3Com EtherLink
EtherLink PCI Network Interface Card User Guide
Troubleshooting the Network Connection 

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Troubleshooting the Network Connection

If you encounter problems with using the NIC or connecting to the network, check the table below for troubleshooting tips.

     

     

    CAUTION: Before inserting or removing the NIC from the PC, turn the PC power off and unplug the power cord.
     

    Tip

    Description

    Check the NIC installation

    • Make sure that you have run the preinstallation program, as described in Running the Preinstallation Program. This program must be run before installing the NIC in the PC.
    • Make sure that the NIC is installed correctly in a PCI slot. Check for specific hardware problems, such as broken traces or loose or broken solder connections.

    Check the network connection

    Check your PC BIOS

    • Make sure that you are running the latest BIOS for your PC. If your BIOS has not been upgraded in the previous 12 months, contact your PC manufacturer to obtain the current version of your BIOS software.

    (continued)

    Run the NIC diagnostic tests

    Run the NIC and Network Tests, as described in Running the NIC Diagnostics Tests.

    If the tests fail, replace the NIC with a known working NIC and run the tests again, using the same configuration settings as those used on the failed NIC. If the working NIC passes all tests, the original NIC is probably defective. For information on product repair, see Technical Support.

    Check the 3Com support databases

    Review the known problems and solutions found in the following areas:

    • 3Com Knowledgebase
    • 3Com NIC Help system
    • Release Notes and Frequently Asked Questions

    See Accessing 3Com Support Databases for instructions on using these databases.

    Download the latest NIC driver

    Download and install the latest NIC driver from:

    http://www.3com.com/

    Run the Clean Up Failed Installation program

    The Clean Up Failed Installation program is located on the EtherCD. See Cleaning Up a Failed Installation for instructions.