the range 248 to 3F8 which must be different from the value used with the IOADDRESS or PORT keyword. Serial emulation mode requires 8 addresses.

The SHAREIRQ keyword is only valid when no Card Services are being used. It instructs the driver that the modem and LAN interfaces must share the IRQ line. State this keyword to configure the interface for one physical IRQ and one logical IRQ, instead of the two separate physical IRQs normally used by the PC Card controller.

Preventing Memory Conflicts

Memory allocation conflicts can cause the Intel driver to fail to load. The PRO/100 PC Card requires an 8K memory block located between C000 and EFFF, with a default starting address of D2000.

Some computers require that a different address be used. To change the memory address at which the Intel driver loads, use the MEMORY or MEM keyword in the driver configuration file or on the driver command line.

Memory Manager Exclusions

When using a memory manager such as EMM386, the memory manager will try to control the upper memory blocks where the Intel driver normally loads. To prevent conflicts, add a statement to the EMM386 command line excluding an 8K memory block between C000 and EFFF for the Intel driver. For example,

DEVICE=C:\PATH\EMM386.EXE NOEMS X=CC00-CDFF

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Intel PRO/100 appendix Changing Interrupt or I/O Address Settings, Preventing Memory Conflicts, Memory Manager Exclusions
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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.