Tiny Core Linux

Tiny Core Base => Raspberry Pi => Topic started by: cosminbro on January 24, 2023, 01:20:38 AM

Title: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 24, 2023, 01:20:38 AM
How can I use the latest stable linux kernel from kernel.org, for piCore 64 ?
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Juanito on January 24, 2023, 02:16:42 AM
The latest stable kernel for kernel.org is 6.1.x

The latest stable kernel for the Pi OS is 5.15.x

As per the RPi forums, there are still many issues with 6.1.x for RPi.

@bmarkus and @paul_123 can confirm, but I understand they are using the Pi OS kernel.

The above notwithstanding, I believe you can compile the kernel for piCore64 using "make ARCH=arm64 bcm2711_defconfig"
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: patrikg on January 24, 2023, 02:18:04 AM
I think picore is based on raspberrypi os kernel source.
Not the mainline kernel source.

I think also if you want to compile your own latest mainline kernel, you should take a look at BuildRoot, i think BuildRoot using the mainline kernel source, maybe there also so behind the latest kernel version i don't know.

I could be wrong.

https://buildroot.org/
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 24, 2023, 10:17:56 AM
Ok,I manage to compile the last kernel from Raspberry OS repository

Now, when I try to boot, it says: modprobe: can't change directory to '5.15.89-v8+'

Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Paul_123 on January 24, 2023, 02:35:26 PM
Building a new kernel and remastering the image is quite technical.

As a quick test, you can download the kernel and modules direct from https://github.com/raspberrypi/firmware/tree/next/boot

But you will have to package your initrd, and all of the module extension..... figuring out what you need in the initrd, and what can be in an extension is where the expertise is needed to keep the images small.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: bmarkus on January 24, 2023, 08:23:20 PM
For 32-bit version of piCore now I'm using the stock RPi OS kernel, not a dedicated one as before. It has all option enabled by default we needed.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 25, 2023, 03:11:29 AM
Building a new kernel and remastering the image is quite technical.

As a quick test, you can download the kernel and modules direct from https://github.com/raspberrypi/firmware/tree/next/boot

But you will have to package your initrd, and all of the module extension..... figuring out what you need in the initrd, and what can be in an extension is where the expertise is needed to keep the images small.

thanks

I see that in boot partition for piCore 64 13.1 is the archive rootfs-piCore64-13.1.gz. It will work on the new version (6.18) or should be use another?
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Juanito on January 25, 2023, 04:49:31 AM
You would need to create alternatives to kernel51077v8.img and modules-5.10.77-piCore-v8.gz and would probably need to create a new /lib/modules/$KERNEL folder in rootfs-piCore64-13.1.gz
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 25, 2023, 04:58:48 AM
You would need to create alternatives to kernel51077v8.img and modules-5.10.77-piCore-v8.gz and would probably need to create a new /lib/modules/$KERNEL folder in rootfs-piCore64-13.1.gz

I already do so, but at boot it says modprobe: can't find folder
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Juanito on January 25, 2023, 05:34:29 AM
Did you run depmod -a in the new modules directory?
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 25, 2023, 06:14:53 AM
Did you run depmod -a in the new modules directory?

No,

I use kubuntu with 5.10.15.0-58 generic kernel. If I run depmod -a in modules directory, nothing is changed there...
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Juanito on January 25, 2023, 06:35:36 AM
I'm speaking of your replacement for modules-5.10.77-piCore-v8.gz

Assuming you unpacked it in /tmp/extract, you need something analogous to this:
Code: [Select]
sudo rm /tmp/extract/lib/modules/4.19.10-tinycore/kernel.tclocal
sudo depmod -a -b /tmp/extract 4.19.10-tinycore
cd /tmp/extract/lib/modules/4.19.10-tinycore
sudo rm modules.symbols
sudo ln -s /usr/local/lib/modules/4.19.10-tinycore/kernel/ kernel.tclocal
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 25, 2023, 08:52:05 AM
The last line of code points to /usr/local/lib/modules/ but it’s the folder from my local ubuntu, there is no modules folder here
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Juanito on January 25, 2023, 09:31:40 AM
Once your new initrd boots, it will be present there.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 25, 2023, 10:07:24 AM
Once your new initrd boots, it will be present there.

I think it's a missunderstanding here :)

I boot using kubuntu 64 bit on a PC, and I do cross compile kernel for rpi.

I don't boot on rpi device
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Juanito on January 25, 2023, 10:38:10 PM
So why are you compiling the RPi kernel?
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 25, 2023, 11:32:40 PM
So why are you compiling the RPi kernel?

Because I want the last linux kernel. I saw there are more drivers included, especially for wireless lan adapters.

For the moment it seems the main problem is with modules archive. How can I compile a modules archive similar to this http://tinycorelinux.net/13.x/aarch64/releases/RPi/src/kernel/modules-5.10.77-piCore-v8.tar.xz (http://tinycorelinux.net/13.x/aarch64/releases/RPi/src/kernel/modules-5.10.77-piCore-v8.tar.xz), for another linux kernel version?
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Juanito on January 26, 2023, 12:39:32 AM
The modules archive is not the main issue.

