IBM 29H5980 16/4 Auto Token Ring PCI Network Card 41H8459 Compaq 173157-001

IBM 29H5980 16/4 Auto Token Ring PCI Network Card 41H8459 Compaq 173157-001

The IBM 29H5980 is a 16/4 Mbps Auto Token Ring PCI network adapter, also known by IBM part number 41H8459 and Compaq spare part number 173157-001. This PCI card connects a PC to an IEEE 802.5 Token Ring LAN at either 4 Mbps or 16 Mbps, with automatic speed detection. It uses an RJ-45 (UTP) connector on the bracket for connection to Token Ring wiring concentrators and MAUs.

Specifications & What's Included

• Manufacturer: IBM
• Primary Part Number: 29H5980
• Alternate Part Numbers: 41H8459; Compaq 173157-001
• Network Technology: Token Ring (IEEE 802.5)
• Data Rate: 4 Mbps and 16 Mbps (auto-sensing)
• Bus Interface: PCI
• Connector: RJ-45 (UTP) on bracket
• Form Factor: PCI expansion card with full-height bracket
• Country of Manufacture: Hong Kong (per PCB label)
• FCC Class A certified (per PCB label)
• Included: Card only — no cables or accessories

Applications

Token Ring was IBM's primary LAN technology from the mid-1980s through the late 1990s, widely deployed in corporate and government environments running IBM mainframe and midrange systems, including AS/400, PS/2, and PC-compatible workstations. The 16/4 Auto designation means the card auto-negotiates between the two standard Token Ring speeds, making it compatible with both older 4 Mbps rings and the more common 16 Mbps installations. These adapters were standard equipment in IBM-centric enterprise networks of the era, connecting PCs and workstations to Token Ring switches, MAUs (Multistation Access Units), and IBM network infrastructure. Today, Token Ring networks are largely legacy, but these cards remain sought after for maintaining aging IBM environments, legacy industrial control systems still running Token Ring, and historical/retro computing applications. The Compaq cross-reference (173157-001) indicates this card was also shipped in Compaq systems of the period.