how a device get detected in linux?

shahina.shaik · 04-12-2011, 02:20 AM

In linux when we connect a device, how it is going to be detected by the kernel.

Walter.Stroebel · 04-12-2011, 02:22 AM

Check the command dmesg when you plug and unplug the device for interesting information.
The commands lshal and lspci might give more information as well.

EDDY1 · 04-12-2011, 02:23 AM

What type of device? some have to be seen on boot and some when plugged.

shahina.shaik · 04-12-2011, 02:27 AM

Wow....great response...thanks..i just joined LQ.

I wanted to the internal information in depth, like how exactly kernel identifies a device(any device)from a kernel level.
For example, i connected a USB device. the kernel will detect it and display a msg to user that new device found. How it is finding it??

EDDY1 · 04-12-2011, 02:46 AM

Unlike windows linux has a library of drivers (modules) ready to be loaded when needed if you don't have them there's usually a message on the system to let you know what is needed.
Some of the items needed that aren't installed are from non-free and you have to enable in /etc/apt/sources.list.
Good luck on the journey.

frankbell · 04-12-2011, 07:33 PM

Open a terminal and type man udev[enter].

That's good introduction to the tech.

You might also look at this: http://www.makelinux.net/kernel_map