A method and apparatus for selecting the optimum ability between a computer system and a peripheral device

摘要

A host computer system selects optimal matching capabilities supported by both the host computer system and a peripheral device coupled to the computer system. Capabilities include video display device capabilities such as the display resolution. In one embodiment, upon detecting a triggering event such as a power-up, the computer system sends a request for a preferred range of capabilities supported by said peripheral device using a predetermined protocol. If the device is capable of communicating using the predetermined protocol, the device responds by sending its preferred range of capabilities. Next, the host computer compares the preferred range of capabilities with a corresponding range of capabilities supported by said computer system, and attempts to select an optimal matching capability between the preferred range of capabilities and the corresponding range of capabilities. In this example, if there is an optimal match, the computer system begins to provide a video signal using the optimal resolution. Otherwise, the computer system will provide a video signal using a default resolution.