The X-MEDIA® XM-NA3821 is a Dual Port Gigabit PCIe x1 Network Adapter designed to provide high-speed, reliable network connectivity for computers. This adapter is a cost-effective and highly integrated solution for upgrading network environments from 10/100Mbps to 1000Mbps (Gigabit Ethernet). It is fully compliant with a range of IEEE standards, ensuring broad compatibility and robust performance.
Function Description:
The primary function of the XM-NA3821 is to enable a computer to connect to a Gigabit Ethernet network via a PCI Express x1 slot. It features two RJ-45 ports, allowing for dual-port connectivity. The adapter supports NWAY Auto Negotiation, which automatically detects and adjusts to the network speed (10/100/1000Mbps) and duplex mode (Half-Duplex or Full-Duplex). For 10/100Mbps connections, it supports both Half-Duplex and Full-Duplex transfer modes, while for 1000Mbps, it operates in Full-Duplex mode. This automatic negotiation simplifies installation and ensures optimal performance with various network devices.
The adapter also incorporates several advanced features to enhance network efficiency and system performance. These include support for Jumbo Frames up to 9.5K bytes, which can reduce CPU utilization and improve throughput for large data transfers. It supports IPv4 and IPv6 protocols, ensuring compatibility with modern network infrastructures. Furthermore, it offloads UDP, TCP, and IP checksum calculations from the host CPU, freeing up system resources for other tasks. The inclusion of Next Generation VMDq (8VMs) support is beneficial for virtualized environments, improving network performance for virtual machines. Wake-on-LAN (WoL) and remote wake-up support allow the computer to be powered on remotely, which is useful for system administration and energy saving. Crossover Detection & Auto-Correction simplifies cable management by automatically detecting and correcting for straight-through or crossover Ethernet cables.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model No.: XM-NA3821
- Interface: PCI-Express 1-Lane (x1) Interface (32-bit PCIe x1 Standard)
- Chipset: Intel JL82575EB
- Ports: Dual Port 1GbE RJ-45 (2x 10/100/1000Mbps RJ-45 ports)
- Standards Compliance: IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3ab, 802.3x, 802.1q, 802.1p
- PCI Express Compliance: PCI Express host interface specification v2.0 with 2.5GT/s BUS width
- PCI Bus Power Management: Complies with PCI Bus Power Management Interface specification Rev 1.1
- 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)
- 10Base-T: EIA/TIA-568 100Ω STP (Maximum 100m)
- 100Base-TX: UTP Cat. 5, 5e cable (Maximum 100m)
- 100Base-TX: EIA/TIA-568 100Ω STP (Maximum 100m)
- 1000Base-T: UTP Cat. 5e, 6 cable (Maximum 100m)
- Jumbo Frame Support: Up to 9.5K Bytes
- Flow Control: IEEE 802.3x Flow Control (Full Duplex)
- Layer 2 Functions: IEEE 802.3x Flow Control, IEEE 802.1q VLAN
- 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: Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10; Linux
- Emission (EMI): FCC; CE
- Chassis Support: Standard and Low-Profile Chassis (low profile bracket included)
Usage Features:
The XM-NA3821 is designed for straightforward installation and use.
- Easy Upgrade: Provides an easy way to upgrade a computer's network capabilities to Gigabit Ethernet, making it suitable for older systems or those needing additional network ports.
- Auto-Negotiation: Automatically detects and adapts to network speed and duplex mode, simplifying configuration and ensuring compatibility with existing network infrastructure.
- Dual Ports: Offers two Gigabit Ethernet ports, which can be used for various purposes such as connecting to multiple networks, creating a redundant link, or for specific server applications.
- PCIe x1 Interface: Compatible with any PCI Express x1, x4, x8, or x16 slot, offering broad compatibility with most modern motherboards.
- LED Indicators: Features Link/Act LEDs for each port, providing visual feedback on network connection status and activity.
- 100Mbps Link/ACT LED: Lights up when a 100Mbps connection is established, glitters during data transmission/reception.
- 1000Mbps Link/ACT LED: Lights up when a 1000Mbps connection is established, glitters during data transmission/reception.
- Note: For 10Mbps connections, neither LED will blink.
- Low-Profile Bracket: Includes a low-profile bracket, making it suitable for installation in small form factor (SFF) computer cases as well as standard chassis.
- Wake-on-LAN (WoL): Supports WoL functionality, allowing the computer to be remotely powered on, which is convenient for remote management and power saving.
Maintenance Features:
- Driver Support: Comes with a CD containing drivers for various Windows operating systems (Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10) and Linux, ensuring broad compatibility and ease of installation. The manual provides clear instructions for both initial driver installation and updating existing drivers.
- Up-to-Date Information: Users are encouraged to visit the manufacturer's website (www.x-mediausa.com) for the most up-to-date information, including potentially newer drivers or firmware.
- Packaging Retention: Users are advised to save the original packaging material for future reference, especially in case of damage or missing items, to facilitate contact with the seller.
- Troubleshooting: The LED indicators provide a quick visual check for network connectivity issues, aiding in basic troubleshooting.
- Robust Design: The adapter is designed to comply with various environmental conditions, including a wide range of operating and storage temperatures and humidity levels, contributing to its reliability and longevity.
In summary, the X-MEDIA® XM-NA3821 is a versatile and robust dual-port Gigabit Ethernet adapter that offers a reliable and high-performance solution for enhancing network connectivity in a variety of computing environments, from personal desktops to server applications. Its compliance with industry standards, advanced features, and ease of installation make it a practical choice for users seeking to upgrade or expand their network capabilities.