Real-world Embedded Linux Programming

Embedded Linux is a Linux embedded operating system used in cell phones, personal digital assistants, media player handsets and other consumer electronics devices. In the past, embedded development was mostly performed using proprietary software coded in assembler. Developers had to write all of the hardware device drivers and interfaces from scratch. It appeared that the Linux kernel, combined with a small set of free software utilities could be fit into the confines of an embedded devices limited hardware. A typical installation of embedded Linux may require about 2 megabytes of system memory.

In this project we’ll work with various hardwares such as the Picotux (world smallest computer running Linux), NSLU2, Nokia 770, etc. We’ll use the successful embedded Linux distributions and toolkits to interact with these devices.

Goals

• TinyOS compatible serial communication protocol.

Benefits

• Becoming familiar with embedded device development challenges.
• Practical experience in developing real world system applications.
• Becoming familiar with Wireless Sensor Networks.
• Working in an interactive research environment.
• Gaining experience in distributed (networked) systems.

Prerequisites

• Advanced level experience in using Linux.
• Good C skills.
• Good Java skills.
• Being interested to learn new libraries.