User Manual
6
TROUBLESHOOTING THE NIC
Interpreting the LEDs Diagnostic light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are located below the cable connector(s) 
on each NIC. The LEDs operate as follows:
If a LNK LED indicates a problem, check the following:
■ Ensure that the network hub or switch and the cable connecting to the NIC 
comply with the specifications appropriate for the network connection.
■ Ensure that the hub or switch is powered on.
To access a database of technical information that can help you diagnose and 
solve NIC installation, configuration, and upgrade problems, go to:
http://knowledgebase.3com.com
LED State Meaning
10 LNK (link) On If drivers are installed, the 10BASE-T connection is active.
If drivers are not installed, the NIC is receiving power.
Off Something is preventing the connection between the NIC and 
the hub or switch.
Blinking The cable polarity is reversed. Try a different network cable or 
contact the system administrator.
100 LNK (link) On If drivers are installed, the 100BASE-TX connection is active.
If drivers are not installed, the NIC is receiving power.
Off Something is preventing the connection between the NIC and 
the hub or switch.
Blinking The cable polarity is reversed. Try a different network cable or 
contact the system administrator.
10/100 LNK 
(model 
3C982-TXM 
only)
On If drivers are installed, the 10/100BASE-T connection is active.
If drivers are not installed, the NIC is receiving power.
Off Something is preventing the connection between the NIC and 
the hub or switch.
Blinking The cable polarity is reversed. Try a different network cable or 
contact the system administrator.
ACT (activity) Blinking Network traffic is present.
Steady Heavy network traffic is present.
Off No network traffic is present.










