Based on Intels 82559 communications processor, the NC3123 incorporates a variety of features for faster throughput than previous 10/100 NICs, increasing flexibility & reducing support costs. Full-duplex support allows the NC3123 to transmit & receive data simultaneously at rates up to 20 Mbps for Ethernet & 200 Mbps for Fast Ethernet. Performance is further enhanced with 6 KB of buffer memory, which makes for low CPU utilization at high throughputs. Auto-sensing capabilities enable it to automatically negotiate between 10 & 100 Mbps to achieve the highest common speed on the network. Adaptive Load Balancing (ALB) & Ciscos Fast Ether Channel are two port-bonding methods supported by the NC3123. ALB provides both fail over & balancing of transmit traffic across NICs for increased performance. For even higher performance, Ciscos Fast Ether Channel (FEC) provides port fail over & balancing of transmit & receive traffic across all NICs when connected to a switch that supports FEC.