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Chapter 1
Introduction
Fast Ethernet Technology
The growing importance of LANs and the increasing complexity
of desktop computing applications are fueling the needs for high
performance networks. A number of high-speed LAN
technologies are proposed or available to provide greater
bandwidth and improve client/server response times. Among
them, Fast Ethernet, or 100Base-T, provides a non-disruptive,
smooth evolution from the current 10Base-T technology, that by
statistics, is installed in over 70% of LANs worldwide. The non-
disruptive and smooth evolution nature, and the dominating
potential market base, virtually guarantee cost effective and high
performance Fast Ethernet solutions in the years to come.
100Base-T is an IEEE standard for a 100Mbps version of 10Base-
1 -1
T. As Table Chapter
shows, 100Base-T is essentially
10Base-T, only faster. It provides 10 times the performance of
10Base-T for less than twice the price. Like 10Base-T, it uses the
same CSMA/CD access method with a protocol standard proven
by over 70% of installed LANs over the last 20 years.
Except for reducing the "bit time" by a factor of 10 from the
CSMA/CD MAC of the 10Base-T, 100Base-T uses the same
packet format, packet length, error control, and management
information.
As part of the 100Base-T, the media specifications - 100Base-TX,
T4, FX - further enables users to retain their existing cabling
infrastructure while migrating to Fast Ethernet.
7
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