Troubleshooting the Network Connection
41
Troubleshooting the Network Connection
If you encounter problems with the NIC or connecting to the network, check the table 
below for troubleshooting tips.
Troubleshooting Remote Wake-Up
If your PC does not boot in response to a Remote Wake-Up event, perform these 
troubleshooting steps:
1 Make sure that the PC meets the Remote Wake-Up requirements listed in Chapter 1.
2 Make sure that you are using the latest driver for the NIC.
This driver is shipped with the NIC on the EtherCD. It can also be downloaded from:
http://www.3com.com
CAUTION: Before inserting or removing the NIC from the PC, turn the PC power 
off and unplug the power cord.
Tip Description
Check the NIC installation On a Windows 98, 95, or NT 4.0 PC, make sure that you have run the preinstallation program, as 
described in "Running the Preinstallation Program for Windows 95/98" on page 10. This program must 
be run before installing the NIC in a PC with one of these operating systems.
Make sure that the NIC is installed correctly in a PCI slot. Check for specific hardware problems, such as 
broken traces or loose or broken solder connections.
Check the network 
connection
Inspect all cables and connections. Make sure that the cable complies with length and rating 
specifications described in "Connecting the NIC to the Network" on page 14.
Check your PC BIOS Make sure that you are running the latest BIOS for your PC. If your BIOS has not been upgraded in the 
previous 12 months, consult your PC manufacturer to obtain the current version of your BIOS software.
Run the NIC diagnostic tests Run the NIC and Network Tests, as described in “Running the NIC Diagnostics Tests” on page 47.
If the tests fail, replace the NIC with a known working NIC and run the tests again, using the same 
configuration settings as those used on the failed NIC. If the working NIC passes all tests, the original 
NIC is probably defective. For information on product repair, see “Technical Support” in Appendix E.
Run the 3Com Connection 
Assistant self-service.
Install the 3Com Connection Assistant and run the self-service option. This option analyzes your NIC and 
system, and guides you through troubleshooting steps to help resolve the problem.
Download the latest 
NIC driver
Download and install the latest NIC driver from:
http://www.3com.com
Run the Undo Broken 
Installation and Uninstall 
program
The Undo Broken Installation and Uninstall program is located on the EtherCD. See “Cleaning Up a 
Failed Installation” on page 39 for instructions.
Check the 3Com support 
databases
Review the known problems and solutions found in the following areas:
■ 3Com Knowledgebase
■ 3Com NIC Help system
■ Release Notes and Frequently Asked Questions
See “Accessing 3Com Support Databases” on page 38 for instructions on using these databases.