IBM 86H2117 Auto LANStreamer 16Mb/s 16/4 Token Ring Micro Channel Network Adapter for RS6000

Product Description

The IBM 86H2117, also known as the Auto LANStreamer, is a high-performance network adapter designed for IBM's powerful RS6000 series of workstations and servers. This adapter utilizes Token Ring technology, a robust and deterministic networking protocol known for its reliability in environments where predictable network performance is critical. It operates at a maximum speed of 16 Megabits per second (Mb/s) and is also backward compatible with 4 Mb/s Token Ring networks, offering flexibility in deployment. This adapter connects to the RS6000 system via a Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus slot, which was a proprietary bus developed by IBM for its PS/2 and RISC System/6000 product lines. The 'Auto' in its name likely refers to automatic speed negotiation or configuration features. The 'LANStreamer' designation suggests its capability for high-throughput data streaming over the network, making it suitable for demanding applications such as file sharing, client-server operations, and multimedia streaming within an enterprise setting. For organizations that relied on or continue to maintain Token Ring infrastructure, particularly within an IBM RS6000 environment, the 86H2117 adapter was a critical component for network connectivity. Its specific design for the RS6000 platform ensures optimal integration and performance, leveraging the capabilities of both the adapter and the host system. This adapter represents a piece of networking history, highlighting the prevalence and advantages of Token Ring technology in specific enterprise applications during its era.