Odd networking problem

[khimedia]

We have a 3 computer network, and they keep losing the connection sporadically. When we lose the connection, the light on the hub and network cards are still on. When I unplug and re-plug the cables into the hub, the connection is restored. We had this problem about 3 months ago, and we replaced the network cards, and the problem went away. It is back again. We plan to replace the network cards again, but they should not go bad after 3 months. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[edfair]

What OS? What protocol?
Several have fixed similar situations by adding NETBUI as an additional protocol. Ed Fair
Any advice I give is my best judgement based on my interpretation of the facts you supply. Help increase my knowledge by providing some feedback, good or bad, on any advice I have given.

 

[khimedia]

All systems are windows 98 and have only tcp/ip protocol installed. I will try adding the netbui protocol

 

[m32]

khimedia,

I don't know how long it's been since you have had this problem, maybe by now you have already fixed it....

Did you look in to the culprit being the Hub/router....?
What are your thougths?


mm

 

[BuckeyeComputers]

Also check to see how your cables are running...sounds like your getting a static buildup which is locking the signal and when you unplug it releases and then just sits and builds again

 

[khimedia]

I have replaced the network cards and the hub, but it still keeps disconnecting. It sounds like it could be the static buildup problem mentioned by BuckeyeComputers. What can I do about the static buildup? Do I need to run new, better shielded cable?

 

[BuckeyeComputers]

Shielded cables will probally help, where are your lines running now, the one i was mentioning was running in a drop down ceiling across fluresent lighting....always a good idea to keep the cables away from electrical wires and such if at all possible but sheided may do the trick if this isnt possible

 

[IFRs]

If your NICs are ISA, can you replace with PCI? I had trouble with ISA cards once.

Also, you should be using CAT5 cables with RJ45 connectors, not BNC.

Is it possible that your DHCP server has got some odd settings?