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Introduction to Embedded Linux

Course outline

2 days
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Duration

Introduction to Embedded Linux

2 days

Overview

While Linux started as a PC-based operating system, it has gradually conquered the realm of embedded systems. Today, Linux is the predominant OS used inside various embedded products from wireless routers through to smart-phones. Therefore, it is crucial to develop an understanding of this viral operating system that has successfully conquered the rest.

Course highlight

Participants will have practical experience building, installing, configuring and running Linux on an embedded systems. Participants will gain an appreciation for the advantages and disadvantages of using Linux in an embedded system.

What You Will Learn

This course concentrates on the theoretical and practical knowledge to allow participants to achieve the following learning outcomes. Upon completing the course, participants would be able to:

  • Appreciate Linux's position in the embedded systems world
  • Know the pros, cons, limitations and requirements of various Embedded Linux flavours
  • Customize the kernel to tailor to one's need and constraints
  • Understand and customize the booting and intialisation process
  • Familiarise with the basic and alternative system software/utilities
  • Build cross-platform applications in C

Who Should Attend

This course is particularly suited for design engineers, application engineers, systems engineers, software engineers and programmers responsible for designing, implementing and running embedded Linux systems.

Prerequisites

Participants must have some C programming experience (PC environment), and should have an understanding on Shell scripts and Makefiles.

Course Methodology

This course is presented in a workshop style with example-led lectures interlaced with demonstrations and hands-on practical for maximum understanding.

Course Outline

Introduction to Embedded Linux (EL)

  • Review EL flavours.
  • Pros and cons of using EL.
  • Requirements of using EL.

Custom Kernels

  • Understanding EL kernel build process.
  • Monolithic kernels.
  • Building own EL kernels.

First-stage Boot

  • Review FS boot-loaders
  • Understanding FS boot process.
  • Configuring kernel boot parameters.

Second-stage Kernel Boot

  • Understanding EL kernel boot process.
  • Understanding initrd.
  • Customising initrd scripts.

Root Filesystem

  • Understanding rootfs.
  • Configuring rootfs.

System Initialisation

  • Understanding EL initialisation.
  • SystemV and BSD styles.
  • Building own boot scripts.

System Software

  • Swiss army knife.
  • Basic system software/utilities.
  • Alternative utilities.

Standard C Libraries

  • Review on existing EL standard C libraries.
  • Understanding standard C libraries in EL.

Alternative Boot Process

  • Network boot.
  • Flash boot.

Discussion & Conclusion

Programme scope, delivery arrangements and suitability are confirmed during enquiry.