Power & Source of Big Ideas

I have recompiled the kernel (from FriendlyArm github) and installed based on information from various internet resources.

I am unsuccessful. The old kernel resumes.

Does anyone have any information on how to upgrade the kernel, dtb, and modules on the NanoPi R5S?
Looking for support on how to enable UARTS on the R5S.

Not looking for the consol login, but the low level UARTs for talking to peripherals.

I am probably overlooking documentation, any help would be appreciated.