EDE - 0.0.5

["Neil Holmes" <neil.holmes@zoom.co.uk>]

The Elks Distribution Edition (EDE) 0.0.5 is now ready. Though its not
uploaded yet. Its been so long since I used my ftp space that, I believe, my
password has expired !!! I have requested a new password but, in the
meantime, if anyone particularly would like a copy now then email me and I
will make interim arrangements.

Apologies for the very long delay in release. Its been difficult to spend
time working on it recently for a variety of reasons.

EDE-0.0.5 installs kernel 0.1.1. It also installs from a single floppy disk
once more. Thanks to Harry for his assistance with "rdev" in making this
possible. 0.0.5 will cater for ELKS installation on a primary hard drive
(bda1 through bda4) and can cope with dual-booting using Pascal Bellards
Bootkit. The operating systems that are recognised for co-existance, at this
stage, are DOS and Linux. I have tested for partitions containing all 3 on
one 486 laptop. My test 286 machine dual-boots ELKS and Windows 3.1 (DOS).

I have, for 0.0.5, also upgraded the version of elkscmd programs. I have
taken what was the latest download on sourceforge, namely elkscmd_20020501,
at the time I was building the release.

I have some concerns, still, for the filesystem experts. The install floppy
still boots an older kernel (0.0.82) even though it, ultimately, installs
0.1.1 to the hard drive. This is because I find that kernel more reliable
when it comes to setting up the ELKS partition. I would be very greatful of
some assistance in this area as I am still recommending the hard drive be
initialised using a DOS fdisk for the most reliable results. Apart from
anything else this means that I have to carry two kernels on the install
floppy disk taking up valuable space. Suggestions are greatfully received !

So thats 0.0.5. What next ? I am very open for suggestions as to what I
should be including next. Please email suggestions. Here are some ideas :-

- Install to a secondary hard drive (/dev/bdb1 though /dev/bdb4 - shouldn't
be too difficult)
- Introduce an option to implement elksnet
- Look for cosmetic improvements in the installation

As you can see. I am starting to fish for ideas.

Thanks to all the people who have taken the time to write to me and express
their gratitude for EDE. It makes it all worth while. Maybe it really has
helped convert a few more people to the cause ?

Anyway.

Have fun !

Neil