[SLL] Ethernet Card Suggestions Anyone?

[Ralph Sims]

Are there recommendations for PCI Ethernet cards?   While the network is
Fast Ethernet, the GigE cards seem to offer 2000Mbps FDX speeds while the FE
cards seem to go up to 132Mbps.  What's to be gained by using a GigE card on
an FE network?  Do the cards have some type of pre-processor that offloads
some functions?   Also, are there known downsides to using a 2- or 4-port
cards?  The main requirement is that the later Linux kernels like the cards
and that they are F A S T;  I don't know if we'll have PCI Express
capabilities in the boxes.

Along the same line, I'd look for motherboard suggestions that offer
multiple GigE NICs--small form factor a plus.

Thanks...