Asus RT-N16

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[[Image:asus-rt-n16.png|center]] [[Image:asus-rt-n16.png|center]]
 +The ASUS RT-N16 is a single band (2.4 GHz) N300 Gigabit Router with 128MB RAM and 32MB Flash ROM. Note that SFE accelerated NAT (K3X build 33006+) is required to achieve high WAN speeds with an IPv4 SPI firewall. For speed tests without SFE, see [[Asus_RT-N16#Performance|Performance]].
-The ASUS RT-N16 is a Single Band N-Router (2.4GHz only) with lots of RAM (128Mb) and FlashRAM (32Mb), so it is well equipped to run DD-WRT +==[https://wikidevi.com/wiki/ASUS_RT-N16 Hardware] Specifications==
- +{| border="1" cellspacing="0"
-The ASUS RT-N16 is in the 100Mbps+ Routing class, meaning it can route at higher speeds than a 100Mbps WAN connection can handle, but it does not even attempt to approach GigaBit WAN performance. [[Asus_RT-N16#Performance|Performance]] details below.+|-
- +!RAM
-If you are looking for a Dual Band N-Router (both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands) also with lots of RAM (256MB) and FlashRAM (32Mb), you could take a look at the [[Asus_RT-N66U|ASUS RT-N66U]]. If you are looking for a cheaper router, but still with DD-WRT Mega specs (and USB port) you could take a look at the [[Asus_RT-N10U|Asus RT-N10U]] Single Band N-Router with 32Mb RAM and 8Mb FlashRAM.+|128 MB (2*64MB): Samsung K4N511163QZ-HC25
- +:or Samsung K4T51163QG-HCE6
-==Specifications==+|-
- +!Flash
-Unit RAM = 128 MB (2x 64MB - Samsung K4N511163QZ-HC25 or 2x 64MB - Samsung K4T51163QG-HCE6)+|32 MB (MACRONIX MX29GL256EHTI2I-90Q)
- +|-
-Unit Flash = 32 MB (MACRONIX MX29GL256EHTI2I-90Q)+!NVRAM
- +|32K
-Unit NVRAM = 32K+|-
- +!CPU
-Unit CPU = Broadcom 4716, 533 MHz (Factory clocked to 480MHz)+|Broadcom 4716@480MHz[1] (Broadcom spec is 533)
-: use command ''cat /proc/cpuinfo'' in a terminal program like puTTY to get the full CPU details+|-
- +!USB ports
-USB ports = USB2.0 x 2 +|USB2.0 x 2
- +|-
-Stock Power Supply = 12V - 1,25A max [[Asus_RT-N16#Upgrading_the_Power_Supply|(Upgrading the Power Supply)]]+!Power Supply
- +|12V - 1,25A max [[Asus_RT-N16#Links|(Upgrading the Power Supply)]]
-Ethernet Ports = WAN x 1 RJ-45 for 10/100/1000 Base T, LAN x 4 RJ-45 for 10/100/1000 Base T+|-
- +!RJ-45 Ethernet Ports
-Antennas = 3 x external detachable 2dBi antennas+|WAN (1), LAN (4), both 10/100/1000 Mb/s
- +|-
-WiFi Operating Frequency = 2.4GHz ~ 2.5GHz+!Antennas
- +|3 x external detachable 2dBi antennas
-802.11n Draft = up to 300Mbps+|-
- +!WiFi Frequency Range
-802.11g = 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 54Mbps+|2.4GHz ~ 2.5GHz
- +|-
-802.11b = 1, 2, 5.5, 11Mbps+!802.11n
- +|up to 300Mbps
-Unit Switch Chip = Broadcom BCM53115SKFBG+|-
- +!802.11g
-Color of LEDs = Blue+|up to 54Mbps
 +|-
 +!802.11b
 +|up to 11Mbps
 +|-
 +!Switch Chip
 +|Broadcom BCM53115SKFBG
 +|-
 +!LED Color
 +|Blue
 +|}
 +[1] Run ''cat /proc/cpuinfo'' in a terminal (like puTTY) to get the full CPU details.
==Main board== ==Main board==
[[Image:Asus_rt-n16_JTAG.png|thumb|center|500px|This shows the main board for the Asus RT N16 along with the location for the ''[[JTAG]]'' headers.]] [[Image:Asus_rt-n16_JTAG.png|thumb|center|500px|This shows the main board for the Asus RT N16 along with the location for the ''[[JTAG]]'' headers.]]
-=Installation Instructions=+=Install DD-WRT from Factory Firmware=
-==Install DD-WRT from Factory Firmware==+
-Please note: The RT-N16 does REQUIRE the '''K26''' Firmware builds as Broadcom has not released drivers for the non-K26 builds. (Read more here: [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=52043 Recommended Firmware]). The NEWD firmware was specifically for this generation of Broadcom-based routers. Details of the DD-WRT firmware build variations are [[What_is_DD-WRT%3F#K2.6_Build_Features| found here]]. More current build information can be found in the [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486 Peacock announcement thread].+Please note: Details of the DD-WRT firmware build variations are [[What_is_DD-WRT%3F#K2.6_Build_Features| found here]]. More current build information can be found in the [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=51486 Peacock announcement thread]. See [[Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|Where do I download firmware?]] for links.
===Overview=== ===Overview===
:* Restore Factory Default settings ([[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Clear NVRAM]]) :* Restore Factory Default settings ([[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Clear NVRAM]])
-:* Install the INITIAL ASUS RT-N16 version of DD-WRT (file name ends in '''.trx''')+:* Install the INITIAL trailed build '''22118 K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx''' of DD-WRT
-:* Restore Factory Default settings ([[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Clear NVRAM]])+:* Restore Factory Default settings ([[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Clear NVRAM]]) or via DD-WRT webGUI
-:* Upgrade to your final version of DD-WRT (file name ends in .trx or .bin)+:* Upgrade to the temporary '''21530 K3X custom build''' (from 2013)
-:* Restore Factory Default settings ([[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Clear NVRAM]])+:* Restore Factory Default settings ([[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Clear NVRAM]]), or via DD-WRT webGUI
-:Optional:+:* Upgrade to recent '''working K3X mega or big build''' (*.trx and N16 in the name)
-:* Install more packages, like Optware packages (see: [[Optware%2C_the_Right_Way|Optware, the Right Way]] (OTRW) and [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=156013 OTRW Take 2]).+See [[Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F|Where do I download firmware]] for links and research New Build and model-specific threads.
===Procedure=== ===Procedure===
-#Do a Restore Factory Default settings in the Asus GUI. Asus factory default username/password is admin/admin. Let the router reboot. Disconnect all cables (WAN, USB, etc.) and plug the Ethernet cable from your PC into the LAN1 port on the router.+#Download the INITIAL trailed DD-WRT firmware: [https://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/2013/07-24-2013-r22118/broadcom_K26/dd-wrt.v24-22118_NEWD-2_K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx (2013) 22118 K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx] Any current trailed build in the K26 series will work such as [https://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/2018/08-30-2018-r36808/broadcom_K26/dd-wrt.v24-36808_NEWD-2_K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx]
-#Select the INITIAL dd-wrt firmware, located here : +#Restore Factory Default settings in the Asus GUI. Asus factory default username/password is admin/admin. Let the router reboot. Plug the PC into a LAN port on the router and disconnect other connections.
-#* Recommended Build for initial flashing: [ftp://ftp.dd-wrt.com/betas/2010/08-12-10-r14929/broadcom_K26/dd-wrt.v24-14929_NEWD-2_K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx dd-wrt.v24-14929_NEWD-2_K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx]+
