Linux will work with standard IDE, MFM and RLL controllers. When using
MFM/RLL controllers it is important to use ext2fs and the bad block
checking options when formatting the disk.
Enhanced IDE (EIDE) interfaces are supported. With up to two IDE
interfaces and up to four hard drives and/or CD-ROM drives. Linux will
detect these EIDE interfaces:
CMD-640 (Support for buggy interfaces in kernel 2.2)
DTC 2278D
FGI/Holtek HT-6560B VLB (Support for secondary interface in kernel 2.2)
RZ1000 (Support for buggy interfaces in kernel 2.2)
Triton I (82371FB) (with busmaster DMA)
Triton II (82371SB) (with busmaster DMA)
ESDI controllers that emulate the ST-506 (MFM/RLL/IDE) interface will
also work. The bad block checking comment also applies to these controllers.
Generic 8 bit XT controllers also work.
Starting with pre-patch-2.0.31-3 IDE/ATAPI is provided.