F/C 2720/2722 FDDI VS. F/C 2724/2723 FDDI

ITEM: RTA000028908



We understand (but haven't seen anything in writing) that the new               
F/C 2724/2723 FDDI cards are functionally equivalent and have same              
performance and same interfaces as the 2720/2722 cards (e.g., the               
bypass switch interface).  We understand that the difference is                 
the card form factor and commonality w/ PS/2 hence lower cost.                  
                                                                                
If this is the case I have a bunch of outstanding orders I've got               
to get revised.                                                                 
                                                                                
Can you confirm or deny this?                                                   
                                                                                
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A: My understanding is that the new cards are functionally equivalent.          
The PS/2 form factor cards:                                                     
    - have a larger ribbon connector to the xcard                              
    - xcard has same type of larger connector                                   
    - can plug in cable one way on primary                                      
    - card is smaller (chips on both sides)                                     
    - fiber has a different optical transceiver                                 
    - Copper has a shielded pair transceiver                                    
With 3.2.3 the device driver has added function which allows a user to be       
a "LAN Manager". The transmission of SMT frames and the reception of            
non-LLC frames has been enabled in the driver. This added function              
allows the "LAN Manager" to reside on the 6000.                                 
                                                                                
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In summary:                                                                     
All of the statements included in the above answer are correct.  The new        
PS/2 form factor cards do require a new device driver which is available        
in  AIX 3.2.3 Extended Support.  The cards will not work without this          
driver.                                                                         
As stated in the Announcement Letter 192-271 dated 10/20/92, " In               
addition  to AIX/6000 version 3.2.2, these new FDDI adapters require the        
installation of the AIX/6000 version 3.2.3 Extended Support programming         
feature and feature #4967 ordered separately.                                   
These new FDDI adapters ARE the same as used in the PS/2.                       
                                                                                
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This item was created from library item Q618488      SG145                      
                                                                                
Additional search words:                                                        
ARISC CUSTORG FDDI IX JAN93 RISC SG145 VS 2720 2722 2723 2724                   
                                                                               


WWQA: ITEM: RTA000028908 ITEM: RTA000028908
Dated: 11/1996 Category: RISCTCP
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