What is exactly the HCL?

[Guest]

I am looking for a list that would enable me to find out if such or such a
device could be installed on WINXP or WIN2K without having to provide a
Driver Floppy or CD.
In other words, a list that would tell me if WINXP or WIN2K System-supplied
Drivers contain the proper drivers for my Device!

I thought that the HCL (Hardware Compatibility List) had that purpose.
But I am wondering now if the HCL includes info about devices that can be
installed on WINXP or WIN2K and that do not harm the OS or if it is the
inventory of only the devices that have their drivers as system-supplied
drivers.

Would someone know the answer about this question?
Thanks in advance for any help!
Julien.

 

[Guest]

In most cases,open windows update,administrator options,update catalog,
search for the device type,locate brand,chk for updates,if its WHQL
supported,
it's listed...

 

[Guest]

Andrew,

first thanks for your answer.
But the thing is that I made a test to check if the WHQL could help me out.
On many of my DELL PCs, I've got the following NIC:
3Com 3C920 Integrated Fast Ethernet Controller (3C905C-TX Compatible)

This is a NIC that has its drivers built-in WINXP!
But if I search for it on the WHQL, it is not listed!

So I guess I have to keep looking for the REAL list!
Does anyone know if that exist or nor?
When you deploy Images or OS via RIS or something else, that is essential to
know if PC Devices's Drivers are included or not, isn't it?

Please HELP!!