Fedora 4 and NIC drivers

Darin DeFer · 04-22-2006, 11:36 AM

I am a Linux noob. I am recycling an old standalone Compaq PC to be a database server on my home network (postgresql under RedHat’s Fedora 4 linux). I have successfully connected the unit to my router but have the following problem:

I have no problem’s using the the machine in question when it is connected to my router using a short jumper cable (15’). I have CAT5 wired to the final resting place for this unit in another part of my home, approximately 80 feet from the router. When I attempt to use the unit in the more distant location, it fails to communicate (cannot resolve IP address via DHCP). The hardware checks out OK. I know that the cable job is good because I can connect my DELL laptop units to the network from there and they both function without issues.

I've tried two different NICs (USRobotics USR7900-01 and NetgearFA311) and each time I install each appears as a Realtek 8139C to Fedora. I'm fairly certain that the issue is driver related - but I can't seem to locate anything better than what came with the Fedora Code 4 install.

Advice?

Darin DeFer · 04-22-2006, 08:48 PM

Turns out it was the cable job after all. Made up an 80 foot jumper and hooked it up with no problems. The root cause was the wiring at the wall connector nearest the router. Still, makes me wonder why the laptop units were able to function and the recycled desktop unit wasn't.

04-22-2006, 11:36 AM	#1 (permalink)
Darin DeFer Registered User Join Date: Apr 2006 Posts: 2 OS: Fedora Core 4	Fedora 4 and NIC drivers I am a Linux noob. I am recycling an old standalone Compaq PC to be a database server on my home network (postgresql under RedHat’s Fedora 4 linux). I have successfully connected the unit to my router but have the following problem: I have no problem’s using the the machine in question when it is connected to my router using a short jumper cable (15’). I have CAT5 wired to the final resting place for this unit in another part of my home, approximately 80 feet from the router. When I attempt to use the unit in the more distant location, it fails to communicate (cannot resolve IP address via DHCP). The hardware checks out OK. I know that the cable job is good because I can connect my DELL laptop units to the network from there and they both function without issues. I've tried two different NICs (USRobotics USR7900-01 and NetgearFA311) and each time I install each appears as a Realtek 8139C to Fedora. I'm fairly certain that the issue is driver related - but I can't seem to locate anything better than what came with the Fedora Code 4 install. Advice? __________________ DD.

04-22-2006, 08:48 PM	#2 (permalink)
Darin DeFer Registered User Join Date: Apr 2006 Posts: 2 OS: Fedora Core 4	Never Mind... Turns out it was the cable job after all. Made up an 80 foot jumper and hooked it up with no problems. The root cause was the wiring at the wall connector nearest the router. Still, makes me wonder why the laptop units were able to function and the recycled desktop unit wasn't. __________________ DD.