Introduction; About Fast Ethernet - D-Link DFE-530TX User Manual

DFE-530TX 10/100Mbps Ethernet Adapter for PCI Bus
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Introduction

Thank you for choosing D-Link DFE-530TX, the value leader
among Fast Ethernet adapters for PCI Bus personal computers.
This Introduction chapter will be useful if you are new to Fast
Ethernet and other new technology featured by the DFE-530TX.
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/CA 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
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