Switch Management and Operating Concepts

RIP

The Routing Information Protocol (RIP) is a distance-vector protocol that uses hop count as its criteria for making routing decisions. The ZT 8101 switch supports both RIP v1 and RIP v2. You can configure the following RIP options:

Enable or disable RIP on the switch

Enable or disable transmitting RIP packets on a specific IP interface

Enable or disable receiving RIP packets on a specific IP interface

Distance Vector Multicast Routing Protocol (DVMRP)

The Distance Vector Multicast Routing Protocol (DVMRP) is a hop-based method of building multicast delivery trees from multicast sources to all network nodes. Because the delivery trees are “pruned” and use the “shortest path,” DVMRP is relatively efficient. Because multicast group membership information is forwarded by a distance-vector algorithm, propagation is slow. DVMRP is optimized for high delay (high latency) and relatively low bandwidth networks, and it can be considered as a “best-effort” multicasting protocol.

The switch supports DVMRP v3.

Protocol-Independent Multicast - Dense Mode (PIM-DM)

The Protocol Independent Multicast - Dense Mode (PIM-DM) protocol should be used in networks with a low delay (low latency) and high bandwidth because PIM-DM is optimized to guarantee delivery of multicast packets, not to reduce overhead. The switch supports PIM-DM v2.

The PIM-DM multicast routing protocol assumes that all downstream routers want to receive multicast messages and relies on explicit prune messages from downstream routers to remove branches from the multicast delivery tree that do not contain multicast group members.

PIM-DM has no explicit “join” messages. It relies on periodic flooding of multicast messages to all interfaces. It then waits for the following:

A timer to expire (the join/prune interval)

The downstream routers to transmit explicit “prune” messages indicating that there are no multicast members on their respective branches.

PIM-DM then removes these branches (“prunes” them) from the multicast delivery tree.

Because a member of a pruned branch of a multicast delivery tree may want to join a multicast delivery group (at some point in the future), the protocol periodically removes the prune information from its database and floods multicast messages to all interfaces on that branch. The interval for removing prune information is the join/prune interval.

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

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Intel ZT 8101 10/100 Distance Vector Multicast Routing Protocol Dvmrp, Protocol-Independent Multicast Dense Mode PIM-DM

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.