#Flashing the INITIAL Firmware to the router (the one where the file name ends in .trx) #Flashing the INITIAL Firmware to the router (the one where the file name ends in .trx)
-#: EITHER Using your browser, Flash the downloaded firmware (.trx file) through the router's GUI+#Set the router in "Recover mode" (same as other Asus routers) With this router pull power, hold the reset button in then plug in power and look for the slow blink of the power light.
-#:* Open you browser at http://192.168.1.1/. +#:*Use ASUS Firmware Restoration Utility to upload the new firmware (from router CD or [ftp://ftp.asus.com.tw/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-N16/UT_RT_N16_4090.zip here]). or search for Asus Recovery Utility. Or use tftp under windows. (tested on windows 10 the command tftp -i 192.168.1.1 put dd-wrt.v24-36808_NEWD-2_K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx works)
-#:* Goto Administration tab -> Firmware Upgrade tab. +
-#:* Upload and wait for router to reset on its own (may take anywhere from 3 to 15 minutes). +
-#:: ''Note on browsers:'' Some users report problems using anything but Internet Explorer. Other users successfully report using whatever browser they are used to using. So your mileage may vary.+
-#:ALTERNATE - set the router in "Recover mode" (same as other Asus routers) +
-#:*Use ASUS Firmware Restoration Utility to upload the new firmware (from router CD or [ftp://ftp.asus.com.tw/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-N16/UT_RT_N16_4090.zip here]). +
#:*You need to set the PC to Static IP 192.168.1.2 ([[Static_IP|Static IP guide]]) #:*You need to set the PC to Static IP 192.168.1.2 ([[Static_IP|Static IP guide]])
#:*Set the router in recovery mode by holding in the reset button when plugging in the power. The power light should now be blinking slowly, meaning the router is in restore/recovery mode and ready for the new firmware. Upload and wait for the router to reset on its own (may take anywhere from 3 to 15 minutes). #:*Set the router in recovery mode by holding in the reset button when plugging in the power. The power light should now be blinking slowly, meaning the router is in restore/recovery mode and ready for the new firmware. Upload and wait for the router to reset on its own (may take anywhere from 3 to 15 minutes).
-#:: ''Note on Asus Recovery Utility:'' The recover utility is basically a fancy tftp server, with added wait timer, so non-windows users may use standard tftp tools to upload firmware, just remember to do the proper wait for 3 minutes or more, for the unit to re-boot on its own, after the 10 to 30 seconds of tftp'ing is done. Inspiring tftp guides: [[Tftp_flash]], [[Asus_TFTP_Flash]]+#:''Note on Asus Recovery Utility:'' The recover utility is just a tftp server with added wait timer, but standard tftp tools can also be used to upload firmware. Just remember to do the proper 3 minutes or more wait for the unit to reboot itself, after the 10 to 30sec tftp completion. See: [[Tftp_flash|TFTP]], [[Asus_TFTP_Flash|ASUS TFTP]]
#After the reboot from flashing, wait for the device to show the password change screen for DD-WRT. Enter '''root''' as the user and anything for the password as you will do the user/pass procedure again after the final flash. #After the reboot from flashing, wait for the device to show the password change screen for DD-WRT. Enter '''root''' as the user and anything for the password as you will do the user/pass procedure again after the final flash.
-#Do a Reset to Factory Settings. +#Reset to Factory Settings.
-#*''Method A'' - Use the DD-WRT GUI. Goto Administration -> Factory Defaults -> click Yes -> select Apply Settings. +#*''Method A'' - Use the DD-WRT GUI. Go to ''Administration->Factory Defaults'', click Yes then select ''Apply''.
-#*''Method B'' - Do a [[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|hard reset]]. The following procedure will clear out the NVRAM and set dd-wrt back to default values:+#*''Method B'' - WPS button [[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|hard reset]]. The following procedure will clear out the NVRAM and set dd-wrt back to default values:
#**With the unit powered off, press and hold the Red WPS button on the back of the unit. #**With the unit powered off, press and hold the Red WPS button on the back of the unit.
#**Without releasing the WPS button plug the power in, and hold the WPS button for 30 seconds #**Without releasing the WPS button plug the power in, and hold the WPS button for 30 seconds
#**When releasing the WPS button the unit will reboot and Factory Default settings will be loaded. #**When releasing the WPS button the unit will reboot and Factory Default settings will be loaded.
-#:::Note on hardware reset to clear the NVRAM: ASUS units have a different reset procedure than Linksys units. The above described method actually works on the RT-N16! See also [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=388920#388920 Eko Forum note]+#:''Note on Asus hardware reset'' for NVRAM clear: do not use the Reset button. See [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=388920#388920 Eko's post]
-#Do not skip step 5! Reset is IMPORTANT and recommended BEFORE and AFTER every firmware flash!+#Reset is recommended BEFORE and AFTER flashing and may be required for large jumps to avoid issues.
-#Upgrade to the dd-wrt firmware you want to end up with (the one where the file name ends in .bin) (see [[What_is_DD-WRT%3F#K2.6_Build_Features|K26 Build Features]] for options) . This time you can use the web interface to do the upload. Administration -> Firmware Upgrade. Make sure you understand that you need a k26 build for this router, and how to flash properly. READ THE PEACOCK ANNOUNCEMENT in the broadcom forum.+#Upgrade to the custom transition firmware [https://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/download.php?id=36961 dd-wrt.v24-21530_NEWD-2_K3.x_big.bin] ([https://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/download.php?id=25229 Alt])
 +#*NOTE: 21530 is not a regular released beta build! This transition firmware repartitions the flash. Later firmware of this series DO NOT.
 +#Use the web GUI to upload. ''Administration->Firmware Upgrade'' and select Reset to Defaults.
 +#Upgrade to a recent ''working'' K3X big build from the betas folder, this time DO NOT reset settings.
 +See [https://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F Where do I download firmware] for links and research New Build and model-specific threads.
-#Reward yourself for reading and following these instructions with a cold beverage of your choice. Enjoy DD-WRT on the RT-N16! Also, please consider donating to DD-WRT as we are an open-source community providing free software to upgrade consumer routers with commercial-grade capabilities.+Note that you SHOULD NOT reset settings under any firmware beyond the transition firmware or you could render it unbootable necessitating starting over.
-#Consider [[Optware%2C_the_Right_Way|OTRW]] and [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=156013 OTRW Take 2] to add more services such as pixelserv, stophammer and much more.+
