The X-MEDIA Gigabit PCI/PCIe Network Adapter, available in models XM-NA3500 and XM-NA3800, is a highly integrated and cost-effective solution for upgrading network environments from 10/100Mbps to 1000Mbps. This user guide covers the installation and specifications for both models, which share common functionalities and features, differing primarily in their physical appearance and specific slot compatibility.
Function Description:
The primary function of this device is to provide a high-speed Gigabit Ethernet connection for desktop computers. It acts as a network interface card (NIC) that can be installed into an available PCI or PCIe slot on a computer's motherboard. Once installed and with the appropriate drivers, it enables the computer to connect to a local area network (LAN) or the internet at Gigabit speeds, facilitating faster data transfer and improved network performance. The adapter supports auto-negotiation, allowing it to automatically detect and adapt to network speeds of 10Mbps, 100Mbps, or 1000Mbps. It also supports both Half-Duplex and Full-Duplex transfer modes for 10/100Mbps, and Full-Duplex for 1000Mbps, ensuring efficient data flow.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Standards Compliance: Fully compliant with IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3ab, IEEE 802.3x, IEEE 802.1q, and IEEE 802.1p. This ensures broad compatibility with existing network infrastructure and support for advanced networking features like VLAN tagging and Layer 2 Priority Encoding.
- Interface: Available in two versions: a 32-bit PCI standard for the XM-NA3500 and a PCIe standard for the XM-NA3800. Both models feature a single 10/100/1000Mbps RJ-45 port for network connection.
- Data Transfer Rate:
- 10/100/1000Mbps for Half-Duplex mode.
- 20/200/2000Mbps for Full-Duplex mode.
- Network Media Support:
- 10Base-T: UTP Cat. 3, 4, 5 cable (Maximum 100m); EIA/TIA-568 100Ω STP (Maximum 100m).
- 100Base-TX: UTP Cat. 5, 5e cable (Maximum 100m); EIA/TIA-568 100Ω STP (Maximum 100m).
- 1000Base-T: UTP Cat. 5e, 6 cable (Maximum 100m).
- Jumbo Frame (XM-NA3500): Supports 7680 Bytes, which can improve network efficiency by reducing the number of frames processed.
- BootROM Slot (XM-NA3500): Indicates support for network boot functionalities.
- Flow Control: Implements IEEE 802.3x Flow Control for Full-Duplex mode, preventing data loss during periods of high network traffic.
- LEDs: Features a Link/Act LED indicator for monitoring network connection status and activity.
- Operating Environment:
- Operating Temperature: 0°C ~ 40°C (32°F ~ 104°F).
- Storage Temperature: -40°C ~ 70°C.
- Operating Humidity: 10% ~ 90% Non-Condensing.
- Storage Humidity: 5% ~ 90% Non-Condensing.
- Supported Operating Systems: Compatible with a wide range of Windows operating systems including Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10, as well as Linux.
- Emission (EMI): Complies with FCC and CE standards.
Usage Features:
- Plug-and-Play Installation (Hardware): The hardware installation involves straightforward steps: turning off the computer, opening the case, locating an available PCI/PCIe slot, removing the slot bracket, carefully inserting the adapter, securing it with a screw, reinstalling the case cover, and powering on the computer.
- Driver Installation: The device comes with a CD containing drivers and a user guide. For Windows 7, the driver installation can be initiated via an autorun program or manually through the Device Manager. The manual installation process involves right-clicking "Computer," selecting "Manage," navigating to "Device Manager," finding "Ethernet Controller" under "Other Devices," and then choosing "Update Driver Software" to browse for the drivers on the provided CD.
- Auto Negotiation: Automatically detects and adapts to the network speed (10/100/1000Mbps), simplifying setup and ensuring optimal performance with various network devices.
- Wake-on-LAN (WoL) and Remote Wake-up: Supports these features, allowing the computer to be powered on or woken up remotely over the network, which is beneficial for remote management and power saving.
- ACPI and PCI Power Management: Integrates with Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) and PCI power management standards for efficient power consumption.
- Crossover Detection & Auto-Correction: Automatically detects and corrects for crossover cables, eliminating the need for specific cable types and simplifying network setup.
- Standard and Low-Profile Chassis Support: The package includes a low-profile bracket, making the adapter suitable for installation in both standard and small form factor (low-profile) computer cases.
- LED Indicator: The Link/Act LED provides visual feedback on the network connection status. It lights up when a connection is established and glitters during data transmission and reception, allowing for quick troubleshooting and status checks.
Maintenance Features:
- Driver Updates: The manual emphasizes the importance of using the provided CD for driver installation and also outlines the process for updating drivers through the Windows Device Manager. Keeping drivers up-to-date is crucial for optimal performance and compatibility.
- Troubleshooting with LED: The Link/Act LED serves as a basic diagnostic tool. If the LED does not light up when connected to a network, it can indicate a cabling issue, a problem with the network port, or an issue with the adapter itself, guiding initial troubleshooting steps.
- Physical Installation: The design allows for easy physical installation and removal from the PCI/PCIe slot, facilitating maintenance or replacement if needed.
- Compatibility: Broad operating system support (Windows and Linux) ensures that the device can be maintained and used across various computing environments without significant compatibility hurdles.
- Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to FCC and CE standards indicates that the product meets certain quality and safety requirements, potentially reducing issues related to electromagnetic interference and ensuring reliable operation.
Need help?
To Next Page
General