Re: linux driver compatibility

From: Joel Reicher (joel_at_panacea.null.org)
Date: 11/15/05

  • Next message: Donna Troy: "Re: linux driver compatibility" 
    Date: Tue, 15 Nov 2005 04:22:56 GMT

    "Donna Troy" <l4dyA.D.A@gmail.com> writes:

    > I just bought a new computer, and I've never had to install new drivers
    > with my old ones, so I'm very new at this. If I install linux drivers
    > for XFree86 for my VIA KN400 video card, will I need to run the linux
    > emulation layer for them to function? If so, is it any different from
    > running the layer for an application? Is there a specific command for
    > installing new drivers?

    XFree86 drivers aren't really drivers in the OS sense. If you're
    getting messages as the kernel and everything else boots up, NetBSD is
    handling your video card just fine.

    Getting XFree86 to do the right thing with your card is a slightly
    different matter. XFree86 is included in the NetBSD distribution these
    days, and it's probably better not to install a new one separately. If
    you want a newer version, upgrade the whole system.

    The docs are in /usr/X11R6/lib/X11/doc and if you look in RELNOTES
    you'll find the following advice...

    XFree86 comes with a graphical configuration tool called "xf86cfg", which
    also has a text mode interface and can be used to create an initial configu-
    ration file. It can also be used to customise existing configurations.

    Next in the order of configuration preferences is to use the XFree86 server's
    ability to create a starting configuration file. Run as root:

         XFree86 -configure

    and follow the instructions.

    Finally, if all else fails, the trusty old standby text-based tool "xf86con-
    fig" can also be used for generating X server config files.

    HTH.

    Cheers,

            - Joel

  • Next message: Donna Troy: "Re: linux driver compatibility"

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