Open Data Link Interface
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The Open Datalink Interface (ODI) specification was defined to simplify driver development and to provide support for multiple protocol drivers on a single network adapter. |
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ODI allows Novell Netware drivers to be written without concern for the protocol driver that will be used to communicate with them. |
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Parts of ODI |
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1) Protocol Driver |
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The ODI version of the IPX/SPX, Protocol IPXODI.COM is used to communicate between the LSL and the applications. |
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2) Link Support Layer (LSL.COM) |
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The Link Support Layer provides a foundation for the MAC driver to communicate with multiple protocol drivers. |
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LSL.COM performs functions similar to the protocol manager in NDIS. |
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3) Multiple Link Interface Driver (MLID) |
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The (MLID) is the component that communicates with the adapter and the LSL. |
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This is the hardware dependent code created by the adapter card manufacturer. This code usually carries the name of the supported adapter. |