If you wish to update the kernel for piCore64-13.1, you will need to replace kernel51077v8.img and modules-5.10.77-piCore-v8.gz and modify rootfs-piCore64-13.1.gz
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 26, 2023, 01:16:35 AM
The modules archive is not the main issue.

If you wish to update the kernel for piCore64-13.1, you will need to replace kernel51077v8.img and modules-5.10.77-piCore-v8.gz and modify rootfs-piCore64-13.1.gz

I manage to replace kernel, but no modules-5.10.77-piCore-v8.gz
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 26, 2023, 01:18:59 AM
Modules need to be compiled for the new kernel, how can I do this?
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Juanito on January 26, 2023, 02:23:14 AM
The modules are at: https://github.com/raspberrypi/firmware/tree/next/modules/6.1.8-v8%2B
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 26, 2023, 03:44:39 AM
The modules are at: https://github.com/raspberrypi/firmware/tree/next/modules/6.1.8-v8%2B

I do this and at boot it gave me the error message: modprobe: can’t change to folder 6.1.8-v8+
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Paul_123 on January 26, 2023, 08:01:08 AM
Then you are not constructing your initrd files correctly.

piCore we use 2 initrd files that are concatonated together by the RPI firmware.

Here are a couple of old threads that show the basic process of replacing the kernel modules and reconstructing the initrd.

http://forum.tinycorelinux.net/index.php/topic,14634.msg89051.html#msg89051
http://forum.tinycorelinux.net/index.php/topic,14634.msg88856.html#msg88856

Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: cosminbro on January 26, 2023, 09:03:46 AM
Thanks, I manage to boot to 6.1.8 arm64 linux kernel, starting from rootfs file from arm64 picore 13.0

LAN network is working, it seems to load all modules.

Now, another problem, when I try to install tcz modules, some worked, some are compiled for specific kernel from 13.x distribution and doesn't work -> they need modulename6.1.8v8+.tcz modules

Can I use the current tcz from last tiny linux repo, download to local and rename to match the new required name, or it must be compiled against new 6.1.8 kernel?
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Paul_123 on January 26, 2023, 06:44:11 PM
You need to recreate the extensions with modules from the same kernel version.  Assuming you downloaded the precompiled kernel from raspberry pi, just use those same modules to build the extensions.


Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: elcouz on March 24, 2023, 07:37:26 AM
cosminbro, I am in the same state as you for the wireless adapter. I need 802.11ac for the deployment, MT7610u is the only one I know supported with kernel 5.10.77.
I wish Picore was on 6.12 as it support now Realtek ones but as the other stated it seems not stable.

Were you able to switch to the new kernel? I like doing programming and some linux configuration but this is kind out of my league.

If not I am patiently waiting for Picore 14.0 on kernel 6.12  ;D


Thanks

Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: curaga on March 24, 2023, 08:47:55 AM
https://wireless.wiki.kernel.org/en/users/drivers/ath10k

Why not use Atheros stuff? They're generally good quality, and that says it was in well before 5.10.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: elcouz on March 24, 2023, 10:19:24 AM
https://wireless.wiki.kernel.org/en/users/drivers/ath10k

Why not use Atheros stuff? They're generally good quality, and that says it was in well before 5.10.

They are hard to find ... AP are 802.11ac only, if it was possible with 2.4ghz (n) I wouldn't even write here. Internal Pi Broadcom wireless would be the best choice driver wise for support but it is too weak to use in an industrial environment.

EDIT: I've check there is limited to none USB support for ath10k driver.

I had some good driver success with Linksys AE6000 ac adapter (MT7610u) but range is not enough. (Getting unstable 6 mbit connection on 802.11ac with tons of dropped packets)


Also I noticed wifi.sh does not work with too many APs. With more than 1000's SSID on my work site to list,  it goes out of bound.  But that is an extreme case ;D



Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Paul_123 on March 24, 2023, 01:16:13 PM
I wouldn't hold my breath for the realtek junk, The only drivers that seem to work, are out of tree, and I'm not going to go down that rabbit hole.

The mediatek product/drivers are pretty stable.

We are working on piCore64/14 but it will still be a bit.  I don't start doing kernel work, until raspberry pi switches their branches.  Which they have done in the last couple of weeks.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: elcouz on March 25, 2023, 07:07:14 AM
I wouldn't hold my breath for the realtek junk, The only drivers that seem to work, are out of tree, and I'm not going to go down that rabbit hole.

The mediatek product/drivers are pretty stable.

We are working on piCore64/14 but it will still be a bit.  I don't start doing kernel work, until raspberry pi switches their branches.  Which they have done in the last couple of weeks.

I fully agree with you Paul, but the lack of choice is really tough. I bought 5 wifi adapter on amazon only to find out all of them are Realtek ones. This is really a gamble as 99% don't bother to disclose what is the chipset inside. There is only little choice for the MT7610u.

