Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will this patch be backported to Linux 2.2 kernels?

This patch will not be backported to Linux 2.2 kernels at this time. To properly implement packet writing, we feel many of the features provided by the block device layer in the 2.4 kernel series are necessary; these features are included in 2.4, but do not exist in 2.2. A back port is not technically impossible, but in our estimation, the amount of time required to develop such a backport outweighs the benefit.

Packet writing supports two kinds of packets, fixed-length and variable-length. Are both packet types supported?

At this time, only fixed-length packets are supported. Support for variable-length packets will be introduced in the future and is included in the development plan (TODO list) for this project.

Will this patch work with my drive?

It should, provided that the drive is MMC/Mt Fuji compliant and supports the packet writing method (as supposed to disc-at-once and track-at-once). Please check manufacturer specifications for your drive.

Are both CD-R and CD-RW supported?

At this time, only CD-RW is supported. Once the stability of the CD-RW support has been established, CD-R support will be added.

I built a kernel with this patch and have it running. What should I do next?

Please read the instructions (INSTALL file) provided with the patch. The instructions for the most recent version of the patch are available on this website.

Where can I find out more about Linux kernel development?

One excellent source of information about development of the Linux kernel is the KernelNewbies website and the #kernelnewbies channel on the Open Projects IRC Network (OPN).

Help! I need support!

Support for this patch is provided on the mailing list for this project.

Help! I need report a bug!

Please report bugs found in this patch (or its interaction with other software) using our bug tracking system.