Hi all. I've written a kernel module to support hotswapping of 'ultrabay' type IDE devices/batteries/floppies. So far it's only been tested on thinkpads, but it should be fairly generic. Should also allow you to keep DMA on your drive after swapping, which seems to be the major issue with all other solutions (except, of course, a reboot).

System requirements:
Kernel 2.6.15. It may work on .14. It's known not to work on .12.
Your 'bay' interface _must_ be on ide1, and it must also be the ONLY drive on ide1. If you have a laptop that doesn't mean this spec (or a dual-bay laptop), contact me.

Please, read the README in the package for more information. It _must_ be loaded after all other ACPI modules.

Also, note that it is, to some extent, a kludge, although it works. I have a proper solution in the works, but this is good for the time being.

Please send me a note with your laptop model and success/failure, either here or through SF.

http://sourceforge.net/projects/lths/

looks like a good addition. please do keep working on it.