Creating a RAM Disk

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Environment

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11 Service Pack 2
SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 11 Service Pack 2

Situation

Want to create a RAM Disk.

Resolution

The RAM Disk is created when the "brd" module is loaded (brd=block ram disk)
modprobe brd

This has three parameters. If no parameters are used you get the defaults.
rd_nr : Maximum number of brd devices
rd_size : Size of each RAM disk in kbytes.
max_part : Maximum number of partitions per RAM disk

For example if you want one 1GB RAM Disk that can have two partitions you would use:
modprobe brd rd_size=1024000 max_part=2 rd_nr=1

The RAM Disk will then be in /dev/ram*
You can then partition it as needed up to the max number of partitions.
Then put a file system on it and mount it and your ready to use your RAM Disk.

Additional Information

The data put on a RAM disk is not persistent across reboots.

Disclaimer

This Support Knowledgebase provides a valuable tool for SUSE customers and parties interested in our products and solutions to acquire information, ideas and learn from one another. Materials are provided for informational, personal or non-commercial use within your organization and are presented "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND.