= Understanding the Linux Kernel Initcall Mechanism =
== Creating Dynamic Function-Pointer Call Tables ==
by Trevor Woerner (twoerner AT gmail DOT com)

=== Abstract ===
While browsing through the Linux kernel, I came upon a technique for creating a segment of function pointers which can be called at a later time in the order that they are inserted into the segment. The kernel uses this mechanism to call device driver initialization routines at boot-up. I had a hard time finding clear information about what was going on and how it worked. After much googling (and some code doodling) I understand what is happening. This paper is an attempt at putting what I understand of this process down on paper so others may hopefully find it useful.

'''NOTE: This technique depends on, and requires the use of, the GNU compiler and linker tools. Additionally, the ELF binary executable format must be used. This is not a general-puropse ANSI-C compliant technique.'''

=== Table of Contents ===
 * [wiki:Self:InitcallMechanism/Introduction Introduction]
 * [wiki:Self:InitcallMechanism/Motivation Motivation]
 * [wiki:Self:InitcallMechanism/BackgroundInformation Background Information]
 * [wiki:Self:InitcallMechanism/SimpleExamples Simple Examples]
 * [wiki:Self:InitcallMechanism/HowItWorks How It Works]
 * [wiki:Self:InitcallMechanism/KernelToCode From the Kernel to Stand-Alone Code]
 * [wiki:Self:InitcallMechanism/References References]