Introduction to Data Communications
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38. Network Interface Cards

There are 3 configuration types of Network Interface Cards (NIC):

  1. jumper configurable
  2. software configurable
  3. Plug n Play (PnP)

Jumper configurable cards have physical jumpers that you use to select the IRQ, I/O address, upper memory block and transceiver type (10BaseT, 10Base2 or 10Base5). Older cards will also allow selecting DMA channel - this was used with XT and 286 PCs.

Software configurable NICs have a proprietary software program that sets the NIC's "internal jumpers". They are usually menu driven and have an auto configuration mode, where the program will attempt to determine the most suitable configuration. These programs are not foolproof, you still require a thorough knowledge of the PC's architecture.

Plug n Play NICs will attempt to auto-configure themselves during the bootup sequence immediately after installation. They also come with a proprietary software program in case that anything goes wrong and you have to manually configure them.

A combination (combo) NIC has the option of connecting to the network using either Twisted Pair (10BaseT), Coax (10Base2) or AUI (Attachment Unit Interface for 10Base5). The NIC can only connect to one medium type at a time and the configuration software allows you to select which medium interface to connect to. Newer NICs will autodetect the cabling type used.

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