Arch Linux

Zen:Core

Member

From: De Soto, KS

Registered: 2010-03-26

Posts: 16

[Solved] How do I use multiple kernels?

Hi all I just joined the Arch forums. The subject line is kind of generic, but what I'm exactly trying to do is add an optional RT Kernel to my setup. I come from more of a Debian/ Ubuntu based background where that type of stuff is automated. You know you install a Kernel and Grub sees it, but it gets left in boot folder limbo never to be used again. Arch updating a kernel through image is awesome BTW, no more unused sources and all.

So, let me run this down. If I install an RT kernel from the AUR or compile my own will it replace my current image in my boot folder? Or will it just populate a new image and then all I have to do is modify my menu.lst and point Grub to it?

I googled and searched the wiki, but either I searched the wrong thing or I'm just a ding-dong.

Thanks in advance!

Last edited by Zen:Core (2010-03-26 19:46:35)

brisbin33

Member

From: boston, ma

Registered: 2008-07-24

Posts: 1,796

Website

Re: [Solved] How do I use multiple kernels?

most kernels should create their own versions of all the needed files.  a default install already has a kernel and a kernel-fallback available.  i myself have added the -ck kernel.  you just have to edit menu.lst to create the appropriate entries.  here's mine as an example:

# Config file for GRUB - The GNU GRand Unified Bootloader
# /boot/grub/menu.lst

# snip

# (0) Arch Linux
title  Arch Stock
root   (hd0,0)
kernel /vmlinuz26 root=/dev/disk/by-uuid/692aea7d-24d6-4a17-8de2-f8b208b72969 ro vga=0x031b
initrd /kernel26.img

# (1) CK Patches
title CK Patches
root (hd0,0)
kernel /vmlinuz26-ck root=/dev/disk/by-uuid/692aea7d-24d6-4a17-8de2-f8b208b72969 ro vga=0x031b
initrd /kernel26-ck.img

# (2) Arch Linux
title  Arch Fallback
root   (hd0,0)
kernel /vmlinuz26 root=/dev/disk/by-uuid/692aea7d-24d6-4a17-8de2-f8b208b72969 ro
initrd /kernel26-fallback.img

note the *.img lines.

---

//github/

Zen:Core

Member

From: De Soto, KS

Registered: 2010-03-26

Posts: 16

Re: [Solved] How do I use multiple kernels?

Thank you brisbin33! I just wasn't sure if I would have to do something special. I guess that's what I get for over thinking things. KISS with emphasis on the last S in my case.

Thanks again!