Kernel upgrade question
 

I have installed Madrake 9.0, but I now need to compile kernel 2.4.20 to replace my 2.4.19-16 in order for my Alcatel Speed Touch usb modem to work. I' m a newbie, but i managed to figure out how to do this using 'xconfig', but there does have something bothering me. I know that I can use 'menu oldconfig' to keep my actual kernel settings. Can i run 'x config' after that to do the changes i need to make? My first try with 'x config' did a compilation that went smoothly, but i couldnot boot cuz 'EBGA (something) was too big'. After a re-install and a second attempt, my FAT32 drives we not mounted. 3rd attempt, my mouse did not move. Somehow, i keep messing with the settingsand blowing up my system. I know that Linux is a gr8 learning tool, but if someone could help me to compile the new kernel with "my actual settings + a few changes" that would be gr8. The only reason i'm sticking to Winblows is that i do not have internet connection under Linux. And just like a Porsche without engine, my Linux without internet is lovely but dull. Pls, help me outta the "Gates' Windows".

so where are you upto? did you eventually get your fat drives mounted?
anyways, if you use a usb mouse you have tick input core support and mouse support.

Well, up to now, i haven't touched that kernel again. i'm hoping to get some advise before messing with it. i'd like to try the 'make oldconfig' and load my actual configuration (just like it said :)) then 'make xconfig' to change only the settings i need to change, but i'm just a little afraid that it would not work and would only take the 'make config' into consideration. i would certainly have to reinstall Mandrake, and though it doesn't take much time... i'd rather have another option.

Yes, you can do a make oldconfig and then make xconfig.

cool... i'll try it then... just wanted it to be confirmed by someone first... if this works, i'll owe you one. thx

I did a try with 'make oldconfig' then 'make xconfig'. when i do 'make dep' there is an error about an "unappropriate pointing device type." then 'make bzImage' says that its too big. I stoped there as I do not want to mess it up again yet. I've been thinking about changing my Alcatel Speed Touch USB to a connection by hub, but the hardware only would cost me 2months of my salary, so, maybe i'll wait for a distribution including at least kernel 2.4.20. i must say that i got used to mandrake as my geforce4 and my tvtuner works well with it. i was just so close to drop windows.