linux kernel - can you rip it apart and put it back together!!

[bruce]

hi...

I'm looking to talk with someone/anyone, who really understands the linux
kernel, and what it takes to rip it apart, and put it back together!!!

Basically, I'd like to know what's involved with modifying the kernel,
stripping out extraneous functions/adding functions to modify the kernel for
my potential needs...

I'm considering a stand alone personal video recorder type of device,
combined with some additional functionality, and i'd like the system to be
linux based. And although I can initially function with a complete linux OS,
I will ultimately want to get to a point where I've
reduced/removed/simplified the OS as much as possible to only provide the
functionality that I need.

So.. If you have skills, or if you know where I can turn to get more
insight/information, I'd appreciate the pointers!

Thanks

Bruce Douglas
bedouglas at earthlink.net