[CentOS] Problem with running Centos 5.2 on Dell Optiplex 330

[nate]

Pete Kay wrote:
> Hi,
>
> I am havind deep trouble with a bunch of our newly arrived Optiplex
> 330 as it can't run Centos 5.2 property.
>
> The installation works fine, but when it boots up, it can't be
> connected to the network.  I am getting error saying " link is not
> ready" when doing system-config-network.  I check lspci and it can
> detect the network controller no problem.  The light next to the cable
> is also on as well.
>
> Does anyone know how I can fix this problem?

It's quite possible the network driver isn't compatible with
the system. Looking at the support site for Dell that system
isn't supported with Linux, and it looks like it has a pretty
new broadcom chip on it.

I'd bet that updating the driver will allow the NIC to work,
the latest drivers for that system are available here:

http://www.broadcom.com/support/ethernet_nic/netlink.php

Broadcom has a history of updating their network chips in
ways that are not compatible with existing drivers, forcing
you to install new ones, for this reason I've preferred Intel
network chips for some time now.

nate