Windows 3.x/MS-DOS Installation 4-47

Error Messages for Windows 3.x and MS-DOS drivers

Except as noted, these messages are specific to the PRO/100 PC Card. For an explanation of other messages that may appear on the screen, see your computer and network operating system documentation.

A PCMCIA card was not detected

If the SOCKET keyword was stated, then no PC Card was detected in the slot specified. If the SOCKET keyword was not used, then no PC Card was detected in any slot.

An invalid I/O address was specified

The PRO/100 PC Card requires 32 consecutive I/O locations. This message indicates that the I/O address specified does not start on a 32- byte boundary. Examples of valid I/O addresses, in hexadecimal notation, are 300, 320, 240. Examples of invalid I/O addresses are 301, 325, 247.

M16BODI only supports the BUS ID PC Card, not the selected BUS ID. Either delete the BUS ID keyword from the NET.CFG file or change its value to 3.

This message applies only to the ODI driver. Do not use the keyword BUS ID in the ODI NET.CFG file. If you do use it, you must set the value to 3.

Network Controller running in 8-bit mode

The Network Interface Controller (NIC) has been forced to run in 8-bit mode with the keyword WORDSIZE set at 8 (default is 16-bit mode). This option is used when the PC Card hardware does not support 16-bit mode.

Network Controller running in I/O mode

The Network Interface Controller (NIC) has been forced to run in I/O- only mode with the keyword MODE set at IO (default is MEM). This option is used when the PC Card hardware does not support perfor- mance-enhancing memory-mapped I/O mode.

Page 84 Page 86
Page 85
Image 85
Intel PRO/100 appendix Error Messages for Windows 3.x and MS-DOS drivers, Pcmcia card was not detected
Page 84 Page 86

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