Feature Request Uefi_x86 Oldlegacy 5.15 Discussion And Solutions

Introduction

In this article, we will delve into a feature request concerning the integration of the 5.15 kernel into the Armbian build system, specifically for the uefi_x86 oldlegacy configuration. This request stems from the need for supporting proprietary NVIDIA graphics card drivers, which are known to be compatible with the 5.15 kernel. The user's attempt to reintroduce this kernel version involved retrieving the configuration file from Armbian 23.11 and modifying the relevant include files. However, the resulting image failed to boot beyond GRUB, highlighting the complexities involved in such modifications. We will explore the user's approach, the challenges encountered, and potential solutions, including the creation of an oldlegacy build target. This discussion aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue and potential paths forward for the Armbian community.

Background on Kernel 5.15 and NVIDIA Driver Support

The Linux kernel 5.15 holds significant importance for users requiring support for proprietary NVIDIA graphics card drivers. These drivers often have specific kernel version dependencies, and 5.15 is a known compatible version for many NVIDIA cards. For those in the Armbian community who rely on NVIDIA hardware, having a stable and functional 5.15 kernel option is crucial. This compatibility allows users to leverage the full potential of their graphics cards, whether for gaming, professional applications, or other GPU-intensive tasks. The desire to reintroduce this kernel version into the Armbian build system is a direct response to the need for this NVIDIA driver support.

When considering kernel versions, it's essential to understand the trade-offs involved. Newer kernels often bring performance improvements, security patches, and support for the latest hardware. However, older kernels like 5.15 may offer better stability or compatibility with specific drivers or applications. In this case, the user's focus on 5.15 is driven by the need for NVIDIA driver support, highlighting a practical consideration that outweighs the benefits of newer kernel versions. The challenge, then, lies in integrating this older kernel into the Armbian build system in a way that is both functional and maintainable.

User's Attempt and the Challenges Faced

The user's approach to reintroducing the 5.15 kernel involved a series of manual steps, demonstrating a good understanding of the Armbian build system's structure. They began by retrieving the linux-uefi-x86-legacy.config file from Armbian 23.11, which likely contained the necessary configurations for the 5.15 kernel. This file serves as the blueprint for the kernel build process, specifying which modules and features are included. By using this existing configuration, the user aimed to minimize the risk of introducing new issues.

Next, the user modified the uefi_common.inc file, specifically the KERNEL_MAJOR_MINOR variable. This variable dictates the kernel version used during the build process. By changing it to "5.15", the user instructed the build system to use the 5.15 kernel sources. This step is crucial in directing the build process towards the desired kernel version. However, simply changing this variable is not always sufficient, as other parts of the build system may have dependencies or assumptions based on newer kernel versions.

Despite these efforts, the resulting image failed to boot beyond GRUB. This indicates a fundamental issue preventing the kernel from loading and initializing. GRUB (Grand Unified Bootloader) is responsible for loading the kernel into memory, and if the boot process stalls at this stage, it suggests a problem with the kernel image itself or the boot configuration. This could be due to various factors, such as missing drivers, incorrect kernel configuration, or incompatibilities with the bootloader.

Potential Solutions and the Oldlegacy Build Target

To address the booting issue, several potential solutions can be explored. One approach is to meticulously review the kernel configuration and ensure that all necessary drivers and modules are included. This may involve comparing the configuration with a known working 5.15 configuration or consulting the kernel documentation for specific hardware requirements. Additionally, checking the GRUB configuration for any errors or misconfigurations is crucial. The bootloader needs to be correctly configured to load the kernel and pass the appropriate parameters.

Another potential solution involves examining the build logs for any error messages or warnings. These logs can provide valuable clues about what went wrong during the build process. Identifying and addressing these issues can often resolve the booting problem. Furthermore, ensuring that all dependencies are correctly installed and that the build environment is properly configured is essential for a successful build.

The user's suggestion to create an oldlegacy build target is a promising approach. This would involve creating a separate build configuration specifically for older kernels like 5.15. This allows for a cleaner separation of concerns and avoids potential conflicts with newer kernel versions. An oldlegacy target would also enable the Armbian team to maintain and support older kernels for users who require them, such as those needing NVIDIA driver support. This approach aligns with the needs of a segment of the Armbian community and provides a more sustainable solution for long-term support.

Steps to Create an Oldlegacy Build Target

Creating an oldlegacy build target in Armbian requires careful planning and execution. The first step involves duplicating the existing uefi_x86-legacy configuration and renaming it to uefi_x86-oldlegacy. This provides a starting point for the new target, ensuring that it inherits the basic settings and structure of the legacy configuration.

Next, the kernel configuration needs to be adjusted to use the 5.15 kernel. This involves modifying the KERNEL_MAJOR_MINOR variable in the uefi_common.inc file, as the user initially attempted. However, it's crucial to also ensure that all other kernel-related settings are compatible with 5.15. This may involve adjusting module versions, compiler flags, and other kernel-specific options. Thorough testing is essential to ensure that the resulting kernel is stable and functional.

