23 Second Kernel Compiles

b-side.org writes "As a fine testament to how quickly linux is absorbing technology formerly available only to the computing elite, an LKML member posted a 23 second kernel compile time to the list this morning as a result of building a 16-way NUMA cluster. The NUMA technology comes gifted from IBM and SGI. Just one year ago, a Sequent NUMA-Q would have cost you about USD $100,000. These days, you can probably build a 16-way Xeon (4X 4-way SMP) system off of ebay for two grand, and the NUMA comes free of charge!"

Comments

Long compile tricks

[LinuxHam]

While I may not recall my first kernel compile (late 96 or early 97), I wanted to share a small kernel compile trick. When compiling on my P75's, I usually

nice -n -20 screen
make dep clean bzImage modules modules_install ; echo "Kernel done" | Mail myname@skytel.com

I started doing that in '98 when compiling on a 486 I commandeered in the server room. Saves you from doing "are we there yet?" with your box. Also lets me know when I need to head home from running my errands or eat a little faster at the dinner table. :)