Installing the Hardware: Broadcom NetXtreme^® 57XX User Guide

NOTE: This section applies only to add-in NIC models of Broadcom NetXtreme Gigabit Ethernet adapters.

System Requirements

Before you install a Broadcom NetXtreme Gigabit Ethernet adapter, verify that your computer meets the hardware and operating system requirements listed below:

Hardware Requirements

Pentium-based computer that meets operating system requirements
One open 32-bit or 64-bit PCI slot and/or one PCI Express slot
128-MB RAM (minimum)

Operating System Requirments

General

PCI v2.3 33/66 MHz Bus Interface
PCI Express v1.0a, x1 (or greater) Host Interface

Microsoft^® Windows^®

One of the following versions of Microsoft Windows:

Windows 2000 Server, Windows 2000 Advanced Server, or Windows Datacenter
Windows XP, Service Pack 2
Windows NT 4.0
Windows 98 Second Edition
Windows Me

Novell^® NetWare^®

One of the following versions of Novell NetWare: NetWare 4.2, NetWare 5.1, NetWare 6.0, or NetWare 6.5, with the latest support pack:

Linux^®

Although the adapter driver should work with many Linux® kernel versions and distributions, it has only been tested on Red Hat® AS 2.1 and RHEL 3.0 distributions for i386 (kernel version 2.4.x). Furthermore, the driver has only been tested as a loadable module.

Safety Precautions

WARNING: The adapter is being installed in a computer that operates with voltages that can be lethal. Before you open the computer case, observe the following precautions to protect yourself and to prevent damage to the computer components.

Remove any metallic objects or jewelry from your hands and wrists.
Use only insulated or nonconducting tools.
Verify that the computer is powered off and unplugged before you touch any internal components.
Install or remove adapters in a static-free environment. The use of a properly grounded wrist strap or other personal antistatic devices and an antistatic mat is strongly recommended.

Preinstallation Checklist

Verify that your computer meets the hardware and software requirements listed under System Requirements.
Verify that your computer is using the latest BIOS.
If your operating system is active, shut it down.
When the operating system shutdown is complete, turn off the power and unplug the power cord.
Remove the adapter from its shipping package and place it on an antistatic surface.
Check the adapter for visible signs of damage, particularly on the edge connector. Never attempt to install a damaged adapter.

Installing the Adapter

The following instructions apply to installing a Broadcom NetXtreme Gigabit Ethernet adapter (add-in NIC) in most computers. Refer to the manuals that were supplied with your computer for details about performing these tasks on your particular computer.

Review the Safety Precautions and Preinstallation Checklist.
Open the computer case and select any empty PCI slot or PCI Express slot, as appropriate. If you do not know how to identify a PCI slot or a PCI Express slot, refer to your computer documentation.
Remove the blank cover-plate from the slot that you selected.
Align the adapter connector edge with the PCI or PCI Express slot in the computer.

NOTE: The connector slot in a 32-bit PCI slot is shorter than in a 64-bit PCI slot. Although the adapter is designed to fit in either slot type, when installed in a 32-bit PCI slot, part of the adapter connector edge remains undocked, which is normal.

Applying even pressure at both corners of the adapter, push the adapter into the slot until it is firmly seated. When the adapter is properly seated, the adapter port connector is aligned with the slot opening, and the adapter faceplate is flush against the computer chassis.

CAUTION: Do not use excessive force when seating the adapter, as this may damage the computer or the adapter. If you have difficulty seating the adapter, remove it , realign it, and try again.

Secure the adapter with the adapter clip or screw.
Close the computer case and disconnect any personal antistatic devices.

Connecting the Network Cables

NOTE: Broadcom NetXtreme Gigabit Ethernet adapters support Automatic MDI Crossover (MDIX), which eliminates the need for crossover cables when connecting machines back-to-back. A straight-through Category 5 cable allows the machines to communicate when connected directly together.

Select an appropriate cable. Table 1 lists the cable requirements for connecting to 10/100/1000BASE-T ports:

Table 1. 10/100/1000BASE-T Cable Specifications


Port Type	Connector	Media	Maximum Distance
10BASE-T	RJ-45	Category 3, 4, or 5 unshielded twisted pairs (UTP)	100m (328 ft)
100/1000BASE-T¹	RJ-45	Category 5² UTP	100m (328 ft)
¹1000BASE-T signaling requires 4 twisted pairs of Category 5 balanced cabling, as specified in ISO/IEC 11801:1995 and ANSI/EIA/TIA-568-A (1995) and tested for additional performance using testing procedures defined in TIA/EIA TSB95. ²Category 5 is the minimum requirement. Category 5e and Category 6 are fully supported.

Connect one end of the cable to the RJ-45 connector on the adapter.
Connect the other end of the cable to an RJ-45 Ethernet network port.

NOTE: After the cable is properly connected at both ends, the port LEDs on the adapter should be functional. See Table 1: Network Link and Activity Indicated by the Port LEDs for a description of network link and activity indications.

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Installing the Hardware: Broadcom NetXtreme® 57XX User Guide