[gentoo-user] Re: Safe way to test a new kernel?

[James <wireless@tampabay.rr.com>]

Grant <emailgrant <at> gmail.com> writes:


> I need to test a kernel config change on a remote system.  Is there a
> safe way to do this?  The fallback thing in grub has never worked for
> me.  When does that ever work?

Grant,
If you have more than one system there, you can set the system to use
the serial port as a console. Then run a serial cable into the second 
system  and ssh into it to watch the boot process. Getting the keyboard
to work correctly via the ssh --> console-over-serial-port can be
tricky so it's best to set it up before you deploy remote hardware.

Also, I have used a cheap ebedded linux system when the second system
is not available.  Years ago, I even built a "reboot box"; it was
an embedded system with 4 relays and a 2 serial ports connected to different
system. I could physically remotely toggle the power. Several companies
build these devices, but, I have not used one in years.

Here is a google example I just found (never used this product)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9odA7LH91c

Just find a cheap embedded linux board with a 3-5 VAC(120). 


hth,
James