Configuring the Gigabit Ethernet controller

The Ethernet controllers are integrated on the system board. They provide an interface for connecting to a 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, or 1 Gbps network and provide full-duplex (FDX) capability, which enables simultaneous transmission and reception of data on the network. If the Ethernet ports in the server support auto-negotiation, the controllers detect the data-transfer rate (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, or 1000BASE-T) and duplex mode (full-duplex or half-duplex) of the network and automatically operate at that rate and mode.

By default the server has enabled Ethernet 1 and Ethernet 2. Ethernet 3 and Ethernet 4 can be enabled by the Features on Demand (FoD). Please note that the server may need to be restarted to activate the feature. Meanwhile, when switching from dedicated mode (Ethernet 2) to shared mode (Ethernet 1), followed by the activation of Ethernet 3 and Ethernet 4 via the Features on Demand (FoD) or vice versa, remember to first unplug and subsequently plug back the power cable or cables to the server (power cycle). For more information on Features on Demand (FoD), including instructions for automating the activation and installation of the activation key by using IBM ToolsCenter or IBM Director, see the IBM System x Features on Demand User's Guide at the Lenovo Features on Demand website under the Help section.

You do not have to set any jumpers or configure the controllers. However, you must install a device driver to enable the operating system to address the controllers. For device drivers and information about configuring the Ethernet controllers or to find updated information about configuring the controllers, see the Lenovo Support Portal.