C H A P T E R 4

Configuring Driver Parameters

This chapter describes how to configure the driver parameters used by the Sun GigaSwift Ethernet adapter. This chapter contains the following sections:

■“GigaSwift Ethernet Driver Parameter Values and Definitions” on page 38

■“Setting ce Driver Parameters” on page 46

■“Usability Enhancements to the Driver” on page 52

■“GigaSwift Ethernet Driver Operating Statistics” on page 54

GigaSwift Ethernet Device Driver

Parameters

The ce device driver controls the GigaSwift Ethernet devices. The ce driver is attached to the UNIX pci name property pci108e,abba for the Sun GigaSwift Ethernet adapter (108e is the vendor ID and abba is the PCI device ID).

You can manually configure the ce device driver parameters to customize each Sun GigaSwift Ethernet adapter device in your system. This section provides an overview of the capabilities of the GigaSwift Ethernet device used in the adapter, lists the available ce device driver parameters, and describes how to configure these parameters.

The Sun GigaSwift Ethernet UTP PCI adapter is capable of all the operating speeds and modes listed in “Setting the Autonegotiation Mode” on page 49. The ce device performs autonegotiation with the remote end of the link (link partner) to select a common mode of operation. The ce device also supports Forced mode operation.

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Sun Microsystems GigaSwift Ethernet Adapter Configuring Driver Parameters, GigaSwift Ethernet Device Driver Parameters
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GigaSwift Ethernet Adapter specifications

The Sun Microsystems GigaSwift Ethernet Adapter is a high-performance network interface card that was designed to provide advanced connectivity solutions for enterprise environments. Launched in the early 2000s, this adapter caters to the increasing demands for speed and efficiency in networking, especially amidst the rise of data-intensive applications.

One of the standout features of the GigaSwift Ethernet Adapter is its capability to support gigabit Ethernet technology, delivering data transfer rates of up to 1 Gbps. This allows organizations to boost their network throughput significantly, ensuring that bandwidth-intensive applications, such as video conferencing, online collaboration, and large file transfers, can be handled without significant lag or disruption.

The adapter utilizes a PCI-X interface, which enhances its performance compared to traditional PCI interfaces. This allows for higher bandwidth operations, making the GigaSwift suitable for servers and workstations that require robust connectivity. It is backward compatible with earlier Ethernet standards, which means it can seamlessly communicate with existing network infrastructures, preserving investments in legacy technologies.

Another critical characteristic of the GigaSwift Ethernet Adapter is its support for various networking protocols. It is designed to operate in diverse networking environments, supporting both full-duplex and half-duplex modes, which maximizes its efficiency in data transmission. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for heterogeneous networks where different devices and standards coexist.

Furthermore, the adapter features advanced error detection and correction technologies, ensuring reliable transmission of data over the network. With features such as flow control and jumbo frame support, it enhances the efficiency and performance of large-scale data transfers.

The GigaSwift also comes equipped with diagnostic and management utilities, allowing network administrators to monitor the network performance effectively. This is crucial for identifying bottlenecks and optimizing network configurations to ensure peak operational efficiency.

Overall, the Sun Microsystems GigaSwift Ethernet Adapter is an essential tool for businesses looking to upgrade their networking infrastructure. Its combination of speed, versatility, and reliability allows enterprises to adopt next-generation networking solutions while maintaining compatibility with existing systems, ultimately contributing to a more robust and efficient IT environment.
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