patching the kernel

Hello,

I'm using the latest version of uClinux (2.6.9 kernel). The project I'm working on requires the latest version of libata to be installed (this is a non-PCI version). I've been told that the best way to get this is to patch the entire kernel up to version 2.6.12-rc4.

I've never patched a kernel before, so I don't quite know what to expect in terms of:

- How much effort will this take (for one person, in days)?

- What is the process for patching the uClinux kernel in particular?

(ie. would I need to patch to 2.6.10, then 2.6.11, then finally 2.6.12-rc4?)

(ie. does the standard "patch" command suffice for the uClinux kernel?)

- What kind of difficulties should I expect (that are uClinux-specific)?

Also, if this endeavour is hopeless, futile, or otherwise extremely difficult, someone please speak up! http://forum.niosforum.com/work2/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif That&#39;d let me know I should try to find another way or something.

Thanks,

jwistead