Re: [RFD w/info-PATCH] device arguments from lookup, partion code

Paul Fulghum
2001-05-20T23:59:47Z

>> 90% of drivers contain code written by stupid gits.
>
> From: "Alan Cox"
> I think thats a very arrogant and very mistaken view of the problem. 90%
> of the driver are written by people who are
>
> - Copying from other drivers
> - Using the existing API's to make their job easy
> - Working to timescales
> - Just want it to work

I'll be the first to admit there is some ugliness in my driver.

Some originates from accepted methods when the
driver originated. (points 1 and 2 above)

Some comes from doing new things with only the
existing infrastructure, because changing the infrastructure
is deemed too intrusive. (points 3 and 4 above)
Stable infrastructure is good, but sometimes ugliness results.

Some is the result of genuine mistakes (people who
have written nothing but perfect code flame away).
I fix these as they are found through use and review,
and the code improves. (I *really do* want my driver to work!)

As new facilities and guidelines are made available,
I *gladly* and *gratefully* use them, and the code improves.

Calling driver writers stupid and devising punitive measures
to 'cause them pain' seems less useful.

Paul Fulghum paulkf@microgate.com
Microgate Corporation http://www.microgate.com