USB net connectors not working with Linux Mandriva on 600x

[The Olde Man]

Plugged my USB WiFi gizmo into the USB slot on my TP 600x with Linux Mandriva and the LED did not wink. Hmmm!

Figuring I had a dead USB slot, I got a Dynex 2 USB port card to slide in the PC slot and no sign of life there either.

I have used both in my TP 600 and they work.

Ethernet also works.

What do I need to do here? I have a disk for both the Wi-Fi connector and the Dynex but have been unable to convince Mandriva to accept them.

The 300+ page on line manual for Linux M. has not been helpful mainly because I cannot get online with the 600x.

[The Olde Man]

Well, surprise! I downloaded a driver and guess what, the gizmos started showing signs of life, LED sparked. Different reaction than from Windows where the LED sparked but no other reaction.

However, I am not home free yet as another post will outline.