Compiling new kernel. What about new modules?
 

Hi guys and gals,

I'm trying to compile a kernel 2.6.28 that will be configured specifically for my eeepc 1000ha. There isn't much you can do to a laptop, so I see no reason to have all those extra modules for hardware that I don't need. Also 2.6.28 has some good drivers for the wireless card and graphics that I want to try out.

My questions are 1) how do I install the required modules for my hardware? 2) how do I know the exact name of the modules for my hardware?

Extra Info: Debian 5.0 and I've already configured the kernel... just need to compile and install. I will be using the "Debian Way" to compile the kernel using make-kpkg and installing the .deb file.

When you get to the step:
navigate through the menu to get to the drivers. You'll get a list of device names to choose from. Make sure the hardware you have is selected.

OK. That's the simple part. Now I haven't been successful in the past with kernels... so I'm being gun-shy and cautious.

So basically I compile and install and everything is taken care of? I reboot in the new kernel and all the modules I "need" will be installed and everything?

The idea is that when you boot into your new kernel it will scan your hardware and enable the necessary modules. If you have a working kernel and just want to add some additional functionality, load the .config file of the working kernel to menuconfig and base your selection on it.

Is there any specific piece of hardware that you have problems with?

kernel 2.6.28 eeepc 1000ha hardware
 

The two pieces of hardware that I'm hoping to add functionality for are the atheros5007 wireless pci card (I may have the name slightly incorrect - I'm basing it on memory). Windows gets the card correct, linux guesses incorrectly. It works in linux, but I'm hoping to add some functionality - maybe it will help clear up some very minor issues I'm having.

Also I want to add functionality for the Intel 945GM graphics chipset. Hopefully this will allow me to use a virtual resolution with Xorg. Ubuntu allowed me to have a virtual resolution, in debian it does not. I found a firmware fix somewhere but it was rather confusing and complicated. It has something to do with the firmware on the card being programed to only allow certain resolutions and you have to trade on set of resolutions (ie: 600x480) for a larger resolution. It was strange. I believe right now it is using the Intel 915 drivers. Again, it works... but I want to tinker.

I just finished compiling and installing... I am going to give it a go...