Kernel question how to get SMP (symetric multi processer) support?

[MovingTarget]

i am some what confused here.

i have a duel cpu system
(2x 800mhz)

however i will have to compile a new kernel??? to get the most out of my multi cpu system??

if somebody could give me the low down on this that would be great

i am reading the nhf's,linux howto's and infomation at kernel.org but i would still like your input aswell
thanx in advance http://www.linuxnewbie.org/ubb/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by MovingTarget (edited 30 November 2000).]

[Mountainman]

depends on what flavor your running I guess. I did an expert install of mandrake 6.1 and it specifically asked if I wanted SMP support. Might try that...

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[Craig McPherson]

Yes, smp support has to be compiled into your kernel for smp to work on the system. It might already be compiled into your kernel, I think there's a file in /proc you can check, but everyone should recompile their kernel anyway so it's not a big issue.

I'm sure there's an NHF on it, if not, there are HOWTOs that are pretty straightforward. Be sure to select "SMP support" - it's one of the options in one of the first sections.

Post back if you have any problems.

[Craig McPherson]

Actually, yes, I remember how you can easily check to see if your kernel is running smp.

Just run the "top" program. If the various processor usages add up to 100%, you're using a uniprocessor kernel. If they add up to 200%, you're using both CPUs. If you have four CPUs operating, I suppose it would add up to 400%, and so on.

[MovingTarget]

well i checked my sys info i am uni cpu right now. no biggy i been studying and feel i am ready to compile smp into the kernel

linux user for 5 days and counting

I LOVE IT I AM ADDICTED ALREADY

virtual desktops (i got 8 now)
x running at 1280X1024
lilo installed and configured
rapidly becoming used to the CL ( that lil bugger is powerful) and a god send
in the past 5 days i jumped in to linux

my distro of choice was slackware 7.1
thanx to the info spread through out the net i have learned
how to install and configure slackware with extreme ease
how to install X and configure it
how to build/compile a kernel
and the command line

never in my life have i been so happy with my computer
i love the fact if its broke there aint nothing stoping you from fixing it
now i am just learning the rest of the basic's and then i will start to learn the advanced stuff and also C and beowolf networking http://www.linuxnewbie.org/ubb/smile.gif

i owe it all to the great help here on the board the authors of the many many nhf's howto's with out it i wouldnt be as far into it as i am
id probly be wondering why the hell it wont even install and would have walked away thinking "****y os" but nope so much help and support has allowed me to see

LINUX ROCKS!!!!! nuff said http://www.linuxnewbie.org/ubb/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by MovingTarget (edited 30 November 2000).]

[ph34r]

There may be a smp kernel on your Slack cd already... but learning how to recompile a kernel for your needs is a Good Thing anyway.