[mythtv-users] Nvidia open-sources Linux kernel GPU modules*

[Gary Buhrmaster]

On Thu, May 12, 2022 at 3:53 AM Ian Cameron <mkbloke at gmail.com> wrote:

> https://developer.nvidia.com/blog/nvidia-releases-open-source-gpu-kernel-modules/

While this initial open sourcing of the kernel modules
is a useful and necessary step along the way to
eventually bringing nvidia drivers into the mainline
kernel (and supporting secure boot), there is still
a way to go before that happens (right now, for
example, the code is not considered mainline kernel
ready(*)(**)).  And, of course, this initial code drop
is for turing or newer cards only (not as common in
pure HTPC deployments)(****).

This initial release is primarily targeting the enterprise
DC/AI/ML workloads (where the *real* money is),
and for those bleeding edgers who are willing to
lose some blood.

Overall, good news in the long run, but do curb
your enthusiasm about quick integration for
"consumer" solutions.

Gary

(*) Reasons include the ABI/API is not sufficiently
stable (so the userspace version is tied to the
in-kernel driver version), and the usual coding
standard discussions, and there is no open source
userspace which is a requirement(***).

(**) Nvidia has said they will be working towards
that over the next months, but it will take time.

(***) Nvidia still only releases binary user space,
although nouveau user space may end up adapting,
or nvidia user space might end up being opened
(still a work in progress).

(****) Whether nvidia or others (nouveau?) will
desire, and be able, to add in support for older
cards is not known at this point.