DIGITUS DN-10132 Dual-Port Gigabit Ethernet PCIe Network Card User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your DIGITUS DN-10132 Dual-Port Gigabit Ethernet PCIe Network Card. This card is designed to add two Gigabit Ethernet ports to a server or workstation via a single PCI Express slot. It features an integrated Intel chipset and supports various network protocols and functions for versatile use in virtual machine environments or for router/firewall setups.

Image 1.1: Overview of the DIGITUS DN-10132 Dual-Port Gigabit Ethernet PCIe Network Card.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• PCI Express Dual Gigabit Ethernet Card, 2 ports
• Low-profile slot bracket
• Driver CD
• Quick Installation Guide (QIG)

Image 2.1: The included low-profile bracket, allowing installation in compact computer cases.

3. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to install the DIGITUS DN-10132 network card into your computer system.

1. Power Off and Disconnect: Before beginning, ensure your computer is completely powered off and disconnected from the power source.
2. Open Computer Case: Open the computer case to access the motherboard's PCI Express slots.
3. Select PCI Express Slot: Locate an available PCI Express X1 slot or higher (X4, X8, X16) on your motherboard.
4. Remove Slot Cover: Remove the metal slot cover from the back of the computer case corresponding to the chosen PCIe slot.
5. Install Network Card: Carefully align the network card with the chosen PCIe slot and press it firmly until it is securely seated.
6. Secure Card: Secure the network card with a screw or the case's retention mechanism. If installing in a compact case, replace the standard bracket with the provided low-profile bracket before installation.
7. Close Computer Case: Close the computer case and reconnect all cables.
8. Power On and Driver Installation: Power on your computer. Insert the provided driver CD and follow the on-screen instructions to install the necessary drivers for your operating system. Alternatively, download the latest drivers from the DIGITUS support website.

Image 3.1: The network card correctly installed in a PCI Express slot within a computer chassis.

4. Operating Instructions

Once the DIGITUS DN-10132 network card is installed and drivers are loaded, it will function as a standard network interface.

• Connecting Network Cables: Connect standard RJ45 Ethernet cables to the two available ports on the card. The card supports 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds.
• Network Configuration: Configure network settings (IP address, DNS, etc.) through your operating system's network settings. The card supports IPv4 and IPv6 protocols.
• Advanced Features:
  • VLAN Support: The card supports IEEE 802.1q VLANs, allowing for network segmentation.
  • Flow Control: IEEE 802.3x Flow Control is supported for efficient data transfer.
  • Jumbo Frames: Supports jumbo frames up to 9.5K for improved network performance with large data packets.
  • Receive Side Scaling (RSS): Enhances network processing efficiency by distributing network load across multiple CPU cores.
  • Virtual Machine Device Queues (VMDq): Optimizes network performance for virtualized environments by offloading data sorting and copying tasks from the hypervisor.

Image 4.1: The two RJ45 ports for network cable connection.

5. Maintenance

The DIGITUS DN-10132 network card is designed for reliable operation with minimal maintenance.

• Driver Updates: Periodically check the DIGITUS website for updated drivers to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the latest operating system versions.
• Physical Inspection: Occasionally inspect the card for dust accumulation, especially on the heatsink. Use compressed air to gently clean if necessary, ensuring the computer is powered off and disconnected.
• Environmental Conditions: Ensure the computer operates within recommended temperature and humidity ranges to prevent component degradation.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your DIGITUS DN-10132 network card, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Network Connectivity:
  • Verify that the Ethernet cables are securely connected to both the network card and the network device (router/switch).
  • Check the network status indicators (LEDs) on the RJ45 ports. If they are off, ensure the card is properly seated in the PCIe slot and drivers are installed.
  • Confirm that network settings in your operating system are correctly configured (IP address, subnet mask, gateway, DNS).
  • Try a different Ethernet cable or port on your network device.
• Slow Network Speed:
  • Ensure your network infrastructure (cables, router/switch) supports Gigabit Ethernet speeds.
  • Update the network card drivers to the latest version.
  • Check for network congestion or other devices consuming bandwidth on your network.
• Card Not Detected by OS:
  • Ensure the card is fully seated in the PCI Express slot.
  • Verify that the correct drivers for your operating system have been installed from the provided CD or DIGITUS website.
  • Try installing the card in a different PCI Express slot if available.
  • Check your system's Device Manager (Windows) or equivalent to see if the card is listed, even with an error.
• System Instability After Installation:
  • Ensure your system's power supply is adequate for all installed components.
  • Verify that the card is compatible with your motherboard's PCI Express version.
  • Reinstall drivers or try an older driver version if available.

7. Technical Specifications

8. Warranty Information

The DIGITUS DN-10132 network card comes with a 2-year legal manufacturer's warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, refer to the documentation provided with your product or visit the official DIGITUS website.

9. Support and Contact

For further assistance, technical support, or to download the latest drivers, please visit the official DIGITUS website or contact their customer service.

• Official Website: Assmann Solutions Overview (Parent company of DIGITUS)
• Brand Store: DIGITUS Amazon Store