-#*[http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=90301 Asterisk with Gtalk] has been successfully installed. Search the forum (and threads by gatorback) for more information. The same applies in digium.com and asterisk.org forums.+
-Also read [[Wireless-N_Configuration|Wireless-N Configuration]] to learn how to get the most WiFi data speed out of your new N-Router.+Firmware 36808 BIG K26 runs on this router. [https://download1.dd-wrt.com/dd-wrtv2/downloads/betas/2018/08-30-2018-r36808/broadcom_K26/dd-wrt.v24-36808_NEWD-2_K2.6_big.bin]
-===Notes===+Congratulations! Please consider donating to DD-WRT as we are an open-source community providing free software to upgrade consumer routers with commercial-grade capabilities.
 + 
 +Also read [[Basic_Wireless_Settings|Basic Wireless Settings]] and [[Advanced_wireless_settings|Advanced Wireless Settings]] to learn how to get the most WiFi data speed out of your new N-Router.
 + 
 +====Troubleshooting====
 +IF the router won't provide a Power LED after updating to the K3.x file...then there is a problem with the flash chip and it needs to be cleared (except the CFE). Issue the following commands via telnet/SSH or the Commands window under the Admin tab.
 + 
 +mtd erase nvram
 + 
 +mtd erase ddwrt
 + 
 +mtd erase linux
 + 
 +This will clear the flash chip...now start the process again with the K2.6 mini build
 +This is documented here: [https://forum.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=307336&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=15]
 +
 +====Notes about K3X====
 +Do NOT issue "erase nvram" command from CLI...this unit only has 64K of nvram...the CLI thinks it has 128K and the firmware thinks its 256k...this means doing an "erase nvram" removed other parts of the flash chip (likely firmware partition "dd-wrt" or "linux")
 +
 +Note: build 21530 seems to have wireless issues...it broadcasts the ssid...but you can't connect to it...however, if in repeater bridge mode, you can contact it through the host AP at the router's IP address.
 +
 +There is a large thread with lots of info on this router here [https://forum.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=88118&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0]
 +
 +===Notes===
* NAT Loopback (Port Forwarding) is broken in builds 15760-19969 (see [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=89353 this thread] for a workaround) * NAT Loopback (Port Forwarding) is broken in builds 15760-19969 (see [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=89353 this thread] for a workaround)
** 15962, 17990, & 18000 are Recommended Builds which would require this workaround ** 15962, 17990, & 18000 are Recommended Builds which would require this workaround
* Special thanks to Eko for making the initial work on getting the RT-N16 to work with DD-WRT! * Special thanks to Eko for making the initial work on getting the RT-N16 to work with DD-WRT!
-==Flash instructions when running DD-WRT==+=Upgrading DD-WRT=
If DD-WRT is already loaded on your router, you can flash firmware using these steps If DD-WRT is already loaded on your router, you can flash firmware using these steps
-# Download firmware +# Download firmware from one of the sites listed: [https://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F Where do I download firmware]
-#*Mini 18024: [ftp://ftp.dd-wrt.com/betas/2011/12-20-11-r18024/broadcom_K26/dd-wrt.v24-18024_NEWD-2_K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx dd-wrt.v24-18024_NEWD-2_K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx]+#*Go to the Broadcom K3X folder, then download the ***K3.x-big-RT-N16.bin file.
-#*Mega 18024: [ftp://ftp.dd-wrt.com/betas/2011/12-20-11-r18024/broadcom_K26/dd-wrt.v24-18024_NEWD-2_K2.6_mega.bin dd-wrt.v24-18024_NEWD-2_K2.6_mega.bin]+
# Open the DD-WRT's web interface in your web browser and open http://192.168.1.1/ (the default). # Open the DD-WRT's web interface in your web browser and open http://192.168.1.1/ (the default).
-# Do a Restore Factory Default settings ([[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Clear NVRAM]]). Let the router reboot.+#*Admin page: Reset with Restore Factory Default settings and let the router reboot. NOTE this may soft brick it! To be absolutely sure this does not happen you can login to the router and issue the mtd commands listed above and start over with the K6 trailed build on recovery mode followed by the special transition build.
# Open the DD-WRT's web interface in your web browser. Upload/upgrade the firmware using the # Open the DD-WRT's web interface in your web browser. Upload/upgrade the firmware using the
# Administration tab -> "Firmware Upgrade" button. # Administration tab -> "Firmware Upgrade" button.
-# Click "browse" button -> select the downloaded file -> click "Upgrade" button. It will take about 2-5 minutes to upload and write the flash. Your browser should reload when it is done.+# Click "browse" button -> select the downloaded file -> click "Upgrade" button. It will take about 2-5 minutes to upload and write the flash. Your browser should reboot when it is done.
-# Do a Restore Factory Default settings ([[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Clear NVRAM]]). Let the router reboot.+#*Admin page: Reset with Restore Factory Default settings. (Only necessary if coming from an old build)
-#*As an alternative to step 7, on the Upgrade page, select "Reset to Default settings" for "After flashing, reset to". This is to automatically reset to Factory Default settings when it reboots, but Step 7 is the recommended method.+#*Alternative: on the Upgrade page, select "Reset to Default settings" for "After flashing, reset to". This is to automatically reset to Factory Default settings when it reboots, though this may not be reliable.
 +* Note: For newer builds, please read the "New Build" or router-specific threads. See [https://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Index:FAQ#Where_do_I_download_firmware.3F Where do I download firmware] for more info on New build threads.
-* Note: For newer builds, please research the "New Build" or router-specific threads+==Restore to Asus Firmware==
 +#Download the latest ASUS firmware from the ASUS web site [http://www.asus.com/Networks/Wireless_Routers/RTN16/#download]. Or use [ftp://ftp.asus.com.tw/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-N16 FTP].
 +#Rename the Asus firmware file from .trx to .bin
 +#Do a Restore Factory Default settings to [[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Clear NVRAM]] in DD-WRT
 +#Go to the DD-WRT firmware upgrade page and select the renamed ASUS firmware
 +#After the flash finishes, and the router has rebooted, you see the ASUS GUI. If not, clear browser cache.
 +# Do a Factory Reset to clear the NVRAM using the Asus GUI
-==How to restore to factory firmware==+==Recovery Mode==
 +To access recovery mode, you MAY have to press the WPS button (not the reset button like other ASUS), then plug in power, and tftp the firmware you want to flash. Some people have reported that the reset button DOES work like the other ASUS routers to get it into recover mode. GUI Factory Reset before and after every flash to make sure you don't have any nvram problems or conflicts. On this router, the reset button only resets the nvram partition.