In addition to the kernel configuration, the bootloader configuration may also need adjustments. Older kernels may require different boot parameters or have specific bootloader requirements. Reviewing the GRUB configuration and making any necessary changes is crucial for ensuring a successful boot process. This may involve updating the GRUB version or modifying the boot entries to correctly load the 5.15 kernel.

Finally, the build scripts and tools may need to be updated to support the new oldlegacy target. This involves adding the new target to the build system's configuration and ensuring that all scripts correctly handle the new target. This step is essential for integrating the oldlegacy target into the Armbian build process and making it available to users.

Funding Considerations

The user's willingness to cover expenses highlights the importance of community support in open-source projects like Armbian. Developing and maintaining a new build target, such as oldlegacy, requires significant time and effort. Funding can help offset the costs associated with development, testing, and maintenance. This can include compensating developers for their time, covering infrastructure costs, and funding hardware for testing.

Community funding can take various forms, including donations, sponsorships, and grants. By contributing financially, users can directly support the features and improvements they need. This collaborative approach ensures that Armbian can continue to evolve and meet the diverse needs of its user base. The user's offer to cover expenses demonstrates a commitment to the project and a recognition of the value of community-driven development.

Conclusion

The feature request to reintroduce kernel 5.15 for the uefi_x86 oldlegacy configuration in Armbian is a valid and important one. The need for NVIDIA driver support drives this request, highlighting the practical considerations that influence kernel choices. The user's attempt to manually integrate 5.15, while unsuccessful, demonstrates a clear understanding of the build system and the challenges involved.

The suggestion to create an oldlegacy build target is a promising solution. This would provide a dedicated configuration for older kernels, ensuring better maintainability and support for users who require them. Implementing this target requires careful planning and execution, including adjusting kernel configurations, bootloader settings, and build scripts.

Community support, including funding, plays a crucial role in the success of open-source projects like Armbian. The user's willingness to cover expenses underscores the importance of this support and its impact on the project's ability to deliver valuable features and improvements. By working together, the Armbian community can address the need for 5.15 support and continue to provide a flexible and powerful operating system for a wide range of hardware.

Next Steps

Moving forward, the Armbian community should consider the following steps to address this feature request:

1. Evaluate the feasibility of creating an oldlegacy build target. This involves assessing the resources required, the potential impact on the build system, and the long-term maintainability of the target.
2. Develop a detailed plan for implementing the oldlegacy target. This plan should outline the specific steps required, including configuration changes, script modifications, and testing procedures.
3. Seek community contributions to support the development effort. This can include code contributions, testing assistance, and financial support.
4. Thoroughly test the oldlegacy target once it is implemented. This ensures that it is stable, functional, and meets the needs of users requiring older kernels.
5. Provide clear documentation on how to use the oldlegacy target. This helps users to easily build and deploy images with the 5.15 kernel.

By taking these steps, the Armbian community can effectively address the feature request and provide a valuable option for users needing NVIDIA driver support and other benefits of the 5.15 kernel. The collaborative approach, combined with careful planning and execution, will ensure the success of this endeavor and strengthen Armbian's position as a leading operating system for embedded devices.

Community Discussion

The Armbian community plays a vital role in shaping the project's direction and priorities. Open discussions like this feature request are essential for gathering feedback, sharing ideas, and fostering collaboration. Community members are encouraged to share their thoughts, experiences, and suggestions regarding the oldlegacy build target and the integration of the 5.15 kernel.

This discussion should focus on key aspects such as:

• The specific use cases for the 5.15 kernel and the benefits it provides.
• The potential challenges and risks associated with maintaining an oldlegacy target.
• The best approach for implementing the target, including configuration options and build processes.
• The level of support and maintenance that can be provided for the oldlegacy target.
• The ways in which community members can contribute to the effort, including code, testing, and funding.

By actively participating in these discussions, community members can help to ensure that the oldlegacy target is implemented in a way that meets the needs of the Armbian user base and aligns with the project's goals. The collective knowledge and experience of the community are invaluable assets in this process.

Final Thoughts

The journey to integrate the 5.15 kernel into Armbian's uefi_x86 oldlegacy configuration is a testament to the dynamic and collaborative nature of open-source development. This feature request highlights the importance of catering to diverse user needs, particularly in hardware compatibility and driver support. The potential creation of an oldlegacy build target signifies a commitment to providing long-term solutions for users with specific requirements.

As the Armbian community moves forward with this initiative, the principles of careful planning, thorough testing, and open communication will be paramount. The success of the oldlegacy target will not only benefit users seeking NVIDIA driver support but also strengthen Armbian's reputation as a versatile and user-centric operating system. This endeavor exemplifies the power of community-driven innovation and the dedication of open-source developers to meeting the evolving needs of their users.