Loading different device drivers for one device

摘要

An embodiment enables an operating system to load multiple device drivers for a single device without interfering in the operations of the device. Multiple device drivers may be needed in order to communicate with the device. In one embodiment, a device, such as disk drive, is configured to present its identification information in multiple forms that are functionally analogous. The disk drive is configured to provide its serial number in different forms that convert to a same identification. For example, the disk drive may provide its serial number using different cases, such as uppercase or lowercase text. The difference in is transparent to software applications, and thus, does not affect the operations of the device. However, the different forms of the serial number are reported to the operating system as different numbers, and thus, enable the operating system to load different device drivers for the same device.

主权项

1. A method of enabling multiple device drivers for a single device coupled to a host, said method comprising:
receiving, via an interface between a host and a device, a query from the host for identification information from the device: selecting, by the device, one of a plurality of versions of a same value of an alphanumeric identification information based on the query and the interface; and providing, by the device, the selected version of the same identification information to the host, wherein the host is configured to load a device driver for the device responsive to the selected version of the same identification information.