ext3 fs: no userspace writes == no disk writes ?

Rob van Nieuwkerk
2002-09-19T22:29:22Z

Hi all,

I have a question about ext3 write activity.

I am considering using an ext3 fs on a CompactFlash disk for my
data-logging application (power can disapear anytime).
The quantity & frequency of the data logged itself is not a
problem at all considering flash wear.

But I'm a bit worried about the kernel/ext3 doing regular writes
by itself even when there are no userspace writes. (worries are
partially caused by memories from long time ago about idle laptop
doing regular writes on disk).

Anybody out there who knows how this works ?

Can I use an ext3 fs without having regular "automatic" writes to
the device it is located on ? (and thus not destroy my CompactFlash
devices !)

greetings,
Rob van Nieuwkerk

PS1: of course nothing from userspace should write frequently to
the fs, and if there is regular read-activity the fs should
be mounted with "noatime")

PS2: yes, I know that jffs exists