NIC, LAN 10/100 ethernet, ACR, CNR &Soundblaster!

[determined2build]

Hi,

I want to build my first computer and am stuck on the motherboard. One problems is CNR vs ACR vs onboard LAN 10/100 Ethernet vs sound.

For the networking, I am on cable modem for the internet, which I understand is a LAN. Also, I will want to "network" my current computer which has an SMC ethernet adaptor, to my new computer.

1) Will onboard LAN 10/100 ethernet satisfy my needs? Will a separate NIC be somehow better or faster? If the NIC is better, should I go with ACR or CNR or is just a regular PCI network card okay? (I won't be fussy about speeds between my 2 computers, but if it makes a noticable difference in my internet connection, then, depending on price, I would buy the best option) Which would you do: look for motherboard with onboard lan or purchase separately?

2)For sound, I am thinking of getting onboard sound and upgrading to a nice Soundblaster card later. Or perhaps just no sound at first. Will Soundblaster work with ACR or CNR or just PCI slots?

3)Is there any real reason to consider ACR or CNR? Would you make this a consideration in buying a motherboard?

I am trying to get rid of all the irrelevant factors clouding my decision on motherboard purchase. I would appreciate anything you may have to say.

Thanx

[mjc]

Well one of the problems with the AMR/CNR slots is that they never really caught on...so finding devices for them is difficult, unless of course you get the proper modem (and mostly that is about all you can find) when you buy the board....

Generally onboard devices tend to get in the way in the long run, they are less upgradable and can be difficult to disable when you want to upgarde....so I would tend to stay away from most onboard devices, but I think an onboard NIC is ok...they are one of the least likely devices to need to be upgraded.

If you are planning on going with an SB product in the future, can you get by for a few months without sound? It would probably be better in long run getting a board with out sound.....


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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.dreamwater.org/tech/mjc/index.htm)

Celts are the men that heaven made mad, For all their battles are merry and their songs are all sad.

[determined2build]

Hi

Thanx for the reply!
Yes, I can do without sound for awhile.

So, its sound like you are saying onboard lan 10/100 has the same capabilities of a network card? Ie: onboard LAN 10/100 ethernet will work with cable modem and networking with one other computer? And Soundblaster will attach to a regular pci slot?

thanx again http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/smile.gif

[Rick]

I have to agree with MJC on all points .except for One.
The On board lan/nic is Nice.. Till it fails.
Arguable they don’t fail to often. But they do fail.
With Onboard you have to Pay to get it repaired ( OUCH $$) In some cases when they fail you are not able to disable them and Install a standard slot nic..
Yes the Onbaord lan is the same as a Slot Nic/Lan card.
Remember also that most cable and dsl modems have a 5 meg limit.
So the 100 aspect is for your Peer2Peer connection

I’d suggest getting a M/B with Nothing On board if possible.
No Nic, Sound, Video, Arc, or CNR ( Including No Usb Unless you need it)
You can then Add what you want when you want it.

Find a Board that has the selection of PCI slots you will need in the Future
Most have 5 or 6 . Giving up a Pci Slot for an Anr slot is a waste. Pci is faster and has More options available

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To ERR is HUMAN
To REALLY screw things UP, YOU NEED a COMPUTER !

[determined2build]

Thank you!