Windows 3.x/MS-DOS Installation 4-57

The driver loaded, but my DOS modem software won’t work

The PRO/100 PC Card is configured to add a second interrupt and I/O address window in order to emulate a standard serial port interface. Use the COMx keyword in your driver configuration file or as a command line parameter to enable serial port emulation. If no COMx keyword is used, the Intel driver will configure the PRO/100 PC Card at the first available COM port.

Pre-set default resources corresponding to the COM port value are used, as follows:

PORT

IRQ

IOADDRESS

COM1

4

03F8

COM2

3

02F8

COM3

4

03E8

COM4

3

02E8

The default setting for the COM port address can be changed by the COMBASE keyword. The default setting for the IRQ can be changed by the COMIRQ keyword. A second keyword that affects interrupt usage is SHAREIRQ. The SHAREIRQ keyword forces the modem side to share the interrupt that the network side is using. The INT or INTERRUPT keyword is used to set the interrupt the network side uses. Card and Socket Services also has an effect on interrupt usage.

To troubleshoot the issues described above, proceed as follows:

1Verify that the phone line is an analog phone line (the type used with other modems and fax machines). Connecting the PRO/100 PC Card to a digital phone line will not damage the adapter, but is not recommended.

2Verify that the COMx keyword is present in the driver configuration file or as a command line parameter as appropriate.

3Observe the COM port number stated when the driver loads. It should match the value of x assigned to the COMx keyword (decimal values or 1, 2, 3, or 4) in the driver configuration file (NET.CFG for M16BODI, PROTOCOL.INI for M16BNDIS) or as a command line parameter for the packet driver (M16BPD) or

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Intel PRO/100 appendix Driver loaded, but my DOS modem software won’t work, Port
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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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