Settings for 3C509 Not Detected Correctly (121791)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 3.5
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server 3.5

This article was previously published under Q121791
3.50
WINDOWS
kbnetwork kbsetup kbfasttip

SYMPTOMS

When you upgrade or perform a new installation of Windows NT Workstation and Windows NT Server version 3.5 with a 3Com EtherLink III (3C509) adapter, Setup may not correctly detect the settings for the network card. If you continue with the installation and do not verify the settings, the following error message may appear when you start your computer:
At least one service or driver failed during system startup.


Event ID: 5003
Source: ELNK31
Type: Error
Description: Could not find an adapter.

The automatic detection of network adapters in Windows NT may alter the non-volatile memory (NV RAM) on the 3Com EtherLink III network adapter, which the 3Com network adapter Setup utility cannot correct in interactive mode.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, the following is recommended:

  1. In Windows NT version 3.5, remove all installed network software and the network adapter card driver.
  2. Boot to MS-DOS and use the 3Com EtherDisk utility version 3.0 (3C5X9CFG.EXE) by typing the following at the MS-DOS command prompt:

    3c5x9cfg configure /xcvr: X


    where X is TP, COAX or AUI. For additional valid configuration commands, type the following at the MS-DOS command prompt:

    3c5x9cfg configure /?


  3. In Windows NT version 3.5, manually select the network adapter driver. Do not select the "autodetect" function.
  4. Manually configure the network card with any setting (for IRQ, Base I/O Address and Tranceiver type). Then re-configure the network card with correct settings.
  5. Restart your computer.
The EtherLink III is manufactured by 3Com Corporation, a vendor independent of Microsoft; we make no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding this product's performance or reliability.

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:11/3/2003
Keywords:KB121791