Methods and apparatus for controlling a data stream using a host agent acting on behalf of a host computer

摘要

A data communications device has a controller which includes means for intercepting a request signal transmitted from a source to a host computer having a host destination address. The request signal includes the host destination address. The request signal is originally destined for receipt by a host computer that would respond with control information for controlling a manner in which the source transfers a data stream. The controller further includes means for originating a control signal in response to receiving the request signal. The control signal includes the control information for controlling the manner in which the source transfers the data stream. The controller further includes means for providing the control signal to the source to individually control the manner in which the source transfers the data stream among multiple data streams transferred by the source. The source is a routing mechanism operating within the data communications device.