[SLL] make config - too many questions

[Mathew D. Watson]

I tried building the 2.6.29 kernel that I got from Linus' git 
repository, and 'make config' asked me _way_ to many questions. I ended 
up holding down the return key for a minute or two to accept the default 
choices. Even if I had the patience to read and answer them all, I 
wouldn't have a clue as to what the right answer is for most of them. 
The kernel was compiling as I left for work, so I'm guessing  whatever I 
asked for is OK.

What I would like to do is start out with a known to work configuration. 
For example, whatever was used to make the ubuntu 8.10 kernel that my 
machine is running. Then I can make my changes as needed.

I also tried running 'make gconfig', but it complained that some 
packages were missing, and I wasn't able to find them quickly using 
synaptic. Apparently the graphical interface let's you go forward and 
back to answer questions, but I don't think it solves the problem of 
creating a known good configuration.

Any suggestions?

FWIW, I am reading Corbet's "Linux Device Drivers", and it says I need 
to configure and build a kernel before I can work on loadable modules 
(which I want to learn about).

Mat