4-40 PRO/100 LAN+Modem PC Card User’s Guide

NDIS 2.0.1 Settings (for driver

M16BNDIS.EXE)

Custom parameters for the NDIS driver can be entered manually, using an ASCII editor, in the PROTOCOL.INI file.

NDIS 2.0.1 DOS Driver Configuration Notes

The DOS NDIS driver M16BNDIS.EXE conforms to the Microsoft Network Driver Interface Specification (NDIS) version 2.0.1. It is a DOS- based executable terminate-and-stay-resident (TSR) program that will configure itself according to the options specified in the PROTOCOL.INI file, which is supplied on Disk 2. Network Drivers Disk.

The files required for using M16BNDIS.EXE are:

PROTOCOL.INI

Configuration and binding informa

 

tion file

M16BDOS.NIF

Intel installation file for Microsoft

 

LAN Manager

M16BNDIS.EXE

Intel DOS NDIS 2.0.1 driver

Most installations will be able to use the settings detected by the driver. If any parameters need to be changed, use an ASCII text editor to modify the PROTOCOL.INI file with the appropriate keywords and values.

Keyword syntax for PROTOCOL.INI can be found below. Keywords are not case sensitive, and can be abbreviated to a unique sequence of initial characters (for example, IN for INTERRUPT, IO for IOADDRESS). A Keyword Alphabetical Reference follows the keyword listings.

PROTOCOL.INI Example

[INTELNET]

DRIVERNAME=INTEL

MEM=0XD2000

MODE=IO

Page 77 Page 79
Page 78
Image 78
Intel PRO/100 appendix Ndis 2.0.1 Settings for driver, Ndis 2.0.1 DOS Driver Configuration Notes, Protocol.Ini, M16BDOS.NIF
Page 77 Page 79

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.
Top Page Image Contents