-#Download the latest ASUS firmware from the ASUS web site [http://www.asus.com/Networks/Wireless_Routers/RTN16/#download]. Or go to ftp://ftp.asus.com.tw/pub/ASUS/wireless/RT-N16 with a client FTP.+==De-Brick Methods==
-#Rename the asus file from .trx to .bin+# Hard reset to factory defaults by holding in the red WPS button while plugging in the power. [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=388920#388920 Eko Forum note]
-#Do a Restore Factory Default settings ([[Hard_reset_or_30/30/30|Clear NVRAM]]) while DD-WRT is still loaded on your router.+# Recovery mode, to upload a different firmware.
-#Go into the DD-WRT firmware upgrade page, set it to reset defaults, and select the ASUS firmware you renamed.+# Internal serial connector, using CFE commands. Use 3.3V TTL level signaling. For example: [http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9873 US shop] FTDI Serial Adapter is small and reliable, providing: Virtual serial port via PC USB to 3.3V-TTL (Rx, Tx) signaling. [http://www.skpang.co.uk/catalog/ftdi-basic-breakout-33v-p-443.html UK outlet]
-#After the flash finishes, and the router has re-booted, you see the ASUS GUI. +# Try to reset/reload the firmware using the [http://tjtag.com/ TJTAG] software and the internal [[JTAG_pinouts#Asus_RT-N16|JTAG]] connector.
-# Do a Factory Reset to clear the NVRAM (using the Asus web gui)+
-#Try to enjoy ASUS's firmware, and keep missing DD-WRT (fortunately you can just flash back to dd-wrt again when ever you want)+
- +
-=Current Known Issues and Bugs=+
- +
-* Hardware (capacitor) Fix for RT-N16 wireless drop-outs [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=902586]+
-* UPNP is currently not working for the RT-N16, so for now leave the feature disabled unless you want a full CPU Load. '''FIXED''' with SVN [http://svn.dd-wrt.com:8000/changeset/13527 trac Changeset #13527]+
- +
-* Access Restriction with MAC-Filter doesn't work on Asus RT-N16. '''FIXED''' [http://svn.dd-wrt.com:8000/ticket/1319 trac Ticket #1319] (as of 12/18/09)+
 +=Known Issues, Bugs, and Workarounds=
 +* Hardware fix (capacitor) for RT-N16 wireless drop-outs [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=902586]
 +* UPNP is currently not working for the RT-N16, so for now leave the feature disabled unless you want a full CPU Load. '''FIXED''' with SVN [http://svn.dd-wrt.com:8000/changeset/13527 Changeset #13527]
 +* Access Restriction with MAC-Filter doesn't work on Asus RT-N16. '''FIXED''' [http://svn.dd-wrt.com:8000/ticket/1319 Ticket #1319] (as of 12/18/09)
* On this router the reset button will only bring you to recovery mode. If you wish to restore defaults, use the Red WPS button while plugging power in. [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=388920#388920 Post By Eko] * On this router the reset button will only bring you to recovery mode. If you wish to restore defaults, use the Red WPS button while plugging power in. [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=388920#388920 Post By Eko]
 +* Rflow data reports only on upload traffic ([http://svn.dd-wrt.com:8000/ticket/1139 Ticket #1139]). Further discussion in [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=66571 this thread] (only affects those using/enabling Rflow).
 +* USB hard drives after build 15407: "The devs of dd-wrt have removed the loading of file system drivers from the startup of the firmware. They are now loaded on demand with automount. Well, this presents a problem for those of us with USB HDD that automount doesn't detect. In order to load the file system drivers at startup you need to add the following to save startup in the commands tab" for more, see [http://wiki.darkhaven.org/wiki/Asus_RT-N16 TechInfoDepot DD-WRT Notes]
-* Rflow data reports only on upload traffic ([http://svn.dd-wrt.com:8000/ticket/1139 Trac #1139]). Further discussed in [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=66571 this thread] (this issue only affects people actively using/enabling Rflow).+==NVRAM K2.6 Limitation==
- +'''This is included for historical reference. Use the installation instructions above to flash a K3X build.'''
-* This device only has 32K of NVRAM and using traff (Traffic graph in Status_Internet.asp) or UPnP will cause the NVRAM to fill up quickly. Once full, router functions like ddns will stop functioning and upon the next reboot the router will reset it self to firmware defaults. Disable traff and/or UPnP to prevent this or flush the traff stats occasionally.+* The RT-N16 only has 32K of NVRAM on k2.6 builds, and due to CFE limitations, some reported reboots and resets due to running out of NVRAM. K3X builds have expanded the default nvram partition via software.
-**Note on traff: Status -> WAN -> (at the buttom) Data Administration -> button "Delete" flushes the traff stats. Services -> Services -> WAN Traffic Counter -> ttraff Daemon: Disable -> Apply settings, will stop the collection of traff data. You may however just choose to reset/delete traff data every month, and the traff data will not take much room in the NVRAM+*However, getting K3X to run on this model can be tricky, `erase nvram` can cause a soft brick, requiring TFTP. redhawk0's procedure is [https://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=1066544#1066544 here], also read the RT-N16 Condensed thread starting [https://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=88118&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=240 here]
-**Note on UPnP: Access to UPnP settings: NAT/QoS -> UPnP. In newer builds (Spring 2012) UPnP is disabled by default.+
-**Note on 32k NVRAM. Tornado is working on a solution to change this setting to a 60/64k NVRAM setting (June 2012). See [http://www.techinfodepot.info/index.php/Main_Page techinfodepot.info] or contact tornado@tjtag.com to help out.+
-** Note on monitoring NVRAM usage. In newer builds (spring 2012) NVRAM usage/max is displayed on the front Web GUI at "Space Usage"+
-* USB HDs after Build 15407: "The devs of dd-wrt have removed the loading of file system drivers from the startup of the firmware. They are now loaded on demand with automount. Well, this presents a problem for those of us with USB HDD that automount doesn't detect. In order to load the file system drivers at startup you need to add the following to save startup in the commands tab" for more, see [http://www.techinfodepot.info/index.php/Asus_RT-N16#DD-WRT_Notes techinfodepot, Asus_RT-N16, DD-WRT Notes]+
- +
-=Other=+
- +
-==NVRAM near full?==+
-This device currently has only 32K of NVRAM available due to limitations within the CFE coding, and some users have reported their routers rebooting and resetting themselves due to NVRAM becoming overfilled. Save the following as a startup script, it will remove initialized variables that are stored in NVRAM and currently have no value assigned to them (This cleared up nearly 5K of NVRAM in my experience).+====NVRAM Usage Reduction====
 +*Using traff (Traffic graph in Status_Internet.asp) or UPnP will cause the NVRAM to fill up quickly, causing router functions like ddns to stop functioning. Upon the next reboot the router will reset it self to firmware defaults. Disable traff and/or UPnP to prevent this, or flush the traff stats occasionally.
