Which CPU arch is min for SMP kernel?

Merc_z · 08-31-2012, 11:02 AM

The slackware readme file suggests running smp kernel even in a single core processor system. How far back would be suggested? Pentium/ii/iii, p4???

GazL · 08-31-2012, 11:09 AM

I think you can go as far back as the pentium pro, but that's just from memory. SMP kernel used to work fine on an old P3-800 box I used to have.

Didier Spaier · 08-31-2012, 11:45 AM

The help text of upcoming Slackware 14' installer confirms GazL's answer:

Quote:

The default kernel is hugesmp.s, which requires ay least a Pentium Pro processor. If this kernel doesn't work for you, you may try the regular "huge.s" kernel, which supports i486 and better single CPU machines.

damgar · 08-31-2012, 02:21 PM

On a machine that never had issues with smp and a Celeron@ 2ghz I started getting "CPU temp above threshhold" after a recent -current upgrade. I can't be sure that it had anything to do with a newer kernel, but I didn't see it again when I switched to a non smp kernel. Having said that it is entirely possible it is just old hardware failing. I haven't left the machine on or used it much until I have time to thoroughly babysit it.

ReaperX7 · 08-31-2012, 06:27 PM

The SMP kernel will work fine on most older CPUs under the x86 umbrella. There are some it might have issues with so read the documentation carefully.

allend · 08-31-2012, 07:49 PM

For me, when the SMP kernel has failed to boot, it has been because the processor does not support the 'cmov' instruction.
You can check this by using 'cat /proc/cpuinfo' and looking at the 'flags' line. If you search for 'linux cpu flags' you can find further information.