Microsoft MN-130 - Manual (Page 9)

Chapter 1: Introduction 5
About Ethernet Connections
Ethernet is the most commonly used wired network protocol, with
connection speeds of 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, or higher. Your USB or
notebook adapter will transmit data at either 10 or 100 Mbps. The
adapter’s auto-negotiation feature automatically determines the rate
of your network connections and uses the fastest speed available.
As you set up your network, keep in mind that power outlets,
fluorescent lights, power supplies, and coiled or extra-long cables
can interfere with Ethernet transmission and also
produce interference.
Use Ethernet cables to connect your adapter to devices on your
network. Any Ethernet-compatible network device will have one or
more Ethernet ports. Some examples of network devices are:
O Routers, gateways, or base stations, such as the Microsoft
Broadband Networking Wired Base Station
O Broadband modems
O Computers with Ethernet adapters
O Ethernet switches and hubs
Network components such as your adapter are connected to one
another by Ethernet cables. An Ethernet cable resembles a phone
cord, but has larger connectors at each end. To determine whether
a cable is an Ethernet or phone cable, you can count the number of
wires or contacts visible in the connector at either end of the cable.
Ethernet (RJ-45) connectors and cables contain eight wires, and
phone (RJ-11) connectors contain either four or six wires.
RJ-11 Telephone
(4 or 6 wires) RJ-45 Ethernet
(8 wires)