Ethernet support

Many different factors influence the capabilities of Ethernet. Some of these influences can come from the cabling and adapter type you use.

Limiting factors can be the capabilities of the hub or switch that you connect to, the frame size you are able to transmit and receive, and the type of connection you use.

• Ethernet terminology
  These terms are often used in reference to Ethernet networking.

• Ethernet capabilities
  Ethernet capabilities, such as line speed and duplex mode, can enhance your system's performance.

• Establishment of a physical connection to your network
  The first step to use Ethernet for System i is establishing a physical connection to your network. Having the correct settings and configurations for your system helps to ensure a successful connection.

• Hardware requirements for Ethernet
  System i products support many input/output adapters (IOAs). Find out what IOAs are supported and what capabilities each one has.

• LAN IOA addresses
  The input/output adapter (IOA) has a preset address (also known as the burned-in address or the manufacturer-assigned address). You have the option of setting the address for each IOA to an address of your choice.

• Ethernet frame format
  While tracing LAN communications, you might need to look at the transmitted frames. To understand the data that is contained in the frame, know how it is formatted.

• Types of Ethernet frames sent
  The Ethernet frame that your system receives and the Ethernet standard that you select in the line description govern the type of frame that your system sends.

• Maximum Ethernet frame sizes
  The largest frame size used during the connection process is controlled by the maximum frame size configurations of multiple items.

• Maximum LAN frame sizes
  The larger your frame size, the more data your system can put into it. Hence, you can increase your data throughput.

• LAN device connection
  The correct line and controller descriptions help you achieve successful connections.

• SNA connections to LAN protocols
  The system can connect SNA to a LAN protocol by using service access points (SAPs). Multiple SAPs enable you to have multiple connections between SNA and a LAN protocol, thus permitting multiple communication paths between independent applications.

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