TABLE D-1lists the tunable ixge driver parameters for Linux operating systems, and describes their function.

TABLE D-1Tunable ixge Driver Parameters for Linux Operating Systems

Keyword

Description

 

 

FlowControl

Valid Range: 0-3 (0=none, 1=Rx only, 2=Tx only, 3=Rx&Tx)

 

Default: Read from the EEPROM

 

If EEPROM is not detected, default is 3.

 

This parameter controls the automatic generation (Tx) and response

 

(Rx) to Ethernet PAUSE frames.

RxDescriptiors

Valid Range: 64-4096

 

Default Value: 1024

 

This value is the number of receive descriptors allocated by the driver.

 

Increasing this value allows the driver to buffer more incoming packets.

 

Each descriptor is 16 bytes. A receive buffer is also allocated for each

 

descriptor and can be either 2048, 4056, 8192, or 16384 bytes, depending

 

on the MTU setting. When the MTU size is 1500 or less, the receive

 

buffer size is 2048 bytes. When the MTU is greater than 1500 the receive

 

buffer size will be either 4056, 8192, or 16384 bytes. The maximum MTU

 

size is 16114.

RxIntDelay

Valid Range: 0-65535 (0=off)

 

Default Value: 72

 

This value delays the generation of receive interrupts in units of 0.8192

 

microseconds. Receive interrupt reduction can improve CPU efficiency

 

if properly tuned for specific network traffic. Increasing this value adds

 

extra latency to frame reception and can end up decreasing the

 

throughput of TCP traffic. If the system is reporting dropped receives,

 

this value may be set too high, causing the driver to run out of available

 

receive descriptors.

TxDescriptors

Valid Range: 64-4096

 

Default Value: 256

 

This value is the number of transmit descriptors allocated by the driver.

 

Increasing this value allows the driver to queue more transmits. Each

 

descriptor is 16 bytes.

XsumRX

Valid Range: 0-1

 

Default Value: 1

 

A value of 1 indicates that the driver should enable IP checksum offload

 

for received packets (both UDP and TCP) to the adapter hardware.

 

 

58 Sun 10-Gigabit Ethernet PCI-X Adapter Installation and User’s Guide • December 2005

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Sun Microsystems Ethernet PCI-X Adapter manual Valid Range 0-3 0=none, 1=Rx only, 2=Tx only, 3=Rx&Tx

Ethernet PCI-X Adapter specifications

The Sun Microsystems Ethernet PCI-X Adapter stands as a pivotal component for enhancing network performance in various computing environments. Designed to cater to the demanding needs of enterprise networks, this adapter provides a seamless integration of high-speed connectivity with robust hardware design, making it a preferred choice for businesses relying on Sun systems.

One of the standout features of the Sun Ethernet PCI-X Adapter is its adherence to the PCI-X interface, which allows for faster data transfer rates compared to traditional PCI. With speeds of up to 1 Gbps, this adapter supports larger data throughput, significantly improving the efficiency of data-intensive applications. The PCI-X standard, operating at an impressive 64-bit bus, not only enhances performance but also ensures backward compatibility with earlier PCI standards, offering flexibility in deployment.

In terms of network connectivity, the adapter supports both 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet speeds, allowing it to automatically negotiate the best speed based on network conditions. This feature is particularly advantageous for enterprises with diverse networking equipment, enabling seamless integration without compromising on performance.

The Sun Microsystems Ethernet PCI-X Adapter comes equipped with advanced technologies such as Jumbo Frames support. This allows for the transmission of larger packets over the network, which is beneficial for applications that require the movement of substantial amounts of data, like video streaming or large file transfers. By facilitating Jumbo Frames, the adapter minimizes CPU load and enhances overall throughput, leading to better resource utilization.

Another noteworthy characteristic of this adapter is its robust error checking and correction capabilities. This ensures data integrity during transmission, reducing the likelihood of packet loss and improving the reliability of network communications. Coupled with support for multiple protocols, including TCP/IP, the Ethernet PCI-X Adapter provides versatility, adapting to various network configurations and applications.

Furthermore, the adapter boasts a high-performance driver suite, which enhances its compatibility across different operating systems, ensuring smooth integration into existing network environments. The flexibility and scalability of this adapter make it an ideal solution for current and future network demands.

In conclusion, the Sun Microsystems Ethernet PCI-X Adapter delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and versatility, making it an essential asset for enterprises seeking to enhance their networking capabilities. Whether for upgrading existing infrastructure or supporting new applications, this adapter stands out as a dependable choice for high-speed connectivity in the constantly evolving technology landscape.