So I found this in the ICH4 datasheet:
The LAN controller enters Wake on LAN mode after reset if the Wake on LAN bit in the EEPROM is set *(which it is)*. At this point, the LAN controller is in the D0u state. When the LAN controller is in Wake on LAN mode: ? The LAN controller scans incoming packets for a Magic Packet and asserts the PME# signal for 52 ms when a one is detected in Wake on LAN mode. ? The Activity LED changes its functionality to indicates that the received frame passed Individual Address (IA) filtering or broadcast filtering. ? The PCI Configuration registers are accessible to the host *(this is what I'm looking for!!)*. The LAN controller switches from Wake on LAN mode to the D0a power state following
So, if this is correct I think I was right in saying the nic seemed like it was powered off?? At this point I need to figure out how to assert a PME# signal to wake up the nic. Maybe from the Power Managment Control register??
Thanks - Joe