Intel PRO/100 appendix Noearlytx, Noleds, Port, Shareirq, Sint, Slot, Socket, Wordsize

Models: PRO/100

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4-46 PRO/100 LAN+Modem PC Card User’s Guide

NOEARLYTX

disables early transmit features of the PRO/100

 

PC Card. Try using this keyword if you are

 

experiencing a large number of transmit overruns.

NOLEDS

turns off network LED indicators on LAN adapter

 

cables to conserve battery power.

PORT

(ODI) specifies the LAN I/O address to use, in

 

hexadecimal notation. Default address is 320.

SHAREIRQ

is optional 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.

SINT

(Packet Driver) is number from hexadecimal 60 to

 

80 designating a software interrupt. Default is 60.

SLOT

Same as SOCKET but used with

 

IMENABLE.COM.

SOCKET

forces the driver to look in the selected socket

 

specifically for a PRO/100 PC Card. If no

 

keyword is stated, the driver will scan all PC Card

 

slots looking for the right card. Valid values are

 

from 1 to the number of PC Card slots supported

 

by the computer being used. This keyword may be

 

useful if you have a memory card or other PC Card

 

device in socket 1 and a PRO/100 PC Card in

 

socket 2. Then set the keyword to SOCKET=2 in

 

your configuration file or on the command line.

WORDSIZE

this parameter specifies the size of the data path

 

for the LAN controller. Values are 8 or 16 decimal.

 

Default is 16. Since the modem always uses an 8-

 

bit data path, this keyword does not affect the

 

modem.

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Intel PRO/100 appendix Noearlytx, Noleds, Port, Shareirq, Sint, Slot, Socket, Wordsize

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.