Inside
These two bridges are similar in design in that both use Realtek SoCs for their processors and radios. The table has the rundown of the key components. Not shown is the Realtek ALC5629 I2S/PCM Audio DAC that the Edimax uses to drive its audio-out jack for its AirPlay support.
Edimax CV-7438nDM | NETGEAR WNCE3001 | |
---|---|---|
CPU | Realtek RTL8197D | Realtek RTL8196C |
Switch / Ethernet | 10/100: in CPU Gigabit: Realtek RTL8211e |
In CPU |
RAM | 64 MB | 16 MB |
Flash | ? MB | ? MB |
Radio | Realtek RTL8192DR | Realtek RTL8192DR |
Component summary
We've seen the RTL8197D processor in D-Link's DIR-850L router and more recently in its DNR-202L Network Video Recorder. Edimax also uses the RTL8192DR dual-band radio in its EW-7238RPD repeater.
Here's a shot of the Edimax' board with its RF shields removed.
Edimax CV-7438nDM board
Remember that I mentioned its antenna positioning? Here's a look at the inside with yellow arrows pointing to the two patch-style antennas. This picture has the device sitting as it would in normal use.
Edimax CV-7438nDM antenna detail
The WNCE3001's board has its two dual-band antennas integrated into the board. This is why you want to stand it up and point its wide side toward the router you are connecting to.