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Network Adapters
Do I Need a Network Adapter?
Yes! To access URHnet or Orchard Downs internet, you need to have a 10baseT
compatible network adapter (also known as a network card). A network adapter is a
device that allows your computer to connect to a computer network, much like the modem
you may use when you are at home. Unlike a modem, which uses phone lines, URHnet & OD inaternet are
high-speed networks which uses different cabling and equipment.
Reminder: Wireless internet is not allowed in dorm rooms with the exception of Orchard Downs.
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To determine whether or not you have a network adapter installed in your computer,
look for a connection on the back of your computer that looks like the one in the red
box in the picture to the right. The connection is larger than a phone or modem
connection (outlined in blue in the picture to the right for comparison), and will
often be marked with an icon that looks like computers connected together. If you do
have one of these connections, you should be ready to connect to the internet.
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If your computer does not already have a network adapter, you will need to purchase
one before being able to connect to the internet. 10baseT network adapters are available at
many computer retailers, and basic ones usually do not cost more than $30. Some retailers
and manufacturers will install the new card for you as well, though they may charge for
this service. Housing computer services staff do not install network adapters.
WARNING:(For all non-Orchard Downs residents) When purchasing a network adapter, make sure
that it supports 10baseT connections. URHnet runs at 10 Mbps
half-duplex, and adapters that do not support 10baseT will not work on URHnet.
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Purchasing a Network Adapter for a Desktop Computer
There are four main types of network adapters for use with desktop machines: Integrated,
PCI, ISA, and USB.
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Integrated network adapters are attached directly to your computer's motherboard.
These adapters are becoming more and more common, so if you have a newer computer, it is
likely that you have one of this type of adapter. If you have an integrated network adapter
(see above for instructions on finding it) you do not need to purchase an additional adapter
to use URHnet or Orchard Downs Internet.
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Integrated network adapter
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PCI network adapters are the most common type of network adapter you will find
available for sale. This type of adapter comes on a card that needs to be installed inside
your computer. Almost all computers contain PCI expansion slots. To determine if your computer
can support a PCI-based network adapter, open the computer case and look for a series of slots
on the large circuit board you see there (motherboard). PCI slots are usually white in color,
though some motherboard companies will use different colors. PCI slots are shorter in length
than ISA slots (see below).
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PCI network adapter
PCI expansion slot
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USB network adapters, unlike PCI and ISA network adapters, are external and do not
need to be installed inside your computer. Instead, they connect to a USB port on your computer
(a small rectangular connection approximately 1 cm long). Generally, all new computers come with USB ports.
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USB network adapter
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Purchasing a Network Adapter for a Laptop Computer
There are three main types of network adapters for use with laptop machines: Integrated,
PCMCIA, and USB.
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Integrated network adapters are attached directly to your computer's motherboard,
and there will be a network port somewhere on your laptop case. These adapters are becoming
more and more common, so if you have a newer laptop, it is likely that you have an integrated adapter.
If you use a docking station, there may be a network connection on it, as well.
If you have an integrated network adapter (see above for instructions on finding it) you do not need
to purchase an additional adapter to use the internet.
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Integrated network adapter
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PCMCIA network adapters come on small cards approximately the same size as a credit card.
They fit into a slot on the side of your laptop. PCMCIA network adapters sometimes have an additional
part, known as a "dongle" that connects to the card, and then the network cable connects to the dongle.
The adapter shown here does not have a dongle.
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PCMCIA network adapter
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USB network adapters will work for laptop computers as well as desktop machines, as long
as your laptop has a USB connection. Most newer laptops have at least one of these connections. The
adapter will plug into the USB port, a rectangular slot a little more than a centimeter long, and will have a
port on the other end to plug the network cable into.
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USB network adapter
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Installing a Network Adapter
Due to the varied types, brands, and models of network adapters available, we cannot provide detailed instructions
for installing your particular network adapter. However, the manufacturer can, and we suggest following their
instructions when installing your network adapter. The process is not difficult, and should not take more than a
few minutes.
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