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SMC Networks Ethernet ISA Network Cards User Manual

Page 36

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Broadcast

The process of sending a message to all stations on a network.

Collision

Condition in which two packets transmitted over a medium
interfere with each other. Their interference makes both unin-
telligible. The transmitting devices have to halt transmission for
a random period of time before trying to send data again. Note
that collisions do not occur on full-duplex connections.

Driver

Program that enables the network operating system to commu-
nicate with LAN cards.

Frame

Group of bits that include data plus control information.
Generally refers to a link layer (layer 2) protocol.

I/O Address

Input/output address; starting address for data input and output.

IEEE 802.3 standard

Standard developed by the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers) for physical and electrical connections in
local area networks.

Interrupt

Signal that causes a momentary switch of control from program
to operating system when input or output is required.

Loopback

Diagnostic test in which a signal is transmitted across a medium
while sending device waits for its return.

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LOSSARY

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