What is Computer Network Card?

A network card is an expansion card which installs into a computer and enables that computer to physically connect to a local area network. The most common form of network card in current use is the Ethernet Card. Other types of network cards include wireless network cards and Token Ring network cards. Ethernet network cards most often use RJ-45 jacks. Wireless network cards usually have no external connections other than a possible antenna jack. Other terms for network card include network adapter, network interface card and NIC.

A network interface controller (NIC) is a hardware device that handles an interface to a computer network and allows a network capable device to access that network. The NIC has a ROM chip that contains a unique number. The MAC address burned into it. The MAC address identifies the device uniquely on the LAN.







Related Keywords:
          Using Network Cards in Computers
          Network Cards in Laptops
          Install Network Cards In Computer
          Local Area Network (LAN) Network Cards

Embedded And Add-in Devices

An embedded system is a special-purpose computer system designed to perform one or a few dedicated functions often with real-time computing constraints. It is usually embedded as part of a complete device including hardware and mechanical parts. It ranges from portable devices such as digital watches and MP4 players, to large stationary installations like traffic lights, factory controllers, or the systems controlling nuclear power plants.