Ethernet 100Base-T
Ethernet 100Base-T (also referred to as 100Base-TX or Fast Ethernet) is an extension of the 10Base-T standard for increased data rate that multimedia intensive applications require.
Physically, 100Base-T is similar to 10Base-T. However, there are restrictions on material and equipment selection that must be adhered to in order for 100Base-T to operate properly. Also, there are limitations on the network size
Note: Even if you do not plan to install 100Base-T Ethernet initially, it is strongly recommended that all new 10Base-T network installations be designed for 100Base-T compatibility. This permits future upgrade without the expense of rewiring.
This section shows the assembly, mounting, wiring, and power-up sequence of the hardware and wiring that may be used in an Ethernet 100BASE-T LAN. It is not intended to explain Ethernet and its many possible configurations.
Before installing any Ethernet component, pay particular attention to the individual warnings about accessibility and protection of each piece of hardware.
Hardware Requirements
Ethernet 100BASE-T is only available on the following NCR retail platforms:
| • | NCR 7452/7453: Ethernet on the processor board (AMD Controller) |
| • | NCR 7401/7454: Ethernet on the processor board (Intel Controller) |
The 7401/7454 terminals can be connected to either 100Base T or 10Base T networks. The speed is selected automatically through an auto-negotiation process. If the hub or other device connected to the terminal does not support auto-negotiation, then the terminal may not select the correct operating speed. In this case, you must manually select the correct speed using the appropriate driver utilities for the terminal operating system.
Note: The 7401/7454 terminals have link integrity LEDs and 10/100 Mb/s speed LEDs that are used to determine proper link connection.
If you want to use other types of terminals than those listed above, then you must use Ethernet adapters that comply to the IEEE 802.3u standard. All adapter boards must have a PCI interface.
Category 5 Wiring
In order to use 100Base T Ethernet, all cabling must be rated EIA/TIA 568, Category 5. This cable has improved attenuation and crosstalk characteristics compared with traditional 10Base T cabling, which is usually Category 3. Category 5 cable is labeled on its outer jacket.
Note: In addition to the cable, all jacks, patch panels, and tap boxes must also be Category 5 rated.
Category 3 wiring, sometimes called voice grade, exists in many existing 10Base T installations, but does not support 100Base T.