Hello,
Can anyone explain in a clear way, how linux deals with
portability across architectures. The main points I'm getting confused
are:
- Does a single linux kernel support processors of varying size? I
mean, will the same linux kernel give me the ability to compile it for
various sized processors[8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit, 64-bit]? If so, how
does it deal with the datatypes consistently? And how does it provide
a unified layer to applications that use processor specific
functionality? Also, how does it manupilate datatypes that the
processor does not inherently support. For example, if I am able to
compile for a 16-bit processor, how does it support the uint32
datatype used in other areas of the kernel [addition, subtraction,
byte ordering]?
- Does the Linux kernel implement "Protected Mode" and other kinds
of features also in other architectures that do not support them? If
so, how? If not, how is it made possible that one feature is present
in one compilation and is not present in another? How does this effect
the other areas of the kernel that depend on this features?
Thanks in advance. If possible please send me your replies to
[email protected]. The digests I get fill my inbox!
Bhaktavatsalam Nallanthighal
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