Patent ID: 6678754
Filing Date: 2004-01-13
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A method for generating scatter/gather lists comprising the steps of:a) providing a list segment for storing scatter/gather entries wherein said list segment has an associated size; b) providing a vector of descriptors used to generate scatter/gather entries; c) providing a number of remaining entries in said vector of descriptors; d) generating a number of scatter/gather entries into said list segment wherein said maximum number is determined in accordance with said size of said list segment; e) determining whether additional entries of said number of remaining entries need to be generated; f) returning successful completion status to the invoking function in response to a determination that no said additional entries need be generated; g) performing steps h) through j) in response to a determination that a number of said additional entries need be generated; h) allocating a new list segment having a new associated size; i) adjusting said number of remaining entries and said vector of descriptors in accordance with said number of scatter/gather entries generated; and j) recursively invoking steps a) through j) using said new list segment and using said new associated size and using said number of remaining entries as adjusted and using said vector of descriptors as adjusted.