Device Drivers
The kernel depends on individual pieces of software to control each individual piece of hardware, called device drivers. Device drivers allow an external piece of hardware to communicate with the computer (e.g., printer, camera, mp3 player, etc.) Device drivers contain instructions, like a manual for the kernel, on how to make the hardware perform a requested function. When the OS needs a hardware device to perform a task, it calls upon the appropriate driver, which then “drives” the device to accomplish the task.
There are device drivers available for all types of hardware components. They are often specialized for things like video cards, network adapters, input devices and sound cards. Some of the most common categories of hardware include:
- Video Cards
- Network Adapters
- Input Devices
- Sound Cards
OSs typically use basic drivers that will simply make devices work, but not operate at their full potential. To fully use a device, the user should locate the latest available device driver (either from an included disc, or from the vendor’s website).
