Isaku Yamahata wrote: > On Fri, Jun 18, 2010 at 03:44:04PM +0300, Michael S. Tsirkin wrote: > > If we really want the ability to put unrelated devices > > as functions in a single one, let's just add > > a 'multifunction' qdev property, and validate that > > it is set appropriately. > > I think "unrelated" is policy. There is no obvious way to determine > which functions can be in a same device. > For example, popular chipset contains isa bridge, ide controller, > usb controller, sound and modem in a single device as functions. > It's up to hardware designer policy which functions are grouped into > a device.
In hardware terms, quad-port ethernet controllers often present themselves as a PCI bridge with four independent PCI ethernet controllers, so they work with standard drivers. Even though all four are in a single chip. Some USB devices do the same, presenting a small bulk storage device to ship windows drivers [:roll-eyes: ;-)] alongside the actual device. -- Jamie
