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Article ID: 43 Last Updated: November 1, 2025
Operating System(s): ALL

What is Ethernet?
Ethernet is a standard developed by the Institute of Electric and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). The Ethernet standard conforms to the IEEE 802.3 standard. Some examples of Ethernet networks are 10 BASE-T and 10 BASE-2. A standard Ethernet network has a maximum data transfer rate of 10Mbps.

What is Fast Ethernet?
Fast Ethernet is a standard also compatible with the IEEE 802.3 standard, but designed to take advantage of the 32-bit PCI bus. Speed is the main difference between a standard Ethernet network and a Fast Ethernet network. A Fast Ethernet network has a maximum data transfer rate of 100Mbps while a standard Ethernet network has a maximum data transfer rate of 10Mbps.

NOTE: Fast Ethernet networks and standard Ethernet networks are not compatible. Special Hubs are needed when using standard Ethernet and Fast Ethernet hardware on the same network.

What is a Hub?
A Hub acts as a "traffic cop" and controls all the data that flows through a network. Most Hubs have a BNC connector for hooking up additional Hubs or for connecting to a 10 BASE-2 network.

NOTE: A Hub must be used with any 10 BASE-T or 100 BASE-T network.

What does NIC stand for?
NIC is an acronym for Network Interface Card.

What does NOS stand for?
NOS is an acronym for Network Operating System.

What is the difference between a 10 BASE network and a 100 BASE network?
A 10 BASE network is a standard Ethernet network, while a 100 BASE network is a Fast Ethernet network. Speed is the main difference between the two. The 10 BASE network runs at a maximum of 10Mbps and the 100 BASE network runs at a maximum of 100Mbps.

What is 10 BASE-T and 100 BASE-T?
10 BASE-T and 100 BASE-T are Ethernet networks that use twisted pair (also known as RJ-45) cabling between a NIC and a Hub to tie the network together. The main advantage of this type of network is its ease of installation and expandability.

What is 10 BASE-2?
10 BASE-2 is an Ethernet network that uses BNC (also known as RG-58) cabling attached to a chain of T-connectors with a 50 ohm terminator at each end of the chain. The main advantage of this type of network is the ability to have each computer up to 185 meters apart.

Where can I find drivers for my Infotel Ethernet NIC?
All of the Infotel NIC cards are NE-2000 compatible. Most NOSs have drivers included for NE-2000 compatible cards so no special drivers are needed. If however, your card does not seem to function correctly when using the generic NE-2000 drivers, drivers for all of our NIC cards can be found on our BBS at (513) 368-3741 or on our Ftp site.

 

The above information pertains specifically to MidWest Micro products. MidWest Micro will not be held liable for the misuse of the above information.


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