3COM 3C996-SX
User Guide

Safety Precautions

Safety Precautions
Observe the following safety precautions. WARNING: The NIC is being installed in a system that operates with voltages that can be lethal. Before you remove the cover of your system, you must observe the following precautions to protect yourself and to prevent damage to the system components. I Remove any metallic objects or jewelry from your hands and wrists. I Use only insulated or nonconducting tools. I Verify that the system is powered OFF and unplugged before removing the cover. I Install or remove NICs only in a static-free environment. The use of a properly grounded wrist strap (or other personal anti-static device) and an anti-static mat are strongly recommended.

Pre-Installation Checklist
1 Check that your server meets the hardware and software requirements listed under �System Requirements� on page 7. 2 Verify that your system is using the latest BIOS. 3 Review the information in the release.txt file on the 3Com Installation CD for important information not available at the time this manual was created. NOTE: If you acquired the adapter software on a floppy disk or from a third-party support Web site, please check the appropriate source for the most recent information. 4 If your system is active, shut it down. I Under Windows 2000 If Windows 2000 is currently running, close all applications and select Start/Shut Down. When the window appears, select Shut Down from the pull-down options, and click OK. I Under Windows NT If Windows NT is currently running, close all applications and select Start/Shut Down. Shut down the computer. I Under NetWare If Novell NetWare is currently running, use the down command (NetWare 5) or the down and exit commands (NetWare 4) at the server_name prompt to gracefully shut down the server functions and reach the DOS prompt: server_name: down server_name: exit I Under Linux If Redhat Linux is currently running, close all applications and at the command prompt type init 0 to halt the machine. Once the machine is halted, you may have to turn off the power switch manually. 5 When system shut down is complete, turn the power off and unplug your system. 6 Holding the NIC card by the edges, remove it from its shipping package and place it on an anti-static surface. 7 Check the NIC for visible signs of damage, particularly on the edge connector. Never attempt to install any damaged NIC. If the NIC is damaged, report it to your supplier.
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