Hardware⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-19

How to Fix: "This device cannot start" error - Intel motherboard, 3-COM NIC

Error fixing Intel motherboard and 3COM NIC issues.

Quick Answer: Check the NIC's jumpers and ensure they are set to the correct configuration for your specific motherboard model.

📋 Table of Contents

  1. 💡 Why You Are Getting This Error
  2. ✅ Best Solutions to Fix It
  3. 💡 Conclusion

The 'This device cannot start' error is a common issue that affects users of Intel motherboards with integrated network connections, such as the D850EMV2 board. This error typically occurs when the system is unable to detect or communicate with the Network Interface Card (NIC). In this case, the 3COM 3C-905C-TX NIC is not functioning properly on the Intel motherboard.

Despite having a working NIC that has been tested on another computer, users are still facing this error. This can be frustrating as it prevents the system from accessing the internet or using network services.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The primary reason for this error is a conflict between the Intel motherboard's built-in network controller and the 3COM 3C-905C-TX NIC. The motherboard's BIOS may not support the NIC, leading to the detection failure.
  • Another possible cause could be a driver issue or a hardware problem with the NIC itself.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Updating the BIOS and Installing a New Driver

  1. Step 1: Update the BIOS to the latest version (P25) by downloading it from Intel's official website. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the new BIOS. Note: This step may not resolve the issue if the motherboard still does not support the NIC.
  2. Step 2: Download and install the latest drivers for the 3COM 3C-905C-TX NIC from the manufacturer's website or a reputable driver repository such as DriverPack Solution. Ensure that the correct driver version is installed for the specific NIC model.
  3. Step 3: After installing the new BIOS and drivers, restart the system and attempt to boot into Windows. If the issue persists, proceed to the alternative fix method.

Reinstalling the NIC

  1. Step 1: Disconnect all cables from the 3COM 3C-905C-TX NIC, including any power cables. Remove the NIC card from its slot and set it aside.
  2. Step 2: Reinsert the NIC card into its original position on the motherboard. Connect all cables back to the NIC, ensuring that they are securely fastened.
  3. Step 3: Restart the system and attempt to boot into Windows. If the issue resolves itself after reinstalling the NIC, this method may have resolved the problem.

💡 Conclusion

If updating the BIOS and installing a new driver does not resolve the issue, reinstalling the NIC as an alternative solution can be considered. However, if the NIC is known to be functioning properly on another computer, it's likely that the issue lies with the motherboard or its configuration. In such cases, replacing the NIC may be the most effective solution.

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