[KLUG Members] Re: Home File Server: e-smith?

[Bryan J. Smith]

On Sun, 2002-04-14 at 22:18, Mike Williams wrote:
> If this thing is going to be a dedicated file server you might want to look 
> at a server-quality NIC.  Something from 3Com, maybe, or one of the latest 
> Intels.  Could be my own prejudices showing, but I don't know that I'd 
> trust a Realtec to heavy use like that.

I agree.  RealTek NICs don't do full duplex and seem to have a bit of a
CPU load.

But you'd be surprised how well cheap Tulips (2114x-series) work. 
Better yet, try to track down a NIC with an original, Digital 21143 ASIC
on-board (I still see them sold occasionally).  The 21143 was designed
for servers whereas most Tulips are based on the more "generic" 21140[A]
logic.

I'm hesitant to recommend Intel ever since I had to yank a i82558
(original EEPRO/100+ series) out of a production server because of
transmitter issues.  Yes, I know Intel now maintains their own, non-GPL,
but OSS, Linux drivers, but it still smarts.  ;-P

-- Bryan

-- 
The USDOJ v. Microsoft trial will result in unconditional surrender.
No matter who wins, the consumer will be subject to the victor's
"terms."  Which is worse?  Clueless government or clueless monopoly?
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Bryan J. Smith, SmithConcepts, Inc.        mailto:b.j.smith@ieee.org
Engineers and IT Professionals          http://www.SmithConcepts.com