[Broadcom] Frequently Asked Questions

| Wireless Driver & Software

Does Broadcom have a native Linux driver available for 54g products?

Broadcom does not currently offer a native Linux driver for 54g solutions. However, you can use a 54g-based card on a Linux platform using a solution described at the following website: http://www.linuxquestions.org/hcl/showproduct.php?product=810

Does Broadcom offer Linux developer support services?

Broadcom’s primary business is manufacturing silicon chips, but also offers reference designs and drivers that enable manufacturers to easily develop new products. Once a manufacturer specifies a Broadcom chip for a product, they receive design support from Broadcom. Likewise, Broadcom will support any Linux effort for a customer that is developing a products based on Broadcom technology. There are currently no plans to support third-party development of Linux drivers for shipping Broadcom products.

Does Broadcom have a wireless driver for the 64-bit version of Windows XP?

Broadcom is currently working on a driver for the 64-bit version of Windows XP. Once completed, it will be released to our partners, who will modify for their equipment and test it for reliability. Equipment manufacturers will release it once they are ready to support it. The 64-bit version of Windows XP is currently planned for release in the spring of 2005, so you should contact the manufacture of your wireless card to get more information about their support plans.

How can I troubleshoot problems with wireless coverage?

Determining the exact coverage area of a wireless device can be challenging. The wireless signal is attenuated (weakened) by distance, as well as the density of the materials through which it passes. For example, concrete walls cause a signal to fade more than plaster or sheetrock. In addition, the more walls, floors or ceilings, the weaker the wireless signals. Interference also injects uncertainty into wireless signal strength. 802.11b/g devices can encounter interference from microwave ovens, 2.4 GHz cordless phones, or even other wireless networks in your neighborhood.

Here are a few things that you can try to improve wireless coverage:

• Change the orientation of your router’s antenna
• Move your router to a different location in your home or office (not necessarily closer to the client device, but in a more central or open location)
• Add a high(er) gain antenna to your router or client
• Add a second router to cover the each floor
• Determine if there are other wireless networks in the vicinity and set your network to a channel that does not interfere. If your neighbor is using channel 6, set your router to channel 11.