Hi Aaron,
Assuming you are looking at the latest version of the code (Rev3.2), if the PHY init code doesn't find a link, the OS still boots up and you have access to the system via the UART interface.
If the Ethernet cable is disconnected and reconnected to board or router/switch, ColdFire will do software reset and start the boot process as well as look for link.
If you boot/reset without Ethernet connected you should see following on terminal:
.....COULD NOT ESTABLISH LINK.....
Running ColdFire TCP/IP-Lite stack Revision 3.1
Copyright 2008 by Freescale Semiconductor Inc.
Use of this software is controlled by the agreement
found in the project LICENSE.H file.
Built on Feb 12 2009 14:34:23
If you connect the Ethernet cable you should see following on terminal:
100bT - Half Dup
Running ColdFire TCP/IP-Lite stack Revision 3.1
Copyright 2008 by Freescale Semiconductor Inc.
Use of this software is controlled by the agreement
found in the project LICENSE.H file.
Built on Feb 12 2009 14:34:23
Regards,
David