Gorilla Geeks / ResNet

Buying a Network Card

Purchasing a network card can be difficult. There are several companies that sell desktop network cards of varying quality. The issue gets further compounded by the different types of network cards (phone line, wireless, 10, 10/100, 10/100/1000, etc.).

To connect to the PSU ResNet, you will need a 10/100baseT network card and a Cat5 cable with RJ-45 ends. For wireless connectivity, you will need a 802.11g (Or Wireless-G) capable wireless card. Most of the new Apple laptops come equipped with this already. Many PC laptops also come standard with this, but be sure to check when purchasing a new laptop. This is generally not included in the standard PC desktop setup. For PC desktops, you will need a either a PCI or USB wireless card.

These types of cards are very common and can be found at many stores including Wal-Mart, CompUSA, Best Buy, Circuit City, Office Depot, Office Max, etc. Pricing is usually very competitive on network cards so shop around for the best price/brand combination you can find.

Pittsburg State University uses 3Com 905B (or 905C) network cards in all faculty/staff computers that are not shipped with a NIC installed. We have seen a relatively low occurrence of problems from 3Com network cards. They are slightly more expensive than their competitors. ResNet staff members have had good experiences with Netgear and Linksys cards as well.