Ubuntu Stability

[Martin Schmitz]

Vincent Trouilliez wrote:
>> If memtest shows errors you can assume that your memory is defect, but I
>> wouldn't trust it the other way round. Try compiling a kernel 
> 
> Unless I find a "HowTo compile a Kernel" for dummies, I am afraid I am
> nowhere near knowledgeable enough to even remotely consider embaking in
> such an adventure ! ;o)

HowTo compile a kernel for the purpose of testing memory and cpu
================================================================

1.) open a terminal and type the lines below each one followed by ENTER
2.) sudo su - (followed by your password)
3.) apt-get install linux-source-2.6.8.1 build-essential kernel-package
4.) cd /usr/src
5.) tar xjf linux-source-2.6.8.1.tar.bz2
6.) cd linux-source-2.6.8.1
7.) cp /boot/config-2.6.8.1* .config
8.) make -j bzImage
9.) If it's done (you see your prompt again) send us the last 20 or so
    lines of output.

Your computer probably won't be able to do anything while this is
running. Don't even try to move your mouse pointer, it won't work. This
is ok.

>> with 'make -j bzimage'. If you get a signal 11 error your memory is defect. If not,
>> it's likely not.
> 
> What does this command do that a 7 hour dedicated memory test program
> couldn't catch ? :-/

It starts lots of instances of your compiler and makes very havy use of
your memory and cpu. If there is anything wrong with your memory or cpu
it very likely will fail.

> Is there a program to test the CPU, like there is one to test the
> memory ??

Of course. Look at the HowTo above. ;-)

Martin