Hi!

I am about to set up a network with NT 4.0 server, and I start it from very beginning. Network should connect server (pentium 133, 32 MB RAM - I will buy it soon) with three 386/dx-40 with 4 MB RAM, two 486 dx-2/66 with 8 and 16 MB RAM, and one pentium 133 with 32 MB RAM. The server is file server only, for bookkeeping company, and software is written in FoxPro for DOS 2.6. What I can’t knew is how fast this network must be, and what traffic is expected on wires, is it necessary for server to be a pentium etc. I have been suggested to use UTP cable, and HUB.

Asking my friends, reading computer magazines I find out two good network equipment producer with different quality and prices. First is SMC and Second is D-link. Here is their equivalent models:

Model Price Model Price
ISA SMC8416T 99$ DE-220T 37$
PCI SMC8421T 133$ DE-530CD 73$
HUB SMC3608-TC 240$ DE-809TP(TC) 160$

The difference in price (when I buy a quantities what I need) is about 500$. SMC have a better quality and worst price, but maybe d-link models will be sufficient. But, how should I knew. The best idea will be to see some tests in computer magazines (if someone knew where I can find them I will appreciate this), but if someone have experience with this models I will be vary grateful if he say something about them.

Thanks in advance.

Zoran


Zoran Ljubisic
powersoft@bj.tel.hr