Obtaining VIA Datasheets? 32
driv3l asks: "This is totally frustrating! I'm trying to write some drivers for my Epia M10000 with a CLE266 chipset (VT8235 southbridge and VT8623 northbridge). The problem is that I can't get datasheets or info on any of the Via chipsets. I have a driver that works on my Intel ICH4 (knock Intel as much as you want... at least they're forthcoming with their technology). The Via datasheets request page does not work, and from what I've heard it's damn near impossible to get datasheets from them. I dislike looking through other people's source code, so looking through Linux drivers is counterproductive for me, especially since the driver I'm developing is not for Linux...or Windows, for that matter. This project is on its last legs due to the frustration I have been experiencing. Does anyone have any suggestions on how I can solve this problem or how I can go about obtaining the necessary datasheets?"
Letters. (Score:2, Insightful)
Then, looking at their who's who corporate page find the closest things to their technical department, and customer service department. If they take longer than a week to respond to your e-mail with something that isn't computer generated, write a letter.
The first paragraph should be high, how ya doing, I enjoy consuming your products. The seconds should be, but not so much this time around, and here's why. The third might use the slow e-response as a transition, into, "I'm a little worried. I'd appreciate attention. Thank you for your time." Naturally, a classic sign off and signiture to close things out.
This response might take quite a while longer. And should be addressed probably to both the technical and customer people, and the vice presidents of their divisions. After all, it's not just the plans you're having trouble with.
You might not get the response you wish, but I'd actually be surprised if you didn't, and truly shocked if you didn't get any sort of reply.
If they help you out, I'd probably write a "thank you" letter too.