> Message: 1 > Date: Thu, 21 Dec 2006 12:29:54 -0600 > From: Dave Roe <droe at real-time.com> > Subject: [tclug-list] modem for mpls wireless > To: tclug-list at mn-linux.org > Message-ID: <20061221182954.GA16079 at droe-rt-dsl.real-time.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 > > Can someone tell me what modem US Internet will use for it's hosting of > Minneapolis' wireless network and if it is linux friendly? > > If you are asking about "hotspot wireless" as in radio - aka 802.11B-G, I wouldn't worry too much unless you are using a laptop with a PCMCIA wireless card. Those get tricky if the ISP is running a proprietary protocol like TurboCell instead of standard 802.11, or worse - there isn't a Linux driver You can also solve the problem if you can get an Ethernet converter, rather than using a PCMCIA card. An ethernet converter is basically an external transciever (for 802.11 or whatever protocol used by the ISP embedded in the firmware) with an Ethernet RJ-45 port for hookup to whatever hardware you happen to be using. All PCs and laptops have embedded Ethernet, so it saves A LOT of time and pain because then there are no drivers required and practically no setup - just plug it in like a router or hub - you don't need to worry about your OS as long as you have drivers for your Ethernet card. I'd check with the ISP to see what they are using 802.11B-G or something else - then see if they have or recommend transceiver with an onboard Ethernet converter. They make travel sized converters for laptops! =) Don't accept anything less. I know. I use a 900 series Trango 802.11 transceiver with a theoretical 10 mile range at home, because I live out in the sticks. I absolutely refuse to use anything that isn't terminated with an Ethernet converter. I just plug-in to the Ethernet and go - no drivers or setup needed. No special PPP setup, no XSupplicant, no special drivers, and many hours saved - WEP and everything else is handled by the firmware before the connection hits your laptop or PC. It's just too much hassle any other way. I wouldn't accept USB, either. Those are especially annoying when it comes to drivers. Cheers! T.J. -- T.J. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: tj.vcf Type: text/x-vcard Size: 117 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://mailman.mn-linux.org/pipermail/tclug-list/attachments/20061222/67755a76/attachment.vcf