### TechNote

Number: 00103-03
Date: April 1994

## Installing the Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode

### 1 The Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode

The Madge Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode is designed to be compatible with all EISA-based computers. It cannot be used in computers based on the ISA bus.

### 2 Installing the Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode in your computer

The Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode has no switches to be set; the configuration is performed by software using the reference diskette supplied with your computer. You must first install the Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode in your computer and then run the configuration utility.

#### Handling precautions

- Do not remove the Ringnode from its protective antistatic packaging until you are ready to use it.

- Discharge the static electricity from your body by touching a protective grounding device or the metal chassis of your computer before handling the Ringnode.

- In dry climates or other environments where static electricity is prevalent, wear a grounding strap on your wrist before handling the Ringnode or removing the cover of your computer.

- Always handle the Ringnode carefully by its edges and avoid touching any of the components or connections.

#### Installing the Ringnode

Always turn the power off before installing or removing any adapter cards.

1. Remove the cover of your computer.

2. Select an empty EISA expansion slot in which to install the Ringnode. You must use a bus master slot: see the documentation supplied with your computer for details.

3. Remove the blanking bracket. Keep its screw in a safe place.

4. Push the Ringnode firmly into its socket. Do not force it in. If it does not slide in easily, it may be misaligned.

5. Secure the Ringnode in place with the retaining screw.

6. Replace the cover of your computer.

### 3 Configuring the Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode

The Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode is configured using the reference diskette which should be supplied with your computer. The process consists of two steps: first copy the !MDG0002.CFG file from the Madge Install diskette onto your reference diskette, and then run the automatic configuration option.

For further information about the configuration options refer to the !MDG0002.CFG file which is in a readable form.

The default setting for the ring speed is Ringnode disabled. You must change this setting to match the speed of your ring before you can use your Ringnode.

You have the choice between level- and edge-sensitive interrupts. Level-sensitive is recommended. Read the !MDG0002.CFG file for information about the two types of interrupt.

Note that in the EISA bus the interrupt number is dependent upon the expansion slot. The configuration procedure may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and model of your EISA computer.

#### Cabling media

The Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode is designed to work with either shielded twisted pair (STP) or unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cabling.

See the Madge Smart LAN Support Software Installation Guide for important recommendations about the use of UTP cabling.

The end bracket of the Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode incorporates two data connectors: the upper connector is a 9-pin D-type for use with STP cables; the lower connector is a type RJ45 for use with UTP. The Ringnode's circuitry includes a media filter for unshielded twisted pair, which removes the need for an external filter.

It is essential that the correct cabling medium is selected during configuration of the Ringnode.

### 4 Preparing to run diagnostics

1. Connect the Ringnode to a working token ring network consisting of at least one Ringhub (or multi-station access unit), with a data cable to connect it to your computer. Connect the data cable to the appropriate connector (STP or UTP) on your Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode.

2. Boot up in the normal way. If your computer automatically enters an application program, exit from it and return to DOS. Run the Ringnode diagnostics (see Chapter 2 of the Madge Smart LAN Support Software Installation Guide) to verify that your Smart 16/4 EISA Ringnode is working correctly.