A/UX: When It Builds a New Kernel


Article Change History
----------------------
04/30/92 - REVIEWED
* For technical accuracy


Sometimes A/UX automatically builds a new kernel when I change the
hardware configuration (different CPU type, more memory, new Ethernet
card). Other times it doesn't, and just starts fine on the new
configuration.

When and why does A/UX decide to build a new kernel?

In general, A/UX rebuilds a new kernel for the following reasons:

- Someone has removed the existing NuBus card (which has driver like ae6 in
kernel) such as Ethernet or EtherTalk card, or SuperMac Comm Card, and
replaces it into a DIFFERENT slot.

- Someone adds a new NuBus card (with the driver that came with A/UX) onto
the system.

- Someone issues a "newconfig" command.

If you move an A/UX drive onto a different CPU and the NuBus card matches
the one in A/UX, then A/UX won't rebuild its kernel when it starts.
Otherwise, it should rebuild a new kernel to match the existing hardware.

Adding or removing memory doesn't require a new kernel rebuild. A/UX
automatically recognizes its available memory size at startup.

Adding or removing video cards doesn't require a new kernel either since
there is no new driver in A/UX to configure.

Published Date: Feb 18, 2012