Ethernet Update v1.0

is available from the Mac OS 9.x Software Update control panel (2.2 MB) and for download (2.6 MB) from Apple. "Ethernet Update 1.0 improves the reliability of ethernet in certain rare network configurations. These configurations are typically 10Mbit networks which include coax (10Base5 or 10Base2) network segments in large single collision domains ( i.e. not separated by switches ) that use much smaller than standard interpacket gaps or have carrier collision dropout. This update replaces the Mac OS ROM file with a new version, 3.8. NOTE: It is not necessary to install this update unless you are experiencing reliability issues with your ethernet networking configuration." The update installs Mac OS ROM v3.8 for Mac OS 9.0.4 (US English) so it is not for all Macs. As expected, the control panel returned no new updates for our PowerBook 2400c, PowerBase and Power Mac 7300 but, curiously, not for the Blue & White Power Mac G3 either. The control panel installed the update on our iMac 350 SL, original iBook and Power Mac G4 so it must be only for the newest UMA board Macs. [Dana Baggett]