Linux Kernel SAR Driver Marked Orphaned Following Intel Departure
A Linux kernel developer has flagged the BIOS SAR INT1092 driver as orphaned due to its sole maintainer leaving Intel. This decision impacts the dynamic regulation of radiofrequency radiation exposure on devices using the hardware.
The Linux kernel's driver for Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) monitoring has been marked as orphaned, signaling a halt in active development by Intel. Developer Dave Hansen submitted patches to designate the BIOS SAR INT1092 driver as abandoned because its only dedicated maintainer has departed the company, and no internal replacement has been found.
SAR measures the rate at which the human body absorbs radiofrequency radiation. This particular driver supports M.2 WWAN cellular modems with hardware ID INTC1092. It leverages BIOS-provided SAR data and ACPI sensors to dynamically adjust radiofrequency transmission power, aiming to keep user exposure within safe limits.
Introduced into the Linux kernel mainline with version 5.15 in 2021, the driver code will remain available for users of the associated hardware. However, Intel will no longer provide updates, bug fixes, or compatibility support. The company's earlier exit from the cellular modem business is cited as a significant factor in this maintenance discontinuation.
For Linux users with laptops equipped with Intel M.2 WWAN modules, the orphaned driver could lead to compatibility issues with future kernel upgrades. The loss of active maintenance means the RF radiation dynamic regulation function may degrade, potentially increasing uncontrolled exposure levels.