TRENDnet TE100-S4PCI, User Manual

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1
Introduction
Thank you for choosing the 4-Port 10/100M NWay Ethernet Switch
Card. This Introduction chapter will be useful if you are new to Fast
Ethernet, Switch and other new technology featured by the 4-Port
10/100M NWay Ethernet Switch Card. Otherwise, skip ahead to the
Installation chapter.
About Fast Ethernet
Fast Ethernet is a network technology specified by IEEE Standard
802.3u. It extends the traditional 10Mbps Ethernet technology to
achieve 100Mbps transmission and reception, while retaining the
same CSMA/CD Ethernet protocol. Thus while Fast Ethernet
provides a tenfold increase in network capacity, it is wholly
compatible with traditional 10Mbps Ethernet network facilities. This
compatibility is the key to easy and efficient upgrades to 100Mbps in
your network areas needing greater bandwidth. Upgrading selected
areas to Fast Ethernet does not require hardware or software changes
in network areas where traditional 10Mbps Ethernet is providing good
service. For upgrading existing Ethernet installations to 100Mbps,
and especially for selectively upgrading areas needing upgrade, Fast
Ethernet is the clear choice in terms of cost-effectiveness, as well as
convenience and smoothness in transition.
Fast Ethernet comprises two subtypes: 100Base-T4 and 100Base-TX.
100Base-T4 Fast Ethernet can utilize existing Category 3 or Category
4 UTP network cabling, but does not provide for full duplex
operation. 100Base-TX requires Category 5 cabling, but does provide
full duplex operation. Full duplex 100Base-TX operation allows
simultaneous transmission and reception; both at 100Mbps, thus
providing service potentially equal to 200Mbps full-duplex service.
The 4-Port 10/100M NWay Ethernet Switch Card does not support
the 100Base-T4 subtype. To provide compatibility in traditional