MB86967 Datasheet, PDF (77/129 Pages) Fujitsu Component Limited. – LAN Controller with PC Card, ISA Bus, and General-purpose Bus Interfaces

MB86967
s SOFTWARE SUPPORT FOR POPULAR NETWORK OPERATING SYSTEMS
1. LAN Node Drivers
The so-called driver is the hardware-dependent portion of the software complement for a network node. It’s
purpose is to marry a specific hardware configuration to a more-or-less generic interface provided by the
networking software. Network software suppliers provide such generic interfaces for drivers to encourage
universal support from a variety of hardware products. By partitioning or layering the software into a stack of
components with standardized interfaces between the layers, the job of integrating various hardware and
software offerings with a particular network operating system becomes easier. More drivers will become
available, and everyone benefits.
As seen in Figure 9, which depicts a model of LAN node components, the driver sits between the generic network
software and the hardware, and acts as a bridge between the system and the node hardware. The interface of
the driver to the network software and its applications is a generic interface and virtually the same for all drivers
running on a given operating system. But the driver comprehends the configuration and nuances of the hardware,
and optimizes it’s performance in the system. A good, well-written driver is a positive advantage to the system,
allowing it to achieve its performance potential; whereas a poor driver will limit the performance and reliability
of the system.
The best drivers have a certain intimacy with the hardware, which allows them to take full advantage of its
features. High data throughput, data integrity, and reliable operation are the key goals for which every node-
driver writer should strive. In addition, the final driver should be efficient, by requiring minimum host execution
time. These are all things the end user will and should take for granted; if they are not supplied with the design,
there will be no customer satisfaction.
Most network software suppliers offer technical support for third-party driver development. This often comes in
the form of a developer’s kit that includes a manual and software examples. Some suppliers also offer test suites
and certification testing to verify the driver product, because they know that good drivers benefit both users and
suppliers.
Network
MB86967
Driver
IN Q
OUT Q
Network
Software
Figure 9 Model of LAN Node
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