I know this is the fault of Realtek to not give a damn about Linux but if it is a pain for us that can work with Tinycore imagine for a simple end user to figure out most things he buys don't work with Linux.

So far what I've found on MT7610u
-Linksys AE6000 perfectly works in a house environment , signal strength suffer in noisy/crowded environment [Available in Canada]
-Panda Wireless PAU0B [Not available in Canada] I'll try to import but it is triple the price 60USD
-Alfa Wireless AWUS036ACHM [Not available in Canada] Cost prohibitive 100USD to import
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: curaga on March 25, 2023, 09:52:47 AM
If you have range issues, but mediatek otherwise works well, why not pick a model that allows an external antenna? Then you can use whatever antenna gives good enough reception.

edit: based on this page https://wikidevi.wi-cat.ru/MediaTek_MT7610U the TP-link Archer T2UH could work? It's on amazon for a bit over 20, so should be available to Canada too.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: elcouz on March 25, 2023, 10:48:44 AM
If you have range issues, but mediatek otherwise works well, why not pick a model that allows an external antenna? Then you can use whatever antenna gives good enough reception.

edit: based on this page https://wikidevi.wi-cat.ru/MediaTek_MT7610U the TP-link Archer T2UH could work? It's on amazon for a bit over 20, so should be available to Canada too.

Thanks for the suggestion

(https://i.postimg.cc/RCstrgvP/image.png)

Hmm that doesn't look good for the restocking.

(https://i.postimg.cc/4NfWPLBB/image.png)


Maybe the true real way to go was Compute Board (External wifi possible) but these CM module are impossible to find as well. Unicorns!  :D
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Rich on March 25, 2023, 11:53:54 AM
Hi elcouz
Googling on this returned a lot of results:
usb wifi dongle with external antenna
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: elcouz on March 25, 2023, 01:22:55 PM
Hi elcouz
Googling on this returned a lot of results:
usb wifi dongle with external antenna

That is not the problem, it's finding the ones that have in-kernel driver support with picore 5.10.77. There is a way to do out of branch drivers for the Raspberry Pi but they target Debian, TinyCore is a different beast.

I prefer to wait for kernel 6.2 on picore as it is very tricky.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Paul_123 on March 27, 2023, 07:33:02 AM
The next LTS kernel is 6.1.y   That is what RaspiOS is switching soon, and will be the basis for piCore64 14.x
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: elcouz on March 29, 2023, 07:57:22 AM
The next LTS kernel is 6.1.y   That is what RaspiOS is switching soon, and will be the basis for piCore64 14.x

I can't wait for piCore64 14.x  8)

I know I am dreaming but for piCore64 to have a package for PREEMPT patched kernel would be nice. I see more use for raspberry pi than x86 PC's with PREEMPT.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Paul_123 on March 29, 2023, 09:33:19 AM
lol.  I used to maintain a RT kernel, for the RPI, but it became too much work.   If keeping up with the patches was not enough, there were too many opinions as to how to configure the kernel.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: Rich on March 29, 2023, 10:40:26 AM
Hi elcouz
Would this work for you:
https://www.amazon.com/wireless-USB-WiFi-Adapter-PC/dp/B07P5PRK7J?th=1

Quote
Buy new:
$16.99
No Import Fees Deposit & $11.07 Shipping to Canada Details
Delivery Tuesday, April 11. Order within 5 hrs 6 mins
Or fastest delivery Monday, April 3
Deliver to Canada
In Stock
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: curaga on March 29, 2023, 10:43:45 PM
That one is a Realtek, according to the wikidev link above?
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: curaga on March 29, 2023, 10:55:59 PM
For the T2UH there seems to be decent stock in Germany on Ebay, new ones for 12.60 eur/pc, but they don't ship to Canada. If you have someone in Europe who could forward it, it may work out well even with importing taxes etc. I don't know if forwarding services exist for EU, could be, I've just heard about US and Japan for those.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: elcouz on March 30, 2023, 03:33:59 AM
lol.  I used to maintain a RT kernel, for the RPI, but it became too much work.   If keeping up with the patches was not enough, there were too many opinions as to how to configure the kernel.

Oh well, not a big deal. piCore is already nice on its own. Keep up the good work guys! :)

For the T2UH there seems to be decent stock in Germany on Ebay, new ones for 12.60 eur/pc, but they don't ship to Canada. If you have someone in Europe who could forward it, it may work out well even with importing taxes etc. I don't know if forwarding services exist for EU, could be, I've just heard about US and Japan for those.

Thanks, I am evaluating the best option with the network team, that is , to install wiring in that area.
Title: Re: Use the last linux kernel on piCore arm64
Post by: elcouz on April 17, 2023, 05:18:34 PM
Just an update,

I was finally able to source many T2UH from ebay.

Thank you to all, it is working perfectly!

Cheers!