Hello OMs,
> Though I'd add my AU$0.20 in favour of a USB based design;
>
> - Allows multiple devices/interfaces without IRQ/DMA hassles
> or the need for power supplies.
>
> - Suits both fixed and mobile users.
This seems to be a promising solution for Packet Radio multi port
applications, such as gateways, BBS and/or digipeaters, too.
No hassle with multiple wires and the problem where to install their
sockets into the PC case anymore.
>
> - Kernel support for USB is maturing at a rapid rate.
>
But... will it be also available for 2.0.3x ?
That seems to be an important question since the AX.25 support
for 2.2.x is not yet finished (as I know by now). Another thing (I' ve
never dealt with 2.2.x very intensive) - will the USB devices be
handled as network devices? Or should there be another way to
make them usable with AX.25 and Packet Radio?
> - Reasonable bandwidth (12Mbit/S or so ?) should allow lots
> of low speed interfaces whilst leaving room for those
> wanting to use megabit data rates.
I fully agree.
>
> - Suits non-PC users (I'm contemplating an Apple Powerbook
> to replace my (x86) Toshiba) PPC linux is becoming
> a more pervasive as more and more Macs are running Linux.
> - Doesn't rule out older machines as aftermarket USB cards are
> available, granted they're not yet mainstream.
>
> - As has been mentioned by others - ISA is rapidly
> dissapearing.
>
Important arguments.
I think it should be possible to design a TNC or something similar
that fits to the USB. Perhaps existing TNC designs (TNC2,
Kamtronics...) could be adapted for that purpose.
But how? Where could I get more, especially technical,
information?
Any hints or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
vy 55 es 73 de Gerd
