MicroNet Technology Micronet EtherFast 10/100Mbps Switch SP616R - Manual (Page 11)

10
Appendix
A. Fast Ethernet Technology
The growing importance of LANs and the increasing complexity of
desktop computing applications are fueling the need for high
performance networks. A number of high-speed LAN technologies
have been proposed to provide greater bandwidth and improve
client/server response times. Among them, 100BASE-TX (Fast
Ethernet) provides a non-disruptive, smooth evolution from the
current 10BASE-T technology. The non-disruptive and smooth
evolution nature, and the dominating potential market base,
virtually guarantees cost effective and high performance Fast
Ethernet solutions in the years to come.
100Mbps Fast Ethernet is a new standard specified by the IEEE
802.3 LAN committee. It is an extension of the 10Mbps Ethernet
standard with the ability to transmit and receive data at 100Mbps,
while maintaining the CSMA/CD Ethernet protocol. Since the
Switch is compatible with all 10Mbps Ethernet environments, it
provides a straightforward upgrade and takes advantage of the
existing investment in hardware, software, and personnel training.
B. Switching Technology
Another approach to pushing beyond the limits of Ethernet
technology is the development of switching technology. A switch
bridges and transmits Ethernet packets at the MAC address level
of the Ethernet protocol, among connected Ethernet or Fast
Ethernet LAN segments.