Traffic Control, IP Forwarding, ARP Table

Switch Management and Operating Concepts

Traffic Control

You can also set thresholds for the amount of traffic a port can handle before triggering flow control. The flow control threshold sets the limit for the maximum amount of memory a port can use to hold packets. When a port reaches this limit, the port sends a signal to slow down the packets coming in:

•Ports in half-duplex mode assert a jamming signal.

•Ports in full-duplex mode send PAUSE frames.

You can set the flow control thresholds for individual ports and then monitor the status.

IP Forwarding

You can configure how packets are forwarded, based on their IP address, by configuring entries for the ARP table and the routing table.

ARP Table

The ARP table maintains the mappings from Internet addresses (IP) to hardware addresses (MAC). There are two types of ARP entries: dynamic and static.

When a static ARP entry is added to the switch's ARP table, the switch does not send an ARP query to the configured IP address. This allows the switch to connect to devices that have not implemented ARP.

The ARP table has the following characteristics:

•Static entries have higher precedence than dynamic entries. Therefore, a static entry will not be overwritten by a dynamic entry.

•The aging time for dynamic entries is 20 minutes. This value is not configurable.

•The table can be up to 2 KB in size.

•Up to 32 static entries are allowed in the table.

Router Ports

Router ports allow multicast packets to be propagated throughout the network. Router ports can be either static or dynamic. Static router ports are special routes that you manually enter into the switch’s routing table. Usually it is a port that has a router attached to it, and the router has a connection to a WAN or to the Internet. Static router ports should be used sparingly, because when a network failure occurs, they do not change. However, they can reduce network traffic by eliminating the need for a routing protocol on a local network. For example, a local network, which has only one link to the network, is an ideal candidate for a static route. You can also use them to restrict the transmission path a datagram must follow, based on the datagram's destination address. You can add up to 32 static entries into the routing table.

Dynamic router ports are added by the switch. The switch monitors each port for UDP multicast packets and IGMP multicast group membership reports. When these packets are detected on a port, that port is dynamically assigned as a router port.

28	Intel® NetStructure™ ZT 8101 10/100 Ethernet Switch User’s Manual

ZT 8101 10/100 specifications

The Intel ZT 8101 10/100 is a highly regarded network interface controller designed for efficient data communication in both home and enterprise environments. This versatile chip offers robust support for various networking technologies, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

One of the most significant features of the Intel ZT 8101 is its capability to operate at both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps, allowing for seamless integration into existing networks. This dual-speed functionality ensures that users can enjoy the benefits of faster data transfer rates while still maintaining compatibility with legacy hardware. The device automatically detects the network speed, facilitating a plug-and-play experience that minimizes user intervention.

The Intel ZT 8101 utilizes advanced features such as full-duplex support, which enables simultaneous data transmission and reception. This capability significantly enhances network efficiency and maximizes throughput, making it ideal for environments with high data traffic. Moreover, the chip employs sophisticated packet processing algorithms to prioritize data, reducing latency and ensuring smoother communication.

In terms of power efficiency, the Intel ZT 8101 is designed to consume minimal power, making it a suitable choice for energy-conscious applications. Its low power consumption allows for more efficient operations, contributing to overall system stability and longevity. Additionally, it incorporates power management features that can dynamically adjust the power usage based on network demand.

Another notable characteristic is the integration of hardware-based flow control, which helps prevent data packet loss during high-utilization periods. This capability is essential for maintaining the integrity of data transmission in busy network environments. The chip’s robust error detection and correction mechanisms further enhance data reliability, minimizing the chances of transmission errors.

The Intel ZT 8101 supports various network standards, including IEEE 802.3 and IEEE 802.3u, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of Ethernet devices. Its flexibility makes it an excellent choice for network upgrades, expansions, or new installations, allowing users to tailor their network infrastructure according to specific needs.

In summary, the Intel ZT 8101 10/100 network interface controller stands out for its dual-speed support, energy efficiency, and advanced networking features. Whether for home users looking to improve their network performance or businesses seeking reliable data communication solutions, the ZT 8101 represents a compelling choice that combines technology, reliability, and efficiency. As network demands continue to evolve, this Intel chip remains a fundamental component in many networking scenarios.

Intel ZT 8101 10/100 user manual Traffic Control, IP Forwarding, ARP Table, Router Ports

Models: ZT 8101 10/100