gencmn - Linux

Overview

gencmn is a tool used for generating common code and files for the Linux kernel. It facilitates the creation of files like Makefile, Kconfig, and initialization code for new kernel modules.

Syntax

gencmn [options] <target>

Options/Flags

• -m, –module-name: Specify the module name.
• -v, –verbose: Enable verbose output.
• -o, –output-dir: Set the output directory for generated files.
• -f, –force-overwrite: Overwrite existing files without confirmation.
• -h, –help: Display usage information.

Examples

Simple usage:

Create a new kernel module named "mymodule":

gencmn -m mymodule

Specifying output directory:

Generate files in a custom directory:

gencmn -m mymodule -o /path/to/mydir

Overwriting existing files:

Force overwriting any existing files:

gencmn -m mymodule -f

Common Issues

Incorrect module name:

If the module name is not valid or conflicts with existing modules, gencmn will report an error.

Missing dependencies:

Required dependencies like the kernel source package must be installed before using gencmn.

Solution:

• Ensure the module name conforms to kernel naming conventions.
• Install necessary dependencies using the appropriate package manager.

Integration

with Kconfig:

Gencmn can generate Kconfig files for kernel modules:

gencmn -m mymodule --kconfig

with Makefile:

It can also create Makefile fragments:

gencmn -m mymodule --makefile

Related Commands

• make: Build code using makefiles.
• modprobe: Insert and remove kernel modules.
• kconfig: Kernel configuration tool.
• Kernel documentation: Official Linux kernel documentation.