Technology Basics; About Fast Ethernet - D-Link DFE-530TX+ User Manual

Appendix A - Technology Basics

Technology Basics

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, Fast Ethernet
is the clear choice in terms of cost-effectiveness, as well as convenience and smoothness in transition.
Category 5 cabling is required for 100Base-TX Fast Ethernet in order to 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.
To provide compatibility in traditional 10Mbps Ethernet environments (where, for example, DFE-530TX+ adapters
are installed anticipating upgrade of supporting switch equipment to Fast Ethernet), the DFE-530TX+ also supports
traditional 10Mbps Ethernet operation, in full-duplex as well as half-duplex modes. Selection of the best operation mode
in any given installation is automatically governed by auto-negotiation.
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