Hello. I would like to find information regarding how to program
firmware for cable modems (specifically the Motorola Surfboard). All I
know is that it is done is assembly language in VXWorks, and that it
applies to the ceratin processor in the cable modem (which in
Surfboard modems I think is a Broadcom processor). Can you please find
me information on how to program such firmware? Thank you.

Hi, 

Without knowing the processor type (there are several Broadcom chips)
and the type of Surfboard you have (again, several versions) it is
difficult to narrow things down, but from your starting point, perhaps
these are not necessary, as it looks like you have much to read and
digest before specific details will be relevant to you.

Below I've found some good sites to look over and learn more about
cable modems, embedded systems and how they are currently being used,
and altered in various ways. cable-modem.org is a good place to start,
and then work your way out from there. They have some exclent
tutorials on just about all aspects of cable-modem design and
connectivity.


Links of interest

Cable-Modems.Org
http://www.cable-modems.org/


EE Time Embedded Developers Journal Home Page
http://www.eet.com/embedsub

vxworks
http://www.eg3.com/WebID/rtos/vxworks/blank/tutorial/a-z.htm


Embedded Systems The Hidden Opportunity
http://www.mckinsey.com/practices/hightech/softwareservices/
pdfs/Embedded%20Systems.pdf

How To .. Surfboard Cable Modems
http://www.opticwind.com/surfboard/


SB4100 Surfboard GI Motorola Cablemodems
http://www.wi2600.org/pipermail/2600/2001-October/008668.html


Queries Used on Google

+"Cable modem" +"firmware" 
+Surfboard +firmware
+"Embedded Systems" +"Surfboard" 

Thanks for the question,

webadept-ga

---

Request for Answer Clarification by newguy561-ga on 15 Jul 2002 19:57 PDT

Hi again. Thank you for the sites, they have helped me a lot on my
start. First of all, I already know all the standards for cable
modems, and how they work, so that is not necessary. Basically I would
like to take a firmware file, used by the Motorola Surfboard 4100
(which I have discovered used the Broadcom BCM3350 chip) and edit it
to my liking. Where can I start to learn about the assembly language
used for this chip so I will be able to edit the firmware? Or maybe
you can send me to a place that will do the editing for me, with a
price. Thanks.

---

Clarification of Answer by webadept-ga on 15 Jul 2002 21:09 PDT

Here's a great place to start looking here. Their package allows you
to simulate the chip you have and begin experementing with code on
that chip. Several sources of referance are available as well.

http://www.epitools.com/products/intel/software/xdbsim.shtml

http://www.epitools.com/products/mips/broadcom_pap_list.shtml#BCM3310

Thanks again, 

webadept-ga