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Thanks to all of you for the pricing info.
For this installation, I have decided to go with the GS version (WRT54gs) instead of the GL so that my Sister can more easily admin the system. Though I have the Unix Solaris and Linux training and could probably set up remote admin capabilities, there will be two of these in the system (one at the house and one at the barn) with the house being where the DSL line comes in.
She has a pretty good handle on Windows based apps, so training her to handle the browser admin interface should be easy enough. (You know, 192.168.1.1 then enter the password).
Besides, I would rather talk her through a "fix" on the phone than have to drive 75 miles each way to deal with something minor.
The difference in the WRT54g and gs models is as follows:
The "GS" model contains 32 MB of RAM and 16 MB of flash memory (double the WRT54G series amounts) and has the new Broadcom "AfterBurner" technology which can speed transfers up to 35% according to their testing.
The unit looks identical to the V1.1 and V2 WRT54G models on the outside. The internal circuitry is identical to later G V2 units, though these models have the extra 16 MB of RAM disabled.
Where things can get confusing with these Linksys boxes is:
WRT54G V2.2 and WRT54GS V1.1
These models are identical to the G V2.0 and GS V1.0 models but use a new Broadcom BCM4325 Ethernet controller chip.
V1.0, V1.1, V2.0 and WRT54GS can all use the same Sveasoft firmware**.
The G V2.2 and GS V1.1 models must use Alchemy-60.rc4a or newer firmware.
What I am still a bit fuzzy on is why some sellers refer to this thing as Version 5 (V5). I have yet to find a good explanation of whether they are referring to the hardware itself or the OEM firmware. (Enquiring minds would like to know.)
If I do decide to upgrade to the Sveasoft firmware to get the added control and security features, then the "version" can become a critical issue.
If I can ever get the remodel finished on MY farmhouse, I might consider the Linux version for my own system.
The best prices that I have found so far on the "GS" are through Buy.com and Newegg... 49.99 each with free shipping (after $15 mail in rebate.) I have bought from both before and they are fairly quick and reliable. Besides, they are both in other states and still don't wack me for our 9.25% Tennessee State sales tax. Double the RAM and a faster processor are a pretty good Bang-for-the-buck for only "A Few Dollars More" (my apologies to Clint Eastwood.) One of the computers in the barn will be constantly feeding digitized real time video from the security and birthing stall cameras, so the more speed I can muster out of this setup, the better.
If I recall correctly, one of the axioms of Murphy's Law does state, "The day after you finally buy something, the price will drop by at least 20%."
Cheers and again, many thanks.
Sleeping Dog
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