 +*Note on traff: Status -> WAN -> (at the buttom) Data Administration -> button "Delete" flushes the traff stats. Services -> Services -> WAN Traffic Counter -> ttraff Daemon: Disable -> Apply settings, will stop the collection of traff data. You may however just choose to reset/delete traff data every month, and the traff data will not take much room in the NVRAM
 +*Note on UPnP: Access to UPnP settings: NAT/QoS -> UPnP. In newer builds (Spring 2012) UPnP is disabled by default.
 +*Note on monitoring NVRAM usage. In newer builds (spring 2012) NVRAM usage/max is displayed on the front Web GUI at "Space Usage"
 +====NVRAM Reduction Scripts====
 +*Save the following as a startup script, it will remove initialized variables that are stored in NVRAM and currently have no value assigned to them (This cleared up nearly 5K of NVRAM in my experience).
#!/bin/bash #!/bin/bash
rm /opt/tmp/nvramshow rm /opt/tmp/nvramshow
Line 163: Line 195:
exit 0 exit 0
-Here is another simpler version. instead of outputting to a file and checking each var if they are empty, we can easily use grep to find empty vars+Simpler version: Instead of outputting to a file to check if each var is empty, use grep to find empty vars:<br>
- +1. Check current size and empty var count
-check current size and empty var count+
root# nvram show | grep =$ | wc -l root# nvram show | grep =$ | wc -l
size: 30273 bytes (2495 left) size: 30273 bytes (2495 left)
414 414
- +2. Clean up
-clean up+
root# for line in `nvram show | grep =$ `; do var=${line%*=}; nvram unset $var; done root# for line in `nvram show | grep =$ `; do var=${line%*=}; nvram unset $var; done
- +*This can be saved as a startup script. Alternatively, to avoid further NVRAM usage, save to JFFS or USB with a JFFS partition. Save your script to /jffs/etc/config, give it a .startup extension, make it executable, then DD-WRT will run it after every boot.
-check again....+3. Check again....
root# nvram show | grep =$ | wc -l root# nvram show | grep =$ | wc -l
size: 24307 bytes (8461 left) size: 24307 bytes (8461 left)
0 0
- +4. Saved almost 6K
-saved almost 6K+
root# echo "$((8461 - 2495))" root# echo "$((8461 - 2495))"
5966 5966
-==Overclocking==+=Performance=
 +This is without SFE accelerated NAT.
 +<pre>
 +Test Description Throughput - (Mbps)
 +WAN - LAN 141.1
 +LAN - WAN 143.3
 +Total Simultaneous 155.9
 +Max. Connections 200
 +Firmware Version 1.0.0.6
 +</pre>
 +Sources: [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wireless/wireless-reviews/31058-asus-rt-n16-gigabit-n-router-reviewed?showall=&start=4] Testing methods: [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wireless/wireless-reviews/31058-asus-rt-n16-gigabit-n-router-reviewed?showall=&start=4], [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/lanwan/lanwan-howto/31103-how-we-test-hardware-routers-revision-3]
 +=Overclocking=
By factory default the cpu is clocked at 480 MHz and the Ram at 240 MHz. Overclocking at CPU 532 MHz / Ram 266 MHz can be achieved with these commands in a Telnet/SSH session : By factory default the cpu is clocked at 480 MHz and the Ram at 240 MHz. Overclocking at CPU 532 MHz / Ram 266 MHz can be achieved with these commands in a Telnet/SSH session :
*nvram set clkfreq=532,266 *nvram set clkfreq=532,266
Line 190: Line 230:
Note : Note :
 +*Not recommended: instability issues can arise from overclocking / overheating
*See also [[Overclocking BCM 47xx CPU's]] for more info *See also [[Overclocking BCM 47xx CPU's]] for more info
-*Proceed with caution: instability issues can arise from overclocking / overheating+*Adding a heat sink or fan to the SoC is recommended
-*Adding a heat sink to the SoC is recommended, and/or add a fan+
More information here (with pictures) to prevent overheating issues with heat sinks: More information here (with pictures) to prevent overheating issues with heat sinks:
Line 200: Line 240:
*http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=73175&highlight=rtn16 *http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=73175&highlight=rtn16
-==Recovery Mode==+=Links=
- +*[http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=61570 Original forum support thread (100 pages)] was [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=88118 condensed into a new support thread] for the RT-N16.
-This router does have a recovery mode if ever needed for flashing, and to access it, press the WPA button (not the reset button like other ASUS), then plug in power, and tftp the firmware you want to flash. Don't forget to do a Factory Reset in the GUI before and after every flash to make sure you don't have any nvram problems or conflicts. On this router reset button only resets the nvram partition. If you wish to use tftp to restore defaults, use the wps button while plugging power in.+*[http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=77149 Upgrading the power supply adapter] for higher current (amperage)
- +* [http://www.techinfodepot.info/index.php/Asus_RT-N16 RT-N16 @ techinfodepot]
-==If you have bricked your Asus RT-N16==+
-# You could try to Hardware reset it to Factory Defaults by holding in the red WPS button while plugging in the power. [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=388920#388920 Eko Forum note]+
-# You could try to use the Recovery mode, and upload a different firmware.+
-# You could use the serial connector (inside the router) and use CFE-level commands. Use 3.3V TTL level signaling. For example [http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9873 Sparkfun FTDI Serial adapter] (US shop) a small and very reliable unit providing: Virtual Serial port via PC USB to 3.3V-TTL (Rx, Tx) Serial signaling. [http://www.skpang.co.uk/catalog/ftdi-basic-breakout-33v-p-443.html UK outlet]+
-# You could try to reset/reload the firmware using the [http://tjtag.com/ TJTAG] software and the [[JTAG_pinouts#Asus_RT-N16|JTAG]] connector inside the router.+
- +
-==Upgrading the Power Supply==+
-A higher amperage about the power supply (adapter) for the Asus RT-N16 is possible. Please take a look at this : http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=77149+
- +
-= Performance =+
-<pre>+
-Test Description Throughput - (Mbps)+
-WAN - LAN 141.1+
-LAN - WAN 143.3+
-Total Simultaneous 155.9+
-Max. Connections 200+
-Firmware Version 1.0.0.6+
-</pre>+
-Sources: [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wireless/wireless-reviews/31058-asus-rt-n16-gigabit-n-router-reviewed?showall=&start=4] Testing methods: [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wireless/wireless-reviews/31058-asus-rt-n16-gigabit-n-router-reviewed?showall=&start=4], [http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/lanwan/lanwan-howto/31103-how-we-test-hardware-routers-revision-3]+
-=Links =+
-*[http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=61570 Forum: Support Thread (100 pages)] => [http://www.dd-wrt.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=88118 Condensed into one forum post] is also new RT-N16 Support Thread+
-* [http://www.techinfodepot.info/index.php/Asus_RT-N16 about RT-N16 @ techinfodepot]+
'''Reviews''' '''Reviews'''

