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Date: Thu, 11 Jul 1996 11:11:19 -0400
From: "Sexton, Robert" <sextonr.crestvie@squared.com>
Organization: Square D
To: freebsd-hackers@freefall.FreeBSD.org
Subject: Kernel Config (Was: GENERIC Kernel Debate)
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Is it possible for us to get away from the use of compilers in kernel 
config?  I come from the SCO world, and we have a nice mechanism for 
adding and removing devices without recompiling the kernel.  It does have 
to be relinked, but that's a much smaller job.  I'm actually 
oversimplifying a little.  SCO (And AT&T, I think) use a table-driven 
method for deciding what to link in, and then compile a few small 
binaries which contain tuning parameters.  For turnkey systems, they 
supply a small, primitive compiler for the job.  
	I have touched a few Linux systems, and I'm getting used to the Berkely 
style kernel config mechanism.  I think it's easier to find source code 
on the BSD kernel system, but ease of configuration leaves a lot to be 
desired.  I don't think make is really a suitable tool for kernel config. 

	I think we all ultimately want the all-singing, all-dancing loadable 
kernel modules with PnP detection and auto config of devices while 
simultaneously selecting proper drivers for compatible hardware while 
working around all known incompatibilites. 
	In the mean time, how about a better way to build a custom kernel, or 
tune an existing kernel?

	Robert Sexton.