The Digital Semiconductor 21143 is a network controller chip that was widely used in networking hardware during the late 1990s and early 2000s. It provided Ethernet connectivity for various devices, including network interface cards (NICs) and embedded systems.
The 21143 chip supported both 10Mbps and 100Mbps Ethernet standards, allowing for reliable and fast data transfer over Ethernet networks. It offered features such as full-duplex support, auto-negotiation, and Wake-On-LAN capabilities.
The chip was known for its compatibility with different operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Unix variants. It integrated seamlessly with existing network infrastructure, enabling reliable communication and network connectivity.
With its robust performance and widespread compatibility, the Digital Semiconductor 21143 played a significant role in the growth and adoption of Ethernet technology. However, as technology advanced, newer and more advanced network controller chips emerged, eventually rendering the 21143 obsolete. Nonetheless, it remains an important part of networking history and played a significant role in the development of Ethernet connectivity.