Revision as of 06:09, 27 October 2018

Contents

Hardware

The ASUS RT-N16 is a single band (2.4 GHz) N300 Gigabit Router with 128MB RAM and 32MB Flash ROM. Note that SFE accelerated NAT (K3X build 33006+) is required to achieve high WAN speeds with an IPv4 SPI firewall. For speed tests without SFE, see Performance.

Hardware Specifications

RAM 128 MB (2*64MB): Samsung K4N511163QZ-HC25
or Samsung K4T51163QG-HCE6
Flash 32 MB (MACRONIX MX29GL256EHTI2I-90Q)
NVRAM 32K
CPU Broadcom 4716@480MHz[1] (Broadcom spec is 533)
USB ports USB2.0 x 2
Power Supply 12V - 1,25A max (Upgrading the Power Supply)
RJ-45 Ethernet Ports WAN (1), LAN (4), both 10/100/1000 Mb/s
Antennas 3 x external detachable 2dBi antennas
WiFi Frequency Range 2.4GHz ~ 2.5GHz
802.11n up to 300Mbps
802.11g up to 54Mbps
802.11b up to 11Mbps
Switch Chip Broadcom BCM53115SKFBG
LED Color Blue

[1] Run cat /proc/cpuinfo in a terminal (like puTTY) to get the full CPU details.

Main board

This shows the main board for the Asus RT N16 along with the location for the JTAG headers.
This shows the main board for the Asus RT N16 along with the location for the JTAG headers.

Install DD-WRT from Factory Firmware

Please note: Details of the DD-WRT firmware build variations are found here. More current build information can be found in the Peacock announcement thread. See Where do I download firmware? for links.

Overview

  • Restore Factory Default settings (Clear NVRAM)
  • Install the INITIAL trailed build 22118 K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx of DD-WRT
  • Restore Factory Default settings (Clear NVRAM) or via DD-WRT webGUI
  • Upgrade to the temporary 21530 K3X custom build (from 2013)
  • Restore Factory Default settings (Clear NVRAM), or via DD-WRT webGUI
  • Upgrade to recent working K3X mega or big build (*.trx and N16 in the name)

See Where do I download firmware for links and research New Build and model-specific threads.

