Atheros AR5XXX + Server 2003 [32-bit]

[mashimus]

Hi,

I recently bought a Atheros AR5XXX (AR5008 / 11a/b/g/n / AR5BXB72) for my T61p, but I could not get the IBM drivers working under Server 2003 [32-bit]. I have done a search, and while there are some topics on this, there were never any success stories.

I have used IBM's latest driver (6.0.3.94), and also some other drivers direct from Atheros (7.4.2.105 and 7.6.0.224), but I cannot get it working. It shows up under device manager as: "This device cannot start. (Code 10)".

Has anyone ever gotten this network card to work under 2003 [32-bit]? If so, could you share your experiences...

Thanks!!

[mashimus]

Just following up on this, I sent an email to Atheros directly, asking them to work on some drivers and this is their reply:

Thank you for your interest in products containing Atheros Communications' technology.

However, we do not offer the mini-PCI cards or drivers that you're inquiring about. Atheros typically sells chips to module manufacturers and therefore would not be able to help you with this task. For issues regarding driver support or customer service related to drivers, please contact the manufacturer of the product or system you purchased. We suggest you refer to the manufacturer’s website, as they typically offer online technical support pages where software drivers, updates, and other related information can be obtained.



So I'm guessing I should be bugging Lenovo about it? I thought that Lenovo only repackaged the driver... hmmmm...

[erik]

So I'm guessing I should be bugging Lenovo about it? I thought that Lenovo only repackaged the driver... hmmmm...

server 2003 isn't supported on any thinkpad so they'll just send you elsewhere.

unfortunately this topic has come up a number of times.   i have yet to see definitive evidence of an atheros card working under 2003.

reference:
http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?t=53724
http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?t=62399

intel cards will work with 2003 so you might consider getting the intel AGN card (FRU 42T0865).   fwiw, i've had both atheros and intel cards and currently prefer intel as they run cooler, are more compatible, have more reliable connections, and hold just as good of signal strength.