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Embedded Linux
This course teaches embedded Linux system development, focusing on configuring the Linux kernel and writing custom peripheral drivers. Students gain hands-on experience with Linux architecture, building embedded systems, and debugging and profiling applications. Ideal for aspiring embedded engineers, it addresses growing industry demand across consumer, automotive, and industrial applications.
Course Chapters
Introduction to Linux and Embedded Systems
Linux serves as a foundational open-source operating system widely adopted for embedded systems due to its flexibility, scalability, and robust performance. The chapter outlines the characteristics and components of embedded systems, highlights Linux's advantages, discusses real-time capabilities, and illustrates how it serves the Internet of Things (IoT) portfolio. Various specialized Linux distributions tailored for embedded applications are also explored.
Linux-based Embedded System Component Stack
The chapter covers the essential components of Linux-based embedded systems, detailing the layered architecture that includes the hardware layer, bootloader layer, kernel layer, middleware layer, and application layer. Each layer has distinct responsibilities that facilitate the overall functionality and communication within the embedded system stack, enabling efficient and real-time operations.
Anatomy of a Linux-based System
The chapter outlines the structural components of a Linux-based system, emphasizing the layered architecture that includes the hardware layer, bootloader, kernel, system libraries, system utilities, and user space. Each layer plays a pivotal role, facilitating efficient interaction between applications and hardware. Understanding these components and their functionalities is critical for effectively managing and optimizing Linux systems.
Configuration and Build Process
The configuration and build process is pivotal in developing and deploying Linux-based embedded systems. It encompasses selecting components, configuring them according to hardware requirements, and compiling them into an executable image. Effective utilization of tools such as Yocto and Buildroot streamlines this process, ensuring the final system is optimized for performance and resource constraints.
Linux Kernel Modules
Linux Kernel Modules are critical for extending the functionality of the Linux kernel without necessitating a reboot or recompilation. These modules enhance the kernel's capabilities to manage hardware, implement network protocols, and add support for various filesystems. This chapter covers the types of kernel modules, their architecture, loading and unloading commands, as well as potential issues encountered while working with them.
Communication Between Kernel and User Space
Clear communication between kernel and user space is vital for the efficiency and stability of Linux-based systems, particularly in embedded environments. This chapter discusses various mechanisms facilitating this communication, including system calls, device files, IOCTLs, shared memory, and signals. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developers engaged in system-level programming.
Application Demo: Building a Ranging Sensor Kernel Module
The chapter demonstrates the creation of a kernel module for a ranging sensor, specifically leveraging an ultrasonic sensor for distance measurement. Emphasizing the interaction with hardware GPIO pins, it guides through writing, compiling, and interfacing user-space applications with the sensor data through device files, showcasing practical kernel module development in Linux.
System Debugging and Profiling
Debugging and profiling are critical for maintaining efficient and functional embedded systems, particularly in Linux environments. This chapter discusses various techniques and tools for debugging and profiling, which help identify system issues and optimize performance. Key tools such as GDB, Valgrind, and perf are emphasized to guide developers in troubleshooting and enhancing system resources.