Procedure

  1. Download the INITIAL trailed DD-WRT firmware: (2013) 22118 K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx Any current trailed build in the K26 series will work such as [1]
  2. Restore Factory Default settings in the Asus GUI. Asus factory default username/password is admin/admin. Let the router reboot. Plug the PC into a LAN port on the router and disconnect other connections.
  3. Flashing the INITIAL Firmware to the router (the one where the file name ends in .trx)
  4. Set the router in "Recover mode" (same as other Asus routers) With this router pull power, hold the reset button in then plug in power and look for the slow blink of the power light.
    • Use ASUS Firmware Restoration Utility to upload the new firmware (from router CD or here). or search for Asus Recovery Utility. Or use tftp under windows. (tested on windows 10 the command tftp -i 192.168.1.1 put dd-wrt.v24-36808_NEWD-2_K2.6_mini_RT-N16.trx works)
    • You need to set the PC to Static IP 192.168.1.2 (Static IP guide)
    • Set the router in recovery mode by holding in the reset button when plugging in the power. The power light should now be blinking slowly, meaning the router is in restore/recovery mode and ready for the new firmware. Upload and wait for the router to reset on its own (may take anywhere from 3 to 15 minutes).
    Note on Asus Recovery Utility: The recover utility is just a tftp server with added wait timer, but standard tftp tools can also be used to upload firmware. Just remember to do the proper 3 minutes or more wait for the unit to reboot itself, after the 10 to 30sec tftp completion. See: TFTP, ASUS TFTP
  5. After the reboot from flashing, wait for the device to show the password change screen for DD-WRT. Enter root as the user and anything for the password as you will do the user/pass procedure again after the final flash.
  6. Reset to Factory Settings.
    • Method A - Use the DD-WRT GUI. Go to Administration->Factory Defaults, click Yes then select Apply.
    • Method B - WPS button hard reset. The following procedure will clear out the NVRAM and set dd-wrt back to default values:
      • With the unit powered off, press and hold the Red WPS button on the back of the unit.
      • Without releasing the WPS button plug the power in, and hold the WPS button for 30 seconds
      • When releasing the WPS button the unit will reboot and Factory Default settings will be loaded.
    Note on Asus hardware reset for NVRAM clear: do not use the Reset button. See Eko's post
  7. Reset is recommended BEFORE and AFTER flashing and may be required for large jumps to avoid issues.
  8. Upgrade to the custom transition firmware dd-wrt.v24-21530_NEWD-2_K3.x_big.bin (Alt)
    • NOTE: 21530 is not a regular released beta build! This transition firmware repartitions the flash. Later firmware of this series DO NOT.
  9. Use the web GUI to upload. Administration->Firmware Upgrade and select Reset to Defaults.
  10. Upgrade to a recent working K3X big build from the betas folder, this time DO NOT reset settings.

See Where do I download firmware for links and research New Build and model-specific threads.

Note that you SHOULD NOT reset settings under any firmware beyond the transition firmware or you could render it unbootable necessitating starting over.

Firmware 36808 BIG K26 runs on this router. [2]

Congratulations! Please consider donating to DD-WRT as we are an open-source community providing free software to upgrade consumer routers with commercial-grade capabilities.

Also read Basic Wireless Settings and Advanced Wireless Settings to learn how to get the most WiFi data speed out of your new N-Router.

Troubleshooting

IF the router won't provide a Power LED after updating to the K3.x file...then there is a problem with the flash chip and it needs to be cleared (except the CFE). Issue the following commands via telnet/SSH or the Commands window under the Admin tab.

mtd erase nvram

mtd erase ddwrt

mtd erase linux

This will clear the flash chip...now start the process again with the K2.6 mini build

This is documented here: [3]

Notes about K3X

Do NOT issue "erase nvram" command from CLI...this unit only has 64K of nvram...the CLI thinks it has 128K and the firmware thinks its 256k...this means doing an "erase nvram" removed other parts of the flash chip (likely firmware partition "dd-wrt" or "linux")

Note: build 21530 seems to have wireless issues...it broadcasts the ssid...but you can't connect to it...however, if in repeater bridge mode, you can contact it through the host AP at the router's IP address.

There is a large thread with lots of info on this router here [4]

Notes

  • NAT Loopback (Port Forwarding) is broken in builds 15760-19969 (see this thread for a workaround)
    • 15962, 17990, & 18000 are Recommended Builds which would require this workaround
  • Special thanks to Eko for making the initial work on getting the RT-N16 to work with DD-WRT!

Upgrading DD-WRT

If DD-WRT is already loaded on your router, you can flash firmware using these steps

  1. Download firmware from one of the sites listed: Where do I download firmware
    • Go to the Broadcom K3X folder, then download the ***K3.x-big-RT-N16.bin file.
  2. Open the DD-WRT's web interface in your web browser and open http://192.168.1.1/ (the default).
    • Admin page: Reset with Restore Factory Default settings and let the router reboot. NOTE this may soft brick it! To be absolutely sure this does not happen you can login to the router and issue the mtd commands listed above and start over with the K6 trailed build on recovery mode followed by the special transition build.
  3. Open the DD-WRT's web interface in your web browser. Upload/upgrade the firmware using the
  4. Administration tab -> "Firmware Upgrade" button.
  5. Click "browse" button -> select the downloaded file -> click "Upgrade" button. It will take about 2-5 minutes to upload and write the flash. Your browser should reboot when it is done.
    • Admin page: Reset with Restore Factory Default settings. (Only necessary if coming from an old build)
    • Alternative: on the Upgrade page, select "Reset to Default settings" for "After flashing, reset to". This is to automatically reset to Factory Default settings when it reboots, though this may not be reliable.
  • Note: For newer builds, please read the "New Build" or router-specific threads. See Where do I download firmware for more info on New build threads.

Restore to Asus Firmware

  1. Download the latest ASUS firmware from the ASUS web site [5]. Or use FTP.
  2. Rename the Asus firmware file from .trx to .bin
  3. Do a Restore Factory Default settings to Clear NVRAM in DD-WRT
  4. Go to the DD-WRT firmware upgrade page and select the renamed ASUS firmware
  5. After the flash finishes, and the router has rebooted, you see the ASUS GUI. If not, clear browser cache.
  6. Do a Factory Reset to clear the NVRAM using the Asus GUI

Recovery Mode

To access recovery mode, you MAY have to press the WPS button (not the reset button like other ASUS), then plug in power, and tftp the firmware you want to flash. Some people have reported that the reset button DOES work like the other ASUS routers to get it into recover mode. GUI Factory Reset before and after every flash to make sure you don't have any nvram problems or conflicts. On this router, the reset button only resets the nvram partition.

De-Brick Methods

  1. Hard reset to factory defaults by holding in the red WPS button while plugging in the power. Eko Forum note
  2. Recovery mode, to upload a different firmware.
  3. Internal serial connector, using CFE commands. Use 3.3V TTL level signaling. For example: US shop FTDI Serial Adapter is small and reliable, providing: Virtual serial port via PC USB to 3.3V-TTL (Rx, Tx) signaling. UK outlet
  4. Try to reset/reload the firmware using the TJTAG software and the internal JTAG connector.

Known Issues, Bugs, and Workarounds

  • Hardware fix (capacitor) for RT-N16 wireless drop-outs [6]
  • UPNP is currently not working for the RT-N16, so for now leave the feature disabled unless you want a full CPU Load. FIXED with SVN Changeset #13527
  • Access Restriction with MAC-Filter doesn't work on Asus RT-N16. FIXED Ticket #1319 (as of 12/18/09)
  • On this router the reset button will only bring you to recovery mode. If you wish to restore defaults, use the Red WPS button while plugging power in. Post By Eko
  • Rflow data reports only on upload traffic (Ticket #1139). Further discussion in this thread (only affects those using/enabling Rflow).
  • USB hard drives after build 15407: "The devs of dd-wrt have removed the loading of file system drivers from the startup of the firmware. They are now loaded on demand with automount. Well, this presents a problem for those of us with USB HDD that automount doesn't detect. In order to load the file system drivers at startup you need to add the following to save startup in the commands tab" for more, see TechInfoDepot DD-WRT Notes

NVRAM K2.6 Limitation

This is included for historical reference. Use the installation instructions above to flash a K3X build.

  • The RT-N16 only has 32K of NVRAM on k2.6 builds, and due to CFE limitations, some reported reboots and resets due to running out of NVRAM. K3X builds have expanded the default nvram partition via software.
  • However, getting K3X to run on this model can be tricky, `erase nvram` can cause a soft brick, requiring TFTP. redhawk0's procedure is here, also read the RT-N16 Condensed thread starting here

NVRAM Usage Reduction

  • Using traff (Traffic graph in Status_Internet.asp) or UPnP will cause the NVRAM to fill up quickly, causing router functions like ddns to stop functioning. Upon the next reboot the router will reset it self to firmware defaults. Disable traff and/or UPnP to prevent this, or flush the traff stats occasionally.
  • Note on traff: Status -> WAN -> (at the buttom) Data Administration -> button "Delete" flushes the traff stats. Services -> Services -> WAN Traffic Counter -> ttraff Daemon: Disable -> Apply settings, will stop the collection of traff data. You may however just choose to reset/delete traff data every month, and the traff data will not take much room in the NVRAM
  • Note on UPnP: Access to UPnP settings: NAT/QoS -> UPnP. In newer builds (Spring 2012) UPnP is disabled by default.
  • Note on monitoring NVRAM usage. In newer builds (spring 2012) NVRAM usage/max is displayed on the front Web GUI at "Space Usage"

NVRAM Reduction Scripts

  • Save the following as a startup script, it will remove initialized variables that are stored in NVRAM and currently have no value assigned to them (This cleared up nearly 5K of NVRAM in my experience).
       #!/bin/bash
       rm /opt/tmp/nvramshow
       nvram show >> /opt/tmp/nvramshow
       i=0
       while read -r line; do
       val=${line#*=}
       var=${line%*=}
       if [[ "$val" == "" ]]; then
               nvram unset $var
       fi
       i=`expr $i + 1`
       if [[ $i == 50 ]]; then
               sleep 2
               i=0
       fi
       done < /opt/tmp/nvramshow
       exit 0

Simpler version: Instead of outputting to a file to check if each var is empty, use grep to find empty vars:
1. Check current size and empty var count

       root# nvram show  | grep =$ | wc -l
       size: 30273 bytes (2495 left)
       414

2. Clean up

       root# for line in `nvram show  | grep =$ `; do var=${line%*=}; nvram unset $var; done
  • This can be saved as a startup script. Alternatively, to avoid further NVRAM usage, save to JFFS or USB with a JFFS partition. Save your script to /jffs/etc/config, give it a .startup extension, make it executable, then DD-WRT will run it after every boot.

3. Check again....

       root# nvram show  | grep =$ | wc -l
       size: 24307 bytes (8461 left)
       0

4. Saved almost 6K

       root# echo "$((8461 - 2495))"
       5966

Performance

This is without SFE accelerated NAT.

Test Description	Throughput - (Mbps)
WAN - LAN	                 141.1
LAN - WAN	                 143.3
Total Simultaneous      155.9
Max. Connections         200
Firmware Version          1.0.0.6

Sources: [7] Testing methods: [8], [9]

Overclocking

By factory default the cpu is clocked at 480 MHz and the Ram at 240 MHz. Overclocking at CPU 532 MHz / Ram 266 MHz can be achieved with these commands in a Telnet/SSH session :

  • nvram set clkfreq=532,266
  • nvram get clkfreq [to verify]
  • nvram commit && reboot

Note :

  • Not recommended: instability issues can arise from overclocking / overheating
  • See also Overclocking BCM 47xx CPU's for more info
  • Adding a heat sink or fan to the SoC is recommended

More information here (with pictures) to prevent overheating issues with heat sinks:

